Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is more fuel-efficient at 25 MPG combined, against 23 MPG for the Ford Explorer. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Explorer | Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 2,265 | 1,789 |
| Most reported problem | Body & structure | Drivetrain & axles |
| Crashes and fires | 55 and 1 | 182 and 37 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 57,000 miles | 42,000 miles |
| Recalls | 8 | 9 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 23 MPG | 25 MPG |
| City and highway | 20 and 27 | 22 and 30 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,900 | $3,850 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 2,265 complaints for the Ford Explorer and 1,789 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.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Ford Explorer, 5 stars for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Safety recalls on file: 8 for the Ford Explorer, 9 for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.