The 2019 Jeep Cherokee and the Ford Explorer fill a similar niche in their respective lineups. Each offers a little adventure and performance in a practical, everyday package, but there are a few differences to consider when deciding between them.
Drivers in Rapid City, Belle Fourche, and Sioux Falls can learn more about these capable midsize SUVs with our 2019 Jeep Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer comparison.
Performance
Both the Cherokee and the Explorer offer a range of engine options. The Cherokee has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder base engine with 180 horsepower, but those looking for more performance can upgrade to a 2.0-liter turbo-4 with 270 horsepower. The Explorer starts with a V6 and offers a turbo-4 upgrade as well, though the outdated base engine isn't quite capable of moving the Explorer's considerable weight.
The Cherokee uses a 9-speed automatic transmission for its engine options, while the Explorer uses a 6-speed automatic transmission. Both vehicles have a smooth ride and sharp handling, but the Cherokee has less body roll and lean through turns.
Off-road, the Cherokee has a clear advantage. With three all-wheel drive systems and special low-range gearing with crawl ratios, as well as off-road-specialized add-ons, the Cherokee is equipped to tackle any trail. The Explorer has a multi-mode traction control system for all-wheel drive models, but it's designed more for slick pavement than rough trails.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Cherokee and the Explorer each have well-designed interiors with comfortable seating and excellent outward visibility. Front-seat passengers enjoy ample headroom and legroom and contoured, comfortable seating, but the rear seats are where these vehicles differ. The Explorer chooses to include a third row, which is only suitable for small passengers, whereas the Cherokee forgoes the third row in favor of more comfort and space for all passengers. Because of this, the Cherokee has more spacious and comfortable seating in the rear seat.
Both the Cherokee and the Explorer offer expansive cargo bays with folding seats and a low load floor. A cargo-management system is available with the Cherokee, however, which has eight cargo tie-downs to secure bags or loose cargo, as well as other features to make the space more usable. No equivalent feature is available for the Explorer.
Technology
The Cherokee and the Explorer offer plenty of technology features and connectivity options, such as touchscreen infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ smartphone integration, as well as Bluetooth® and satellite radio. Both infotainment systems are straightforward and intuitive, giving you plenty of options for entertainment and information. The Cherokee offers an Alpine premium sound system with nine speakers and 506 watts of power, and five years of real-time traffic alerts through the telematics system, which aren't available for the Explorer.
The Cherokee has a wider range of advanced safety technology as well. The Explorer stops at collision warning and automatic emergency braking, but the Cherokee has a full suite of blind-spot monitors, traffic alerts, collision warnings, automatic braking and other features that keep you safe and protected on the road.
Test Drive the 2019 Jeep Cherokee
Because they're so similar, we hope that our 2019 Jeep Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer comparison helped you decide which of these vehicles is right for you.
Drivers in Rapid City, Belle Fourche, and Sioux Falls can learn more about the 2019 Jeep Cherokee by visiting Liberty Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT. Call or stop by our dealership today to schedule your test drive!