Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Ford Explorer is more fuel-efficient at 39 MPG combined, against 16 MPG for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. At EPA assumptions that is about $2,250 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Explorer | Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 4,100 | 1,771 |
| Most reported problem | Transmission | Air bags |
| Crashes and fires | 178 and 71 | 98 and 23 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 79,000 miles | 74,000 miles |
| Recalls | 4 | 10 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 39 MPG | 16 MPG |
| City and highway | 45 and 33 | 14 and 19 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $1,950 | $4,200 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 4,100 complaints for the Ford Explorer and 1,771 for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 4 for the Ford Explorer, 10 for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.