The Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee both trace their lineage back to the early 1990s. Since then, both nameplates have evolved into modern, high-tech family haulers that can seat up to seven. While every Ford Explorer has 3-row seating, it’s the Jeep Grand Cherokee L that adds the extra seats. A 2-row Grand Cherokee is also available, but for our purposes, we’re specifically talking about the L variant in this comparison.
Ford and Jeep have been competing for the hearts and minds (and dollars) of American SUV shoppers for decades, so let’s see how their midsize 3-row options compare in 2025.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L takes what everyone loves about the Grand Cherokee, stretches it out, and adds a third row of seats. When it came out in 2021, it was Jeep’s first 3-row effort since the Commander was discontinued in 2010. We’re happy to report that Jeep got the 3-row SUV right this time.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L Highlights
Jeep capability: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L has multiple AWD systems available. Quadra-Trac I is great for all-season traction, Quadra-Trac II adds a two-speed transfer case and more drive modes, and the Quadra-Drive II system takes the capability up a notch with an electronic limited-slip rear differential. In other words, the Grand Cherokee L is one of the most off-road-ready SUVs in its class.
Luxurious upper trims: Step inside the Overland, Summit, or Summit Reserve trim of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and you may think you have just entered an expensive Range Rover. Luxurious options like Palermo massaging leather seats, a McIntosh audio system, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof make this Jeep a premium SUV without compromising on practicality or capability.
McIntosh audio: The aforementioned McIntosh premium audio system available in the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is quite simply one of the finest car audio systems we’ve ever tested, and the beautifully designed speaker grilles look both tasteful and expensive. If top-notch audio is a priority, this adds some appeal to the Grand Cherokee L.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Grand Cherokee L models for sale near you.
2025 Ford Explorer
For good reasons, the Ford Explorer is one of the most recognized and trusted names among midsize SUVs. In terms of dependability, it rides the reputational coattails of Ford trucks. The wide variety in its model range, from the sporty ST to the fancy Platinum, ensures there’s an Explorer for everyone.
Ford Explorer Highlights
Exciting turbo V6: A turbocharged V6 engine that’s standard in the Explorer ST and optional in the Platinum trim pumps out 400 horsepower, giving this Ford more driving excitement than most of its rivals, including the Grand Cherokee L.
BlueCruise: The Explorer’s available BlueCruise semi-autonomous driving system allows for relaxed, hands-free driving on more than 130,000 miles of North American highways.
More efficient base engine: The base engine of the Ford Explorer is a little more fuel-efficient than the sole engine in the Jeep Grand Cherokee L in both their respective two-wheel drive (2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Explorer models for sale near you.
Similarities
Both of these SUVs come standard with rear-wheel drive, which is uncommon in this class. Also, they both have standard 3-row seating and are available with all-wheel drive and powerful engines.
Pricing
New 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$41,030 |
$39,027 |
|||
$41,530 |
$39,503 |
|||
$45,635 |
$43,408 |
|||
$46,135 |
$43,883 |
|||
$46,900 |
$44,611 |
|||
$60,990 |
$58,013 |
|||
$62,555 |
$59,189 |
|||
$67,035 |
$63,428 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles and New 2025 Ford Explorer vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 2025 Ford Explorer | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.6-liter V6 | 2.3L turbo 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 293 hp @ 6,400 rpm | 300 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 257 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 310 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed | 10-speed |
| Fuel Economy | 19 city/26 hwy/21 combined mpg | 20 city/29 hwy/24 combined mpg |
| Also Available | AWD | AWD, 3.0L turbo V6 |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5-Star | 5-Star |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 121.7 inches | 119.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 204.9 inches | 198.8 inches |
| Width | 77.9 inches | 78.9 inches |
| Height | 71.5 inches | 70.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.3 feet | TBD |
| Headroom, 1st Row | 39.8 inches | 40.7 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 39.9 inches | 40.5 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 37.3 inches | 38.9 inches |
| Legroom, 1st Row | 41.3 inches | 43.0 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 39.4 inches | 39.0 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 30.3 inches | 32.2 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 1st Row | 59.2 inches | 61.8 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 58.0 inches | 61.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 51.9 inches | 54.6 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 17.2/46.9/84.6 cubic feet | 16.2/46.0/85.8 cubic feet |
Conclusion
The Ford Explorer’s lower starting price, better fuel economy, and slightly roomier interior make it the more practical and thrifty option among these two midsize SUVs. However, if you have the extra coin, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L flirts with luxury SUV territory with premium features and modern tech, plus the off-road chops of a Jeep. The right SUV for you depends on your budget and your priorities.
