2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Features & Specs
2021 Ford Explorer
8.6 inches
Minimum ground clearance
8.2 inches
84.6 cubic feet
Cargo space to front seats
83.9 cubic feet
24.6 gallons
Fuel capacity
17.9 gallons
7,200 pounds
Max towing capacity
5,600 pounds
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs Ford Explorer
There are many options to consider when you're in the market for a new full-size SUV. And with new models seeming to come out each year, the selection keeps expanding. One of the newest members of the three-row SUV class is the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. It brings two powerful engine options, three legendary drivetrains, and a first-class interior. Its competition, the Ford Explorer, offers many fantastic options as well. At Marburger Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we understand choosing the right SUV can be an overwhelming decision. This is why we've taken both of these wonderful vehicles and put them side by side with their best features on display to help you choose. Keep reading below to take an in-depth look at the all-new Grand Cherokee L and the Ford Explorer!
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Power & Handling
The standard Grand Cherokee L engine is a 3.6L V6 engine that kicks out 290 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. For drivers seeking more, there is a 5.7L V8 that is rated for 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine can tow 6,200lbs when equipped with the available Tow Package, while the V8 adds an extra 1,000lbs to haul up to 7,200lbs. Both engines are mated to a robust TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission which can be controlled with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The Grand Cherokee L stands out in its class with its world-class capability. It can be had with three available four-wheel drivetrains, Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II. Each system is a full-time 4x4 drivetrain with a network of sensors to monitor wheel spin and detect slippage. When a loss of traction is detected, up to 100% of available torque is automatically sent to the wheels with the most traction. While Quadra-Trac I employs a single-speed transfer case, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II use a two-speed transfer case with Active 4-Low for low-speed crawling control. Quadra-Drive II adds an electronic limited-slip rear differential for superior traction control.
2021 Ford Explorer Power & Handling
The Ford Explorer certainly doesn't lack any power. The engine lineup kicks off with a 2.3L turbocharged I4 with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The exclusive Explorer Hybrid comes with a 3.3L V6 engine mated with an electric motor which kicks it up to 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. Exclusive under the hood of the Platinum trim is a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 with 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Lastly, the ST trim comes equipped with an enhanced 3.0L twin-turbo V6 that kicks out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to four-wheel-drive capability, the Grand Cherokee L excels, while the Explorer falls behind. Rear-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain on most trims, while all-wheel drive is optional. Only the Premium and ST trims come off the line with all-wheel drive.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Features & Design
Even its most basic form, the Laredo trim, is extremely well-equipped. It features fully LED exterior lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, roof rails, keyless entry/push-button start, a power driver's seat, a 10.25-inch fully customizable digital driver information display, an 8.4-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, the industries fastest and most advanced infotainment software, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, Bluetooth, second-row bucket seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, paddle shifters, adaptive cruise control, and much more. Higher trim levels add many more features like leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats, a power passenger's seat, Quadra-Drive II, Quadra-Lift Air Suspension, a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, Nappa leather upholstery, a rear seat monitoring camera, four-zone automatic climate control, massaging front seats, a surround-view camera, and more. The top-level Summit trim comes with a 19-speaker McIntosh premium sound system that provides a home theater audio experience for the first time in automotive history.
2021 Ford Explorer Features & Design
In recent years, the Ford Explorer has finally left behind the box-like design and shifted to a sleeker design. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, smartphone integration, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a second-row bench seat, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Higher trim levels add keyless entry/push-button start, 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic moonroof, leather seating, roof rails, heated/ventilated front seats, paddle shifters, a surround-view camera, second-row bucket seats, power-adjustable front seats, all-wheel drive, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufson sound system.
Conclusion:
The competition between the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and the Ford Explorer is a fierce one. But with superior off-road capability from three available drivetrains and available air suspension in combination with a world-class comfortable interior, the Grand Cherokee L takes the cake! Still not sure? Come on down to Marburger Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to learn more about the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and all it has to offer! Right here on our website, you can appraise your trade-in vehicle, get pre-approved for financing, and peruse our full inventory!
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