Which midsize SUV is right for your fun-loving Florida lifestyle -- the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Explorer? Both are all-American icons in their own right, but you've only got one spot available in your garage. Good thing our comparison guide is here to help!
Key Takeaways
- Both SUVs are comfy options, but the Grand Cherokee's seating options give it the edge!
- When it's time to hit the trail, the Grand Cherokee's old-school four-wheel-drive system maximizes your adventures.
- Choose the Grand Cherokee for the heftiest towing capabilities!
- The 2026 Explorer (from $38,465*) starts at the best price, but the Grand Cherokee (starting at $38,920*) is barely more expensive.
Everyday Comfort: 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
When it comes to cushy seating and luxurious upgrades, both midsize SUVs deliver the goods! The Explorer and Grand Cherokee offer a range of trim models, offering everything from budget-friendly cruising to upscale ambiance. Available features include high-end leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a dual-panel panoramic sunroof!
So why does the Grand Cherokee carry this category? One word: flexibility. Jeep's midsize SUV is available with two or three rows of seating, making it a better pick for a wider range of families. It's the ultimate option for drivers who want all the capabilities of the midsize segment with or without the extra row of seating!
Off-Road Adventure: 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Although both models come standard with sporty rear-wheel drive, only the Grand Cherokee offers true four-wheel drive. So if your weekend adventures involve mud, rocks, or deep sand, you can count on Jeep's midsize SUV for a rugged good time!
Better yet, Grand Cherokee shoppers can choose from three options. Quadra-Trac I is a full-time four-wheel-drive system that sends 48 percent of engine torque to the front axle and 52 percent to the rear. Quadra-Trac II adds a two-speed transfer case, thereby providing low-range gearing for especially difficult terrain. And then there's Quadra-Drive II. It adds to the Quadra-Trac II setup with front and rear limited-slip differentials, ensuring all that engine torque doesn't get sent to the one wheel that's stuck in the sand. In fact, this system is so high-tech that it can sense when a wheel isn't getting any traction and send 100 percent of power to the unstuck wheel!
By comparison, the 2026 Explorer's available all-wheel-drive system isn't quite as rugged. Unlike four-wheel drive, which consistently sends power to all four wheels, all-wheel drive only powers the Explorer's front wheels when it detects slippage. All-wheel drive is great for rainy pavement and mild trails, but it has its limits deep in off-road terrain!
Max Towing: 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
If your boat trailer weighs more than 5,000 pounds (and less than 6,200 pounds), you'll need the Grand Cherokee's extra-rugged performance! Its heftier capabilities also make it the better pick for families with campers and various other oversized toys.
Of course, both SUVs deliver major power and surprisingly good fuel economy. Their rear-wheel-drive platforms make them great choices for towing in general. But you've got to go with the one that meets your needs!
Performance Specs
| Trim Model |
2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee |
2026 Ford Explorer |
| Engine |
3.6L V6 (293 hp, 260 lb-ft) |
2.3L inline four-cylinder (300 hp, 311 lb-ft) |
| Optional Engine |
Turbo 2.0L Hurricane 4 (324 hp, 332 lb-ft) |
3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft) |
| Transmission |
Eight-speed automatic |
10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain |
Standard RWD or optional 4WD |
Standard RWD or optional AWD |
| Max Trailer |
6,200 lbs |
5,000 lbs |
| Max EPA Ratings |
23 mpg combined (21 city/27 highway) |
24 mpg combined (20 city/29 highway) |
Lowest MSRP: 2026 Ford Explorer
No buying guide for the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer would be complete without considering price! And Ford's three-row SUV (from $38,465*) starts at the lowest price, whether you're comparing it to the two-row Cherokee (from $38,920*) or three-row Grand Cherokee L (from $40,920*).
*MSRP as of 3/1/26. Subject to change.
Your New SUV
In the end, the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the ultimate choice for fun-loving drivers. With its adventure-ready performance and muscular towing capabilities, this midsize SUV is practically destined for your Florida adventures. Plus, you'll enjoy high levels of everyday comfort and cutting-edge safety! Come see what we mean -- visit us at Thunder Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to take your family for a test-drive.