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The 2023 Ford Explorer is a popular vehicle despite some past models needing improvement. However, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee is also a solid option for people who buy this genre of SUV. Not only is the new Grand Cherokee a bigger vehicle that allows for more overall space, but the reviews also say it’s more capable. Some think the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee is just for off-roading, but it’s a wonderfully versatile vehicle. 

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers similar performance to the Explorer

2023 Ford Explorer
2023 Ford Explorer | via Ford

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee has two engine options. The first is a 3.6-liter V6 with a maximum output of 293 horsepower. This version is a rear-wheel drive SUV. The other option for the new Jeep Grand Cherokee is a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that pairs with an electric traction motor. It makes a combined 375 horsepower. 

Rivaling the Grand Cherokee, the Ford Explorer 2023 comes with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, according to Car and Driver. It has a maximum output of 300 horsepower. For those wanting more power, the King Ranch, Platinum, and ST trims all make 400 hp. Regarding the hybrid version of the Ford SUV, it has a 3.3-liter V6 paired with one electric motor, which makes 318 horsepower.

Regarding speed, the 2023 Grand Cherokee and the 2023 Explorer are decently even. The fastest Jeep option, the 4XE, goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.3 seconds. The Ford SUV does an acceleration time of 5.5 seconds. 

The Jeep SUV is bigger than the 2023 Explorer 

2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee interior
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee | via Stellantis

The main reason the 2023 Grand Cherokee beats the new Ford Explorer is that it’s a bigger vehicle. Of course, this also means that the Jeep option accommodates more passengers. Both SUVs seat up to seven passengers, but the new Jeep has more cargo space. It also has more leg and headroom than its Ford rival.

Regarding technology, the 2023 Jeep SUV comes standard with an 8.4-inch touchscreen with the option to make it 10.1 inches. The 2023 Explorer has a standard eight-inch screen, but buyers can upgrade it to a vertical 10.1 display, which might give it a slight edge over the Grand Cherokee. Both SUVs have an impressive sound system, but the 2023 Grand Cherokee interior arguably looks more upscale. 

The Jeep comes at a higher price 

a white 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee | via Stellantis

The only real downside to the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee versus the 2023 Explorer is that it’s a bit more expensive. The Jeep starts at $39,395, but higher trims are significantly more expensive. Regarding the Ford SUV, it has a starting price of $36,760, but it needs significant upgrades to match the Jeep option. The great thing is that both vehicles are considered reliable. 

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee has much to offer the market over the Explorer. Not only is it a better family vehicle due to its size, but the Jeep has an overall better interior. The price of ownership may be higher, but it’s a vehicle with the potential to check almost every box a future buyer may have. Both are great, but the new Grand Cherokee is a much more well-rounded SUV option. 

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