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What Cars Are As Good As Ford Explorer? 20 Similar Rides Worth Checking Out
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If you're in the market for a new SUV, you've likely considered the Ford Explorer. This popular vehicle has been a staple on American roads for decades, known for its spacious interior, impressive towing capacity, and reliable performance.
However, with so many SUVs on the market today, it can be difficult to know which ones are comparable to the Explorer in terms of quality and features. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at 20 similar rides that are worth checking out. From the rugged Jeep Grand Cherokee to the luxurious Volvo XC90, we'll explore the pros and cons of each vehicle to help you make an informed decision.
So, if you're ready to find your next dream car, keep reading!
How Ford Explorer Stacks Up Against the Competitors
| Competitors | Last Release | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer | 2023 | 25 city / 28 highway |
| BMW X7 | 2022 | 19 city / 24 highway |
| Buick Enclave | 2023 | 18 city / 26 highway |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | 2023 | 15 city / 20 highway |
| Chevrolet Traverse | 2023 | 18 city / 27 highway |
| Dodge Durango | 2022 | 19 city / 26 highway |
| Dodge Journey | 2019 | 19 city / 25 highway |
| Ford Expedition | 2023 | |
| Ford Flex | 2019 | 16 city / 23 highway |
| GMC Acadia | 2022 | 22 city / 29 highway |
| GMC Yukon | 2023 | 15 city / 20 highway |
| GMC Yukon Denali | 2000 | 12 city / 16 highway |
| GMC Yukon XL | 2023 | 15 city / 20 highway |
| Honda Crosstour | 2015 | 22 city / 31 highway |
| Honda Pilot | 2022 | 20 city / 27 highway |
| Hyundai Palisade | 2023 | 19 city / 27 highway |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | 2023 | 25 city / 28 highway |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 2022 | 19 city / 26 highway |
| Jeep Wrangler Unlimited | 2022 | 21 city / 24 highway |
| Kia Sorento | 2022 | 24 city / 29 highway |
| Kia Telluride | 2022 | 20 city / 26 highway |
BMW X7
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 19 city / 24 highway
The BMW X7 is a true behemoth on the road. It's a large SUV that can comfortably seat seven passengers, making it perfect for families or those who value space and luxury.
The X7's powerful engine and smooth ride make it a joy to drive, but its size can be a drawback when navigating tight city streets.
Overall, the BMW X7 is an impressive vehicle that offers both style and substance.
| Ground clearance | no data |
| Number of seats | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 122.2 in |
| GVWR | 6989 - 7319 lbs |
| Payload | 1 lbs |
| Curb weight | 5370 - 5661 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 5000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 39.80 in |
| Rear legroom | 37.60 in |
| Front headroom | 42.00 in |
Buick Enclave
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 18 city / 26 highway
The Buick Enclave stands out with its luxurious interior and smooth ride, making me feel like I'm driving a high-end vehicle.
Overall, I think it's a great choice for those who prioritize comfort and style in their SUV.
| Ground clearance | 7.5 in |
| Number of seats | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in |
| GVWR | 6160 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4359 - 4685 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 5000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.20 in |
| Rear legroom | 38.30 in |
| Front headroom | 41.00 in, 43.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 59.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 58.00 in |
Chevrolet Tahoe
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 15 city / 20 highway
The key decision-making factors for the Chevrolet Tahoe are its spacious interior and towing capacity. It performs well in these areas, with ample room for passengers and cargo and a towing capacity of up to 8,600 pounds.
Additionally, the Tahoe offers a smooth ride and a comfortable cabin, making it a great choice for long road trips. Its advanced safety features and technology also add to its appeal.
Overall, the Chevrolet Tahoe is a reliable and practical SUV that is perfect for families and those who need to tow heavy loads. Its combination of comfort, space, and capability make it a top choice in its class.
| Horsepower / Torque | 420 hp / 460 lb.ft |
| Axle ratio | 3.2 |
| Towing capacity | 7000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in |
| GVWR | 7400 - 7500 lbs |
| Payload | 1 lbs |
| Ground clearance | 8.0 in |
| Curb weight | 5473 - 5845 lbs |
Chevrolet Traverse
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 18 city / 27 highway
The Chevrolet Traverse has a fuel economy of 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is comparable to its competitors in the midsize SUV category.
It also has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, which is higher than many of its competitors.
| Ground clearance | 7.5 in |
| Number of seats | 7 - 8 |
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in |
| GVWR | 6160 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4310 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1000 - 5000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.00 in |
| Rear legroom | 38.40 in |
| Front headroom | 41.00 in, 43.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 58.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 57.00 in |
Dodge Durango
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 19 city / 26 highway
The Dodge Durango is a spacious and powerful SUV with impressive towing capacity.
However, it can be expensive to maintain and has below-average fuel efficiency.
| Ground clearance | 8.0 - 8.1 in |
| Number of seats | 6 - 7 |
| Wheelbase | 119.8 in |
| GVWR | 6500 - 7100 lbs |
| Payload | 1 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4689 - 5378 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 6200 - 8700 lbs |
| Front legroom | 40.30 in |
| Rear legroom | 38.60 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 57.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 56.00 in |
Dodge Journey
Latest Release: 2019
MPG: 19 city / 25 highway
The Dodge Journey is a midsize SUV that competes with the likes of the Ford Edge and Nissan Murano.
While it may not have the same level of refinement as its competitors, the Journey offers a spacious cabin and affordable price point, making it a solid choice for families on a budget.
| Ground clearance | 7.2 in |
| Number of seats | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in |
| GVWR | 5250 - 5600 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3818 - 4238 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1000 - 2000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 40.80 in |
| Rear legroom | 36.10 in |
| Front headroom | 41.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 54.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 54.00 in |
Ford Expedition
Latest Release: 2023
The Ford Expedition has a spacious interior and can comfortably seat up to eight people.
However, its fuel economy is below average compared to other SUVs in its class.
| Horsepower / Torque | 440 hp / 510 lb.ft |
| Axle ratio | 3.3 - 3.7 |
| Towing capacity | 6000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 122.5 in |
| GVWR | 7200 - 7450 lbs |
| Payload | 1 lbs |
| Ground clearance | 9.8 - 10.6 in |
| Curb weight | 5443 - 5692 lbs |
Ford Flex
Latest Release: 2019
MPG: 16 city / 23 highway
The Ford Flex is a spacious and comfortable SUV that offers plenty of room for both passengers and cargo.
With its smooth ride and powerful engine, it's a great choice for families who value both style and functionality.
| Ground clearance | 5.9 in |
| Number of seats | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 117.9 in |
| GVWR | 5970 - 6150 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4439 - 4828 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 2000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 40.80 in |
| Rear legroom | 44.30 in |
| Front headroom | 42.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 56.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 55.00 in |
GMC Acadia
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 22 city / 29 highway
The GMC Acadia offers a spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers. It also comes with advanced safety features to ensure a comfortable and secure ride.
Whether you're running errands around town or taking a road trip, the Acadia has plenty of room for all your gear. Plus, with its smooth ride and responsive handling, you'll enjoy every minute behind the wheel.
Overall, the GMC Acadia is a great choice for families and anyone who values comfort, safety, and versatility in their vehicle. So why not take one for a test drive today and experience the Acadia difference for yourself?
| Ground clearance | 7.2 in |
| Number of seats | 6 |
| Wheelbase | 112.5 in |
| GVWR | 6001 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4155 - 4525 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 3000 - 4000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.00 in |
| Rear legroom | 39.70 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 56.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 53.00 in |
GMC Yukon
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 15 city / 20 highway
The GMC Yukon is a brute of an SUV, with a commanding presence on the road and enough power to tow a small planet.
It's the perfect vehicle for those who want to make a statement and be able to haul their entire family and all of their gear at the same time.
| Horsepower / Torque | 420 hp / 460 lb.ft |
| Axle ratio | 3.2 |
| Towing capacity | 7000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in |
| GVWR | 7400 - 7500 lbs |
| Payload | 1 lbs |
| Ground clearance | 8.0 in |
| Curb weight | 5490 - 5827 lbs |
GMC Yukon Denali
Latest Release: 2000
MSRP: $38,093
MPG: 12 city / 16 highway
The GMC Yukon Denali offers a powerful V8 engine, spacious interior, and advanced safety features, making it a top pick for those seeking a luxurious and versatile SUV.
However, its fuel economy may be a concern for some buyers.
| Horsepower / Torque | 255 hp / 330 lb.ft |
| Axle ratio | 3.7 |
| Towing capacity | 6500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 117.5 in |
| GVWR | 6800 lbs |
| Payload | 933 lbs |
| Ground clearance | no data |
| Curb weight | 5867 lbs |
GMC Yukon XL
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 15 city / 20 highway
The GMC Yukon XL is a spacious and luxurious SUV that boasts impressive towing capacity and advanced safety features.
This sets it apart from competitors in its class.
| Horsepower / Torque | 420 hp / 460 lb.ft |
| Axle ratio | 3.2 |
| Towing capacity | 7000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 134.1 in |
| GVWR | 7500 - 7700 lbs |
| Payload | 1 lbs |
| Ground clearance | 8.0 in |
| Curb weight | 5633 - 5998 lbs |
Honda Crosstour
Latest Release: 2015
MSRP: $25,185
MPG: 22 city / 31 highway
The Honda Crosstour is known for its spacious interior and smooth ride. However, some buyers may be put off by its polarizing exterior design.
| Ground clearance | 6.2 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Luggage volume | 25.70 cu.ft. |
| Wheelbase | 110.1 in |
| GVWR | 4938 - 5115 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3703 - 4105 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 1000 - 1500 lbs |
| Front legroom | 42.20 in |
| Rear legroom | 37.00 in, 37.40 in |
| Front headroom | 39.50 in |
| Rear headroom | 55.30 in |
| Rear hip room | 53.90 in |
Honda Pilot
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 20 city / 27 highway
The Honda Pilot is a spacious and practical SUV with a comfortable ride and excellent fuel economy, making it a top performer in its class.
With a 280 horsepower V6 engine, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, outpacing competitors like the Toyota Highlander and Nissan Pathfinder.
| Ground clearance | no data |
| Number of seats | 7 - 8 |
| Wheelbase | 110.9 - 111.0 in |
| GVWR | 5545 - 5842 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4030 - 4321 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 3500 - 5000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 40.90 in |
| Rear legroom | 38.40 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 59.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 57.00 in |
Hyundai Palisade
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 19 city / 27 highway
The Hyundai Palisade is a spacious and comfortable SUV with plenty of features to keep the whole family happy.
Its fuel economy and safety features make it a practical choice for daily use.
| Ground clearance | 7.9 in |
| Number of seats | 7 - 8 |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 in |
| GVWR | 5732 - 5871 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4171 - 4506 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 5000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 44.10 in |
| Rear legroom | 42.40 in |
| Front headroom | 39.00 in, 41.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 58.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 58.00 in |
Hyundai Santa Fe
Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 25 city / 28 highway
The Hyundai Santa Fe may not be the flashiest ride out there, but it's got plenty of room for the whole family and won't break the bank.
However, it's not exactly a head-turner and lacks the power of some of its competitors.
| Ground clearance | 8.2 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 108.9 in |
| GVWR | 5137 - 5357 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3649 - 4076 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 2000 - 3000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 44.10 in |
| Rear legroom | 41.70 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in, 41.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 58.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 56.00 in |
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 19 city / 26 highway
Now the Jeep Grand Cherokee, let me tell you, it's a real beauty. With its rugged exterior and luxurious interior, it's a top contender in the SUV market.
And let's not forget about its impressive off-road capabilities, making it a true champion in its class.
| Ground clearance | 8.4 - 11.3 in |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 116.7 in |
| GVWR | 6050 lbs |
| Payload | 1 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4238 - 4784 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 7200 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.30 in |
| Rear legroom | 38.20 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 57.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 56.00 in |
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 21 city / 24 highway
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is the ultimate off-road machine, with its rugged design and powerful performance capabilities.
It's sure to take you on the adventure of a lifetime.
| Horsepower / Torque | 470 hp / 470 lb.ft |
| Axle ratio | 3.5 - 4.1 |
| Towing capacity | 5500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 118.4 in |
| GVWR | 5300 - 6100 lbs |
| Payload | 1 lbs |
| Ground clearance | 9.7 - 10.8 in |
| Curb weight | 4167 - 5103 lbs |
Kia Sorento
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 29 highway
The Kia Sorento is a versatile and practical SUV that offers plenty of space and features for its price point.
It's a great choice for families or anyone who needs a reliable and comfortable ride.
| Ground clearance | 6.9 - 8.2 in |
| Number of seats | 6 - 7 |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 in |
| GVWR | 5357 - 5468 lbs |
| Curb weight | 3794 - 4120 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 2000 - 3500 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.40 in |
| Rear legroom | 41.70 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 56.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 55.00 in |
Kia Telluride
Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 20 city / 26 highway
The Kia Telluride is an impressive SUV that offers plenty of space, comfort, and features for its price point. Its strong points include a spacious and well-designed interior, a smooth and comfortable ride, and plenty of safety and technology features.
On the downside, some may find the fuel economy to be a bit lacking, and the infotainment system can be a bit confusing to navigate at times. Overall, the Telluride is a solid choice for families in need of a reliable and spacious SUV.
| Ground clearance | 8.0 in |
| Number of seats | 7 - 8 |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 in |
| GVWR | 5578 - 5917 lbs |
| Curb weight | 4112 - 4354 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 5000 lbs |
| Front legroom | 41.40 in |
| Rear legroom | 42.40 in |
| Front headroom | 40.00 in, 41.00 in |
| Rear headroom | 59.00 in |
| Rear hip room | 58.00 in |
Nick Marchenko, PhD
Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist
Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.
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