If you're weighing your next three-row SUV and going back and forth between the 2025 Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee, we understand why! These two are both known to be family favorites, but they go about their business in pretty different ways. Let’s take a look at their features in this 2025 Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee comparison to see which one fits your needs better.
Key Takeaways
- As of June 4, 2025, the Ford Explorer ranges from $41,380 to $55,835. The Grand Cherokee lineup spans $38,490 to $65,035.
- Ford offers two engine choices to Jeep's one.
- The Explorer leans into practical upgrades and tech enhancements, while the Grand Cherokee remains largely unchanged from last year.
Which SUV Got the Bigger Update: 2025 Ford Explorer
While some were holding out for a full redesign, Ford took a more focused route for the 2025 Explorer by tightening up the interior, dialing in comfort, and trimming the lineup for easier decision-making.
The Explorer's biggest additions are under the tech umbrella. Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving is now standard, and the new Digital Experience system brings things like Google Assistant, streaming, and next-level navigation straight into your daily drive. You’ll also notice some subtle visual changes (i.e., a new grille and lighting touches) that give the Explorer a refreshed vibe without overhauling its identity.
Here’s how the 2025 Explorer lineup's MSRP looks:
- Active: $41,380
- ST-Line: $46,190
- Tremor (late availability): est. $52,000
- Platinum: $53,695
- ST: $55,835
Meanwhile, the Grand Cherokee carries over unchanged for 2025. Here are its trims:
- Laredo A: $38,490
- Laredo: $39,030
- Laredo X: $39,780
- Altitude: $43,635
- Altitude X: $44,135
- Limited: $44,900
- Overland: $58,990
- Summit: $60,555
- Summit Reserve: $65,035
Which SUV Offers More Powertrain Variety: 2025 Ford Explorer
The Explorer gives you two strong engine options that mate with a ten-speed automatic.
- A turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder generating 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque is standard on most trims.
- A turbocharged 3.0L V6 pushing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It is standard on the ST and optional on Platinum.
Both engines are available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on your preference.
The Grand Cherokee sticks with a naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 that puts out 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque and pairs with an eight-speed automatic. It’s rear-wheel-drive by default, with all-wheel drive optional.
Which SUV Offers Better Fuel Economy: 2025 Ford Explorer
If you're paying attention to gas mileage, the Explorer’s four-cylinder gives it a slight lead, especially around town.
Explorer (rear-wheel drive)
- 2.3L turbo: 21 city/28 highway
- 3.0L V6: 18 city/26 highway
Grand Cherokee (either drivetrain)
- 3.6L V6: 19 city/26 highway
Interior Comfort and Features: It’s a Tie
Ford clearly paid attention to what matters in the cabin. The 2025 Explorer features more upscale materials, new color palettes, and a more spacious front passenger area. Third-row access is easier now, too, thanks to one-touch sliding second-row seats. Plus, Ford's Digital Experience adds more connectivity, better voice control, and over-the-air updates to keep things fresh.
The Grand Cherokee still leans harder into luxury, especially as you climb trims. It sticks with Jeep’s Uconnect 5 system, which remains solid, and offers premium materials, comfort-focused details, and upscale tech. You’ll find standard smartphone integration, optional built-in navigation, and plenty of charging ports, no matter where you sit.
Which SUV Is Right for Your Family: 2025 Ford Explorer
The 2025 Ford Explorer simply feels more refreshed, more capable, and more in tune with what modern families are actually looking for. You’re getting better tech, more engine options, and useful interior improvements, all with competitive pricing. Ready to see what the Explorer can do? Come by and take it for a spin.