2027 Ford Explorer vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee L: Which 3-Row SUV Is Better?
The 2027 Ford Explorer and 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L are two strong choices for families looking for a three-row SUV. Both offer seating for up to seven, available four-wheel drive, useful towing capability, and modern technology. The differences become clearer when you compare performance, towing, cargo space, interior technology, and available off-road hardware.
2027 Explorer vs. Grand Cherokee L at a Glance
Both SUVs offer three-row versatility, but their strengths are different. Ford gives the Explorer more available horsepower and slightly more maximum cargo space, while Jeep gives the Grand Cherokee L the higher maximum towing rating.
| Category | 2027 Ford Explorer | 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Standard engine | 2.3L EcoBoost turbo I-4 | 3.6L Pentastar V6 on Laredo and Laredo X |
| Standard horsepower | 300 hp | 293 hp |
| Maximum horsepower | Up to 400 hp | Up to 324 hp |
| Maximum towing | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 6,200 lbs |
| Maximum cargo space | Up to 85.8 cu. ft. | Up to 84.6 cu. ft. |
| Drivetrain | RWD or available Intelligent 4WD; Tremor has standard 4WD | 2WD or available 4×4 |
Engines and Performance
The Explorer has the advantage when maximum performance is the priority. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It is standard on Explorer Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum.
Ford also offers a 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6. It is standard on the Explorer ST and available on Tremor and Platinum, producing up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Cherokee L starts with a 293-horsepower 3.6L Pentastar V6 on Laredo and Laredo X models, while higher trims use Jeep’s 324-horsepower 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo.
| Performance | 2027 Ford Explorer | 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Base engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 3.6L Pentastar V6 on Laredo / Laredo X |
| Base output | 300 hp / 310 lb-ft | 293 hp |
| Available engine | 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 | 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo |
| Maximum output | 400 hp / 415 lb-ft | 324 hp / 332 lb-ft |
Drivers interested in the 400-horsepower Explorer can choose the performance-focused ST or equip Tremor or Platinum with the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6.
Towing Capability
Jeep takes the lead in maximum towing capacity. The 2027 Grand Cherokee can tow up to 6,200 pounds when properly equipped, while the 2027 Ford Explorer is rated for up to 5,000 pounds.
| Towing | 2027 Ford Explorer | 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum rating | 5,000 lbs | 6,200 lbs |
| Ford equipment highlight | Class III Trailer Tow Package included | Equipment varies by configuration |
| Typical uses | Small boats, personal watercraft, utility trailers, recreational trailers | Similar uses with additional capacity for heavier trailers |
The Jeep’s additional 1,200 pounds of maximum towing capacity matters for shoppers who regularly tow heavier trailers. For many Treasure Coast families, the Explorer’s 5,000-pound rating still covers common recreational towing needs.
Passenger and Cargo Space
Both SUVs offer three rows and seating for up to seven. The Grand Cherokee L has a small advantage in cargo room behind the third row, while the Explorer offers slightly more maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded.
| Interior Space | 2027 Ford Explorer | 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum seating | 7 | 7 |
| Cargo behind third row | 16.3 cu. ft. | 17.2 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | Up to 85.8 cu. ft. | Up to 84.6 cu. ft. |
| Overall length | 198.7 in. | About 204.9 in. on Grand Cherokee L Summit |
The Explorer delivers comparable interior capacity in a shorter overall package, which can make it easier to maneuver in parking garages, shopping centers, and tighter urban areas.
Interior Technology
Both SUVs offer extensive connectivity and driver technology. Ford emphasizes a large standard center screen and BlueCruise availability, while Jeep offers additional passenger-focused display options on select trims.
| Technology | 2027 Ford Explorer | 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Center display | 13.2-inch touchscreen | 10.1-inch on Laredo / Laredo X; available 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 NAV |
| Digital driver display | 12.3-inch | Available digital instrument cluster |
| Hands-free highway assist | Available Ford BlueCruise | Available Hands-Free Active Driving Assist |
| Passenger display | Traditional center-screen layout | Available Front Passenger Interactive Display |
Jeep offers some interesting premium screen options, especially for passengers. Ford counters with a larger standard center display and available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.
4WD and Off-Road Capability
Jeep has a long history of building off-road-oriented SUVs, and the Grand Cherokee offers available 4×4 systems and terrain-management technology depending on trim and equipment.
The Explorer takes a more focused approach with the Tremor. It comes standard with Intelligent 4WD and adds increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, underbody protection, off-road suspension tuning, and a Torsen limited-slip rear axle.
| Capability | 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor | 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Drive system | Standard Intelligent 4WD | Available Jeep 4×4 systems |
| Ground clearance highlight | 8.7 in. | Varies by configuration |
| Traction hardware | Torsen limited-slip rear axle | Jeep 4×4 and terrain systems vary by trim |
| Additional equipment | All-terrain tires, off-road suspension, steel underbody protection | Available off-road hardware varies by model and package |
What’s New for 2027?
| 2027 Ford Explorer | 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee |
|---|---|
| New ST Sinister Package | New 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo on higher trims |
| Explorer Tremor continues as the dedicated off-road model | 10.1-inch infotainment display added to Laredo and Laredo X |
| Available BlueCruise with expanded highway-driving capability | Available 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 NAV display on higher models |
| 2.3L and available 3.0L EcoBoost engines continue | Updated powertrain and equipment availability across the lineup |
Which SUV Is Better for Treasure Coast Families?
Neither SUV wins every category. The Grand Cherokee L has the advantage in maximum towing capacity and offers Jeep’s established 4×4 technology. It also provides slightly more cargo room behind the third row.
The Explorer offers more available horsepower, slightly more maximum cargo capacity, a shorter overall footprint, a larger standard center screen, and available BlueCruise. Its trim range also gives buyers several different personalities, from the practical Active to the 400-horsepower ST and off-road-focused Tremor.
| If Your Priority Is… | Our Pick |
|---|---|
| Maximum available horsepower | Ford Explorer |
| Maximum towing capacity | Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
| Maximum cargo room | Ford Explorer |
| Cargo space behind the third row | Jeep Grand Cherokee L |
| Performance-focused three-row SUV | Ford Explorer ST |
| Smaller exterior footprint | Ford Explorer |
For many Treasure Coast families, the Explorer’s combination of space, performance, technology, and manageable exterior size makes it the stronger all-around daily driver.
Common Questions About the 2027 Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Which has more horsepower, the 2027 Explorer or Grand Cherokee L?
The 2027 Ford Explorer offers up to 400 horsepower from its available 3.0L EcoBoost V6. Jeep’s 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo produces up to 324 horsepower.
Which can tow more?
The Grand Cherokee has the higher maximum towing rating at up to 6,200 pounds when properly equipped. The 2027 Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Which has more cargo space?
The Explorer offers up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space in Active and ST-Line models. The Grand Cherokee L offers up to 84.6 cubic feet. Jeep has a small advantage behind the third row.
Do both SUVs have three rows?
Yes. Every 2027 Explorer has three rows. The three-row version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is called the Grand Cherokee L.
Does the Explorer offer hands-free driving?
Yes. Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is available on select 2027 Explorer models and configurations. A subscription may be required for continued service.
Which SUV should I choose?
Choose the Explorer if you prioritize available horsepower, technology, maximum cargo room, or a smaller exterior footprint. Consider the Grand Cherokee L if maximum towing capacity or Jeep’s available 4×4 systems are more important to you.
Compare the 2027 Ford Explorer at Essential Ford of Stuart
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L brings meaningful strengths, including its higher maximum towing capacity and available Jeep 4×4 systems. The 2027 Ford Explorer counters with more available horsepower, slightly greater maximum cargo capacity, a shorter body, strong standard technology, and a wide range of configurations from Active to ST and Tremor. Visit Essential Ford of Stuart to compare available Explorer models and find the configuration that fits your family.
Specifications, horsepower, towing ratings, cargo volume, seating capacity, drivetrain availability, technology, packages, and features are for informational purposes only and may vary by trim, drivetrain, equipment, build date, and manufacturer updates. Maximum towing ratings require specific configurations and proper equipment. Driver-assistance features have operating limitations and do not replace attentive driving. Always confirm specifications for the individual vehicle before purchase or towing. See Essential Ford of Stuart for complete details.
