The redesigned, fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee debuted for the 2022 model year in a heated space, offering customers a vehicle with fresh styling inside and out, new tech, and a revamped powertrain lineup. One of the Grand Cherokee’s many competitors is the Ford Explorer, which itself is set to undergo a refresh for the 2025 model year bearing a host of updates. However, in the meantime, the outgoing 2024 Ford Explorer is still proving to be a compelling option, regardless.
In fact, a recent comparison test from Kelley Blue Book resulted in the 2024 Ford Explorer beating out the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, for a number of reasons. Aside from having a lower starting price, the 2024 Ford Explorer also has more power on tap in base form, not to mention a roomier interior – though those wanting to spend more money on a higher-trimmed Grand Cherokee can opt for more.
“The Ford Explorer’s lower starting price, better fuel economy, and slightly roomier interior make it the more practical and thrifty option among these two midsize SUVs,” KBB said of its selection. “However, if you have the extra coin, the Jeep Grand Cherokee flirts with luxury SUV territory with premium features and modern tech, plus the off-road chops of a Jeep and more towing muscle than the Ford. The right SUV for you depends on your budget and your priorities.”
Sales Numbers - Mainstream Large Three-Row Crossovers - Q1 2024 - USA
| MODEL | Q1 24 / Q1 23 | Q1 24 | Q1 23 | Q1 24 SHARE | Q1 23 SHARE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FORD EXPLORER | +0.70% | 58,465 | 58,061 | 20% | 20% |
| TOYOTA HIGHLANDER | -42.12% | 32,033 | 55,344 | 11% | 19% |
| HONDA PILOT | +21.64% | 30,051 | 24,704 | 10% | 8% |
| KIA TELLURIDE | -5.93% | 25,578 | 27,190 | 9% | 9% |
| VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS | +38.31% | 25,326 | 18,311 | 9% | 6% |
| HYUNDAI PALISADE | +28.84% | 25,255 | 19,602 | 9% | 7% |
| TOYOTA GRAND HIGHLANDER | * | 25,136 | * | 8% | 0% |
| NISSAN PATHFINDER | -20.02% | 19,012 | 23,770 | 6% | 8% |
| CHEVROLET TRAVERSE | -44.58% | 17,475 | 31,533 | 6% | 11% |
| DODGE DURANGO | -13.39% | 15,129 | 17,467 | 5% | 6% |
| SUBARU ASCENT | -14.20% | 12,683 | 14,782 | 4% | 5% |
| MAZDA CX-90 | +3,378.75% | 9,984 | 287 | 3% | 0% |
| MAZDA CX-9 | -99.95% | 3 | 6,666 | 0% | 2% |
| TOTAL | -0.53% | 296,130 | 297,717 |
Though the launch of the refreshed 2025 Ford Explorer will be delayed as the automaker conducts quality checks on that model, the 2024 Ford Explorer continues to earn accolades such as this – in fact, it just ranked second among all mid-size SUVs in J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). In terms of sales, the Explorer also continued to lead the mainstream large three-row SUV segment in the U.S. in Q1 of this year, holding onto a 20 percent share in a rather dominant performance.
We’ll have more on the Explorer soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for the latest Ford Explorer news and comprehensive Ford news updates.
Comment
But the Explorer can’t be 4 down towed behind a motorhome so Jeep wins with Motorhome owners