2022 Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee

Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee: Comparing Interior Comfort

As SUVs, the Ford Explorer and the Jeep Grand Cherokee offer premium interior space. After all, one of the most enticing aspects of this vehicle class is the expansive and customizable design that can be personalized for any adventure.

However, you’ll notice immediately that one model offers more capability than the other in this arena. The Explorer is standardly equipped with six seats if you opt for the standard second-row captain’s chairs. Compare this to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which only seats five unless you opt for the Grand Cherokee L.

Even with the extra row of seats in the back, the Explorer still offers more wiggle room for first- and second-row occupants. The Explorer gives you 43 inches of legroom up front and 39 inches in the second row, while the Grand Cherokee provides just 41.3 inches of legroom up front and 38.2 inches in the second row.

This space in the Explorer makes carpooling the JV basketball team or loading up for a weekend road trip a breeze. Plus, passengers will enjoy premium comfort options, ensuring you’re comfortable no matter how long you’re on the road.

The Ford Explorer boosts the comfort level up a notch with its available Multicontour front seats with Active Motion®, which provide you and your front passenger with five different massage options, focusing on either the upper or lower back. This feature sees that you’ll have the opportunity to relax fully throughout the drive. The Jeep Grand Cherokee does offer a similar feature but not as much legroom.

Cargo Space: Which Model Can Fit More Inside the Cabin?

The larger cabin offered by the Explorer isn’t just ideal for passenger comfort and carting all types of cargo. This model provides ample space and all kinds of cargo customization options to ensure you don’t have to leave anything behind on your next trip.

With all three rows of seats upright and in place, this model offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo room. Fold down the third-row seats, and you’ll have nearly 47.9 total cubic feet of cargo room. That’s more than enough room for full-size suitcases, small furniture items, boxes for moving, and more.

The real kicker, though, is the Explorer’s maximum cargo capacity. With all the rear seats folded down, you’ll have a whopping 87.8 total cubic feet of cargo room to work with. You can put a whole kayak inside the cabin.

Unfortunately, you won’t be quite as lucky in terms of cargo with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Its smaller standard 2-row design significantly limits your cargo capabilities. The most cargo room you’ll get inside the Jeep’s cabin is 70.8 cubic feet.

A Look at How These 2 Compare in Terms of Technology

The Explorer provides everything you’ll need to take the edge off the daily commute when it comes to staying connected. Here’s a sample of what it offers through its standard SYNC® 3 infotainment system:

• Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
• Turn-by-turn navigation
• Ford+Alexa integration

The Explorer is also available with a 10.1-inch LCD capacitive portrait touchscreen that allows you to access all your settings and controls without taking too much of your attention away from the road ahead.

The Explorer continues to outshine the Grand Cherokee as we move on to the entertainment category. It allows everyone on board to enjoy a quality listening experience that fills the cabin with its optional 980-watt B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 14 speakers. The best system you’ll find in the Grand Cherokee offers 19 speakers, but you need to upgrade four trim levels to access it. The Explorer offers speaker upgrades beginning at the second trim level.

Performance Specs for the Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee

One more category we need to cover is performance. Both Ford and Jeep are known for manufacturing models that excel in power and capability, and these midsize SUVs are no exception.

Both models offer several powertrain options, including powerful V6 engines. The Grand Cherokee even offers an optional V8 engine with immense power for everyday driving.

You’ll also get several 4×4 drivetrain options with the Jeep, but they are no more impressive than the Explorer’s available Intelligent 4WD with the Terrain Management System™. The Explorer’s Terrain Management System™ lets you head off-road and customize your drive to match your environment. Modes include Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, Tow/Haul, and Slippery.

Enjoy the perfect combination of muscle and efficiency with the Explorer’s available 3.3L V6 Hybrid engine, which puts out a total of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.