The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2021 Ford Explorer both offer a respectable menu of features. With many SUVs, however, the best characteristics are only available on premium trims. Utility vehicle shoppers seeking value will want to compare the base models to see which provides more.Â
In 2021, these entry-level options are the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo and the Ford Explorer XLT. How do these two stack up against one another?Â
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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
Engine: 3.6L Pentastar V6Â
Seating: Heated front row with cloth upholsteryÂ
Windows: Acoustic, tinted windshield and front-door glass
Displays: Seven-inch in-cluster display and Uconnect touchscreen
2021 Ford Explorer XLT
Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
Seating: Standard chairs with cloth upholsteryÂ
Windows: Tinted windows
Displays: 6.5-inch information display and Ford Connect
The Grand Cherokee Laredo wins this comparison on several fronts. The Jeep has advantages like a larger engine and bigger infotainment screens. It also comes out on top with more-subtle perks, including heated seats and acoustic windshield glass, both of which are rare for a base trim.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo brings additional value by offering a remote starter, keyless entry, a backup camera, rear-cross path detection, and blind-spot monitoring.
If you want to see the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo for yourself, contact our Langley, BC dealership today to schedule a test drive. Â Â
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2021 Ford Expedition have 4x4 drivetrains that can go off the pavement. Most AWD SUVs can handle dirt, but not all perform the same in off-road conditions.Â
How do the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer do when it comes to dealing with rocks, mud, or snow? Here is how two mid-trim options compare.Â
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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
Drivetrain:Â Quadra-Drive II 4x4
Traction Control: Â Selec-Terrain Management System
Suspension: Quadra-Lift AirÂ
Standard Tires:Â 265/60R18 BSW all-terrain tires
2021 Ford Explorer ST
Drivetrain: 4WD
Traction Control: Terrain Management System
Suspension: Independent Front and Rear
Standard Tires: Â P255/55R20 all season BSW tiresÂ
Because of its air suspension, all-terrain tires, and state-of-the-art traction management system, the 2021 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is a better option if you plan to head off the road. To be fair, Jeep began as a utility vehicle maker, and they have perfected their rugged designs over the decades. Few competitors can match their performance in this area.Â
What else do Surrey, BC drivers get when they purchase a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk? This trim offers electronic limited-slip differential, underside skid plates, and stability control. You also get practical extras, including a full-size spare tire and a roof rack.Â
Finally, the Trailhawk has a Trail Rated badge, which Jeep only awards to vehicles that pass a range of off-road tests for traction, handling, water fording, and ground clearance.Â
If you would like to drive the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, contact our Surrey, BC dealership today.Â
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2021 Ford Explorer can pull trailers. While not always the main selling point, this ability is essential for people who want to get the most out of their utility vehicle's versatility.Â
Do these two popular SUVs perform similarly when it comes to towing? We will compare both base models and more-powerful trims to see if the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee or 2021 Ford Explorer stands out.
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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Base engine: 3.6L Pentastar V6
Max towing: 2,812 kg
Most powerful engine: 5.7L HEMI V8
Max towing: 3,265 kg
2021 Ford Explorer
Base engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
Max towing: 2,404 kg
Most powerful engine: 3.0L EcoBoost V6
Max towing: 2,540 kg
The 2021 Grand Cherokee stands out when it comes to towing. Its smallest engine, the 3.6L Pentastar V6, can pull 272 kg more than the Ford Escape’s most potent option. The Jeep also has rear load-leveling suspension, a four and seven-pin trailer wiring harness, and a heavy-duty cooling system to handle high-rpm operation. Â
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee excels at versatility. Its Quadra-Trac 4x4 drivetrain can conquer various kinds of terrain and challenging conditions. On the inside, it offers exceptional comfort, with heated seats standard on all trims.Â
If you would like to test the towing prowess of the Jeep Grand Cherokee for yourself, contact our Langley, BC dealership.