Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee is really a comparison with the Grand Cherokee L, the only Grand Cherokee with a third row. Here is how the 2027 models compare on winter traction, third-row space and cost to run, using Ford, Jeep, EPA and NHTSA figures.

At a glance

• Only the L has a third row. The two-row Grand Cherokee seats five. The 2027 Grand Cherokee L seats up to seven, and every 2027 Explorer has a third row.
• Different winter traction setups. The Explorer offers Intelligent 4WD and a Slippery drive mode. The Grand Cherokee offers three available 4x4 systems and, where equipped, a Selec-Terrain Snow mode.
• Close on EPA mpg. EPA rates the 2027 Explorer 2.3L with Intelligent 4WD at 23 combined mpg and the Grand Cherokee L 2.0L turbo 4x4 at 22.
• Jeep leads on towing and tank size. Jeep lists 6,200 lb of towing, when properly equipped, and a 23-gallon tank for the 2027 Grand Cherokee. Ford lists 5,000 lb for every 2027 Explorer with the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package.

Which fits a Chicago winter commute, the Explorer or the Grand Cherokee L?

Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee L: Explorer has a third row on every trim and more maximum cargo. The L tows more and offers more 4x4 hardware. Both are 2027 models with three rows, and both carry identical NHTSA ratings. The differences show up in third-row space, traction hardware, towing and the fuel numbers. This guide compares them on Ford, Jeep, EPA and NHTSA figures only, with no prices.

• 38.9 / 31.8 in: Third-row headroom and legroom Ford lists for the 2027 Explorer
• 23 mpg: EPA combined rating, 2027 Explorer 2.3L with Intelligent 4WD (Grand Cherokee L 2.0L turbo 4x4: 22)
• 5 stars: NHTSA overall rating for both the 2027 Explorer and 2027 Grand Cherokee L

NHTSA rates the 2027 Explorer and the 2027 Grand Cherokee L the same: 5 stars overall, frontal and side, and 4 stars rollover. That makes the choice about fit, not safety ratings. Start with the new Ford Explorer page if you want to see trims first.

Does the Jeep Grand Cherokee have a third row?

Only the Grand Cherokee L does. The two-row Grand Cherokee seats five, and the L seats up to seven with the available second-row bench. Jeep lists the two-row model with a second-row bench and five seats. Jeep's 2027 Grand Cherokee L page asks, "Six passengers or seven?" Jeep lets you choose six or seven seats, with seven using the available second-row bench. Jeep calls the L's power-folding third-row bench "available."

Ford lists "six or seven passengers, depending on model and options" for the 2027 Explorer. Second-row captain's chairs are standard, and a bench for seven is available on every model except Tremor. Tremor seats six. A third row is standard on every Explorer, and PowerFold is standard on ST and Platinum.

How do the third rows and cargo space compare?

The L has slightly more cargo room behind the second and third rows. The Explorer has more total cargo room with the rear seats folded. Ford lists 38.9 inches of third-row headroom and 31.8 inches of legroom for the 2027 Explorer. Jeep has not published those figures for the 2027 Grand Cherokee L. Compare them in person before you decide.

Sources: ford.com 2027 Explorer specifications; jeep.com 2027 Grand Cherokee L (3-Row) page, reviewed 10/26/2026. Figures as published by each manufacturer; neither page names its measurement standard. The two-row Grand Cherokee lists 70.8 cu ft behind the first row.

For a Chicago family, the bigger question is what rides back there in January. Strollers, hockey bags and a week of groceries all compete with the third row. See every configuration on our Explorer trims page.

How do Intelligent 4WD and Jeep's 4x4 systems compare in snow?

The Explorer offers Intelligent 4WD and a Slippery mode. The Grand Cherokee offers three available 4x4 systems and, where equipped, a Selec-Terrain Snow mode. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the 2027 Explorer Active, ST-Line, Platinum and ST. Ford says those models "can be upgraded with Intelligent 4WD," and Tremor comes with it standard. Ford lists Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul and Slippery drive modes, plus Trail or Off-Road by model. Ford does not list a Snow mode.

Jeep says the 2027 Grand Cherokee "has three available 4x4 systems." Quadra-Trac I "stays engaged for dependable all-weather performance." Quadra-Trac II uses a two-speed transfer case, and Quadra-Drive II adds a rear electronic limited-slip differential. Selec-Terrain offers "Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow or Mud/Sand."

That is a real Jeep advantage on paper: a named Snow mode and an available low range. The Explorer's answer is Intelligent 4WD with a Slippery mode, and Ford's 2026 order guide adds Hill Descent Control on 4WD models. Either way, tires matter. Both brands list all-season tires on most trims. We suggest asking about a dedicated winter set; that is our advice, not either maker's.

Which has more ground clearance for slush and snowbanks?

On standard suspension they are close. With its available air suspension raised, the Grand Cherokee lists the highest figures. Ford lists "minimum running ground clearance" of 7.6 inches on Active and ST-Line, 7.8 on ST, 8.3 on Platinum and 8.7 on Tremor. Jeep lists 8.4 inches for the 2027 two-row Grand Cherokee on standard suspension. With air suspension at Position 2, Jeep lists 10.9 inches.

Jeep says Quadra-Lift air suspension is "standard on the Grand Cherokee Overland, Trailhawk and Summit." The Trailhawk reaches 11.4 inches, but only in Off Road Position 2. Jeep has not published a 2027 clearance figure for the L.

In city driving, clearance matters at plowed curbs, alley entrances and side streets after a snowfall in Logan Square or Irving Park. The Explorer Tremor's 8.7 inches is the most Ford lists. On a test drive, look under both vehicles and note what sits lowest.

Which gets better fuel economy, and what fuel does each use?

They are close. EPA rates the 2027 Explorer 2.3L with Intelligent 4WD at 23 combined mpg and the Grand Cherokee L 2.0L turbo 4x4 at 22. The table pairs similar drivetrains. All figures are EPA city, highway and combined ratings for 2027 models, and EPA lists regular gasoline for every configuration shown.

Source: EPA, fueleconomy.gov, 2027 model year records, reviewed 10/26/2026. Your mileage will vary with driving conditions, temperature and equipment.

On fuel grade, Jeep lists "Unleaded regular, 87 octane" for both Grand Cherokee engines. For the Explorer's 3.0L V6, Ford notes its horsepower "rating achieved using premium fuel." Check the owner's manual for the recommendation on your engine.

Tank size is a Jeep lead. Jeep lists a 23-gallon tank for the 2027 Grand Cherokee. Ford lists 17.9 gallons with the 2.3L and 20.2 gallons with the 3.0L. A bigger tank can mean fewer fill-ups; EPA does not publish a gas-only range for these models.

What else drives the cost to run an Explorer or a Grand Cherokee L?

Maintenance timing, included maintenance, warranty and tires. Neither brand lists complimentary scheduled maintenance for these 2027 models. Ford's 2026 Explorer order guide lists the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor. Ford's owner's-manual wording for that monitor says to change the oil "within two weeks or 500 mi (800 km) of the message appearing." Then reset the monitor. See our oil-life reset guide and Ford oil change guide.

Jeep, on Jeep Wave and FlexCare. "Jeep Wave is not available for model year 2026 vehicles and beyond. Instead, starting model year 2026, customers can enroll in the FlexCare Vehicle Protection Program." Source: jeep.com Jeep Wave page, reviewed 10/26/2026.

• Included maintenance. Ford does not list complimentary scheduled maintenance for the Explorer. Jeep's FlexCare program is enrolled separately, so ask for its terms.
• Powertrain warranty. Ford's 2026 warranty guide lists 5 years or 60,000 miles. Mopar's current model year coverage page lists a "Jeep Brand vehicle 5-Year/60,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty." Ford adds that "the measure that occurs first" sets the end date.
• Tires. All-season tires come on most trims of both. Ford's 2026 order guide lists all-terrain tires on Tremor, and Jeep lists all-terrain tires on the 2027 Grand Cherokee Laredo Upland.
• Fuel. Use the EPA ratings above and the fuel grade in your owner's manual.

Shop the Ford Explorer

Which winter comfort features should you check by trim?

Heated seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start and an engine block heater vary by trim and package. Check the window sticker, not the model name. On the 2027 Explorer, Ford lists heated front seats on Active. A heated steering wheel and Remote Start System come in the Active Comfort Package. Tremor adds heated front and second-row seats. Ford's 2026 Explorer order guide lists an engine block heater option, code 41H.

For 2026, Jeep says the Grand Cherokee Laredo X adds heated seats and a heated steering wheel as standard, and Limited adds heated second-row seating. Jeep's 2027 release does not list trim-by-trim heat content.

Chicago winters bring sub-zero cold starts, road salt from November through March and freeze-thaw potholes in spring. Cold starts are hard on batteries, so read our Ford battery replacement guide. See our Ford tire services page.

Which buyer fits the Explorer, and which fits the Grand Cherokee L?

Choose the Explorer for a third row on every trim and more maximum cargo room. Choose the Grand Cherokee L for heavier towing, a bigger tank and Jeep's 4x4 options. Both are three-row SUVs with the same NHTSA ratings and close EPA numbers, so the right one depends on how you use it. Here is how we would sort buyers, based on the published figures above.

• The Explorer fits families who use the third row every week and want it on every trim. It also fits drivers who want the 3.0L V6, rated by Ford at up to 400 horsepower.
• The Grand Cherokee L fits buyers towing more than 5,000 pounds. It also fits drivers who want a named Snow mode, low range or air suspension.
• The two-row Grand Cherokee fits buyers who never need a third row. Jeep lists 6,200 pounds of towing for it too, when properly equipped.

Before you buy either, run this winter test drive checklist.

1. Load the third row. Bring the people and car seats who will ride there, and check how easily they climb in.
2. Measure your garage. Ford lists the 2027 Explorer at 198.7 inches long and 89.3 inches wide with mirrors. Measure your door and depth before you shop.
3. Check the drivetrain on the sticker. Confirm RWD or Intelligent 4WD on the Explorer, and which 4x4 system a Grand Cherokee has.
4. Check the winter features. Look for heated seats, a heated wheel, remote start and the block heater on the window sticker.
5. Ask about tires. Ask what tires are on the vehicle and whether a winter set fits your plans.

As posted on 10/26/2026, our Explorer specials page listed lease offers on both 2026 and 2027 Explorer Active 4WD models. Offers change, so check the page for current terms. You can also browse used Ford Explorers, pre-owned Ford programs or apply for financing. Call our sales team at 779-244-6471 to set up a drive, or read more Ford buying guides on our blog.

Explorer vs Grand Cherokee questions, answered

Is the Ford Explorer AWD or 4WD?

Ford calls the Explorer's system Intelligent 4WD. For 2027, rear-wheel drive is standard on Active, ST-Line, Platinum and ST, and Intelligent 4WD is available on those models. Tremor comes with Intelligent 4WD standard. Check the window sticker to confirm which drivetrain a specific Explorer has.

Does the Ford Explorer need premium gas?

EPA lists regular gasoline for every 2027 Explorer configuration. Ford notes that the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 horsepower rating was achieved using premium fuel. The owner's manual for your Explorer gives Ford's fuel recommendation, so check it before your first fill-up and follow it.

How much can the Explorer and the Grand Cherokee L tow?

Ford lists a 5,000-pound maximum for every 2027 Explorer with the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package. Jeep lists 6,200 pounds for the 2027 Grand Cherokee when properly equipped. If you tow more than 5,000 pounds, the Jeep has the edge.

Can I put a snowplow on a Ford Explorer?

Ford says no. Ford's 2026 Explorer order guide lists the Explorer as "not recommended for snow plowing." For Chicago snow, plan on a shovel or a plowing service, and use the Explorer for the commute. If you need a plow truck, ask our sales team about Ford's Super Duty pickups.

Which is shorter for a city garage?

The 2027 two-row Grand Cherokee is shorter: Jeep lists 193.5 inches, and Ford lists the 2027 Explorer at 198.7 inches. Jeep has not published a 2027 length for the three-row L. Measure your garage depth and door width, then compare the exact vehicles before you buy.

Do the Explorer and Grand Cherokee L have different transmissions?

Yes. Ford's 2026 Explorer order guide lists a 10-speed automatic. Jeep lists an 8-speed automatic for the 2027 Grand Cherokee. Both offer rear-drive and four-wheel-drive versions. Drive each one in stop-and-go city traffic and on the expressway to judge how the transmission feels to you.

Can seven people ride in an Explorer Tremor?

No. Ford lists the 2027 Explorer Tremor with six seats, because the second-row bench is not available on Tremor. Every other 2027 Explorer model can be ordered with the bench for seven. If you need seven seats, compare the other trims first.

Which Grand Cherokee trims have air suspension?

Jeep says Quadra-Lift air suspension is standard on the 2027 Grand Cherokee Overland, Trailhawk and Summit. Jeep notes that Trailhawk and Overland arrive later in the model year. Air suspension raises clearance at its higher positions, which Jeep lists separately from standard-suspension clearance.

Should I look at a 2026 or a 2027 Explorer?

Both may be available. As posted on 10/26/2026, our Explorer specials page listed offers on 2026 and 2027 Explorer Active 4WD models. EPA rates the 2026 Explorer 2.3L RWD at 24 combined mpg and the 2027 at 23. Compare equipment, offers and availability on each.

Do NHTSA ratings favor either SUV?

No. NHTSA gives the 2027 Explorer and the 2027 Grand Cherokee L the same ratings. Both get 5 stars overall, 5 stars frontal crash, 5 stars side crash and 4 stars rollover. Check NHTSA's site for the exact version you are considering, since ratings apply to specific configurations.

Test-drive the Explorer on N Elston Ave

Our sales team is at 2501 N Elston Ave in Chicago. Bring your third-row riders and your garage measurements, and ask our sales team to compare Explorer trims and drivetrains with you. Murgado Ford of Chicago is part of the Murgado Automotive Group.

Sales: 779-244-6471
Sales hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM | Saturday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Sunday closed
Service: 779-243-5517

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