The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most popular SUVs on the market. If you're considering this full-size Jeep SUV but still wondering how it stacks up to a formidable rival like the Ford Explorer, we have all the details you need to make the best decision for your family in th
Key Takeaways
Differences in the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Ford Explorer
Jeep made some small updates to the Grand Cherokee for 2026. Its front and rear exterior got some styling changes, and the automaker added a new turbo four-cylinder engine option and tech upgrades.
For '26, the Tremor trim joins the Explorer lineup and features an upgraded suspension, limited-slip rear diff, chunky all-terrain tires, and specific 18-inch wheels. Ford also added BlueCruise and improved parking assistance tech across the board.
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee |
2026 Ford Explorer |
| Front and rear exterior styling updates |
Tremor trim added to lineup |
| New turbocharged four-cylinder engine option |
BlueCruise added to all trims |
| Added tech upgrades |
Parking assistance tech added to all trims |
Powertrains and Fuel Economy in the 2026 Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer
The Grand Cherokee features a 3.6-liter V-6 generating 293 horsepower, and there's also a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder available that delivers 324 horses. Both mate to an eight-speed automatic. You get rear-wheel drive unless you opt for one of three all-wheel-drive setups--each offers different levels of trail capability, with the most advanced level able to channel all torque to whichever wheel has grip. Tow capacity reaches 6,200 pounds when configured properly.
The Explorer comes with a turbo 2.3-liter four-cylinder delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet on Active, ST-Line, and Platinum models. ST buyers get a turbo 3.0-liter V-6 cranking out 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet (Platinum buyers can add this engine too). All trims use a 10-speed automatic with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. Max towing for the Explorer is 5,000 pounds.
The Grand Cherokee features a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. SiriusXM comes with every model, as does available navigation that pulls in real-time traffic and weather data. Step up to nicer trims, and you'll get a digital gauge display, a 10.0-inch heads-up display, and an additional 10.3-inch screen for your passenger.
Base Laredo and Limited versions include six speakers, though you can move up to a nine-speaker Alpine arrangement or go full audiophile with 19 McIntosh speakers.
Ford equips the Explorer with a 13.2-inch LCD running their Digital Experience software, which integrates Google and Amazon services alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. There are eight USB connections, three 12-volt power points, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio setup.
Choosing Between the 2026 Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee
If towing and trail capability matter to you, there's no denying that the Grand Cherokee pulls ahead in this race. If you want an SUV that handles everyday school runs or backcountry roads without breaking a sweat, the Grand Cherokee's the smarter choice. Stop by our Coleman Motors showroom for a test drive!