Bernard's Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer

2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee

vs

2026 Ford Explorer
3.6L V6

Base Engine

2.3L EcoBoost®
21 inches

Largest Wheel Size

21 inches
6,200 pounds

Maximum Towing Capacity

5,000 pounds
84.6 cubic feet

Maximum Cargo Space

85.8 cubic feet
Available

Front Passenger Interactive Touchscreen Display

Not Available

Which Is Better: The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Explorer?

If you’re shopping for a capable, refined midsize SUV near Hudson, the Jeep® Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer are likely on your radar. Both are strong contenders, but when you compare them side by side, the Grand Cherokee consistently pulls ahead as the clear choice for drivers who demand premium styling, dominant performance, and next-generation cabin technology.

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What Are The Towing Specs For The Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer?

The towing specifications heavily favor the Jeep model, giving it a commanding lead for heavy-duty weekend tasks. The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a best-in-class maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, while the Ford Explorer falls short at 5,000 pounds. For those who plan to haul a boat, camper, or trailer on weekend getaways near Amery, that 1,200-pound advantage is impossible to ignore. When capability counts, the Grand Cherokee delivers.

Which SUV Offers Better Off-Road Performance: Grand Cherokee vs Explorer?

When comparing off-road performance, the Grand Cherokee is in a class of its own. While the Explorer can handle basic trails, it isn’t engineered to tackle tough terrain like the Jeep SUV. In addition to best-in-class ground clearance and a best-in-class departure angle, the Grand Cherokee offers the following advanced features to give it a decisive off-road edge:

  • Selec-Terrain® Management System: Automatically optimizes vehicle performance across five driving modes—Auto, Snow, Sport, Rock, and Mud/Sand—so you’re always in control no matter the conditions.
  • Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension System: Provides up to 4 inches of ride-height adjustment, letting you raise the vehicle for challenging terrain or lower it for easy entry and exit.
  • Three 4×4 Systems: Includes Quadra-Trac I®, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive® II system with an electronic limited-slip rear differential that delivers maximum traction when and where you need it most.

How Does The Design Of The Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer Compare?

The design of the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee makes a far more premium first impression on Minneapolis roads thanks to a bold midcycle refresh. Updates include an all-new, sleeker grille design that retains the iconic vertical slots while adding a more three-dimensional, sophisticated look. Redesigned front air intakes and updated lighting elements round out the exterior refresh, giving the Grand Cherokee a highly modern, premium presence inside and out that looks sharper than the Ford Explorer.

What Tech Features Stand Out In The Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer?

When it comes to in-cabin technology, the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee once again raises the bar above its competition. The Grand Cherokee offers a class-exclusive Front Passenger Interactive Touchscreen Display, giving the front passenger their own screen to control entertainment, navigation, and more. Combined with a standard 12.3-inch infotainment system and available built-in navigation (no subscription required), the Grand Cherokee delivers a tech-forward experience that keeps everyone in the vehicle connected and entertained.

How Can You Test-Drive The Jeep Grand Cherokee In New Richmond?

You can test-drive the exceptional 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee by visiting our showroom or contacting the team at Bernard's Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today. We are here to help you explore trim levels and find the perfect match for your lifestyle. In the meantime, be sure to apply for financing online and get a trade-in estimate for your current vehicle. Don’t forget to check out our new vehicle specials as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee a better choice for towing than the Ford Explorer?

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the superior towing option because it delivers a best-in-class maximum towing capacity of up to 6,200 pounds. This provides a massive 1,200-pound advantage over the Ford Explorer, which maxes out at a standard 5,000 pounds.

What off-road advantages make the Grand Cherokee better than the Explorer?

The Grand Cherokee outclasses the Explorer on tough terrain by offering best-in-class ground clearance and a best-in-class departure angle. It also features exclusive off-road performance systems like the Selec-Terrain® Management System, Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension, and three available 4×4 configurations including an electronic limited-slip rear differential.

What exclusive technology does the Jeep Grand Cherokee offer over the Ford Explorer?

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee features a class-exclusive Front Passenger Interactive Touchscreen Display that gives the front passenger dedicated control over entertainment and navigation. It also includes a generous 12.3-inch infotainment system and available subscription-free built-in navigation, outmatching the standard tech available in the Explorer.

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