2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2025 Ford Explorer

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler retained its iconic, rugged design with a body-on-frame look, appealing to off-road enthusiasts. Notable updates included a redesigned grille for improved airflow and an integrated windshield antenna to prevent snagging on branches. The Wrangler offered various roof options, including soft-top, hard-top, and retractable sunroof configurations, allowing for a customizable open-air experience. The ability to remove doors and fold down the windshield added to its adventurous appeal.

In contrast, the 2025 Ford Explorer showcased a sleeker, more refined design with a restyled front end that enhanced its rugged appearance. The rear featured new LED taillights and a trim strip connecting them. Inside, the Explorer boasted significant improvements in materials and design, offering a more competitive and luxurious feel. Ford streamlined the trim levels, focusing on four main options, each catering to different preferences, from sporty to luxurious.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower, a 3.6-liter V6 with 285 horsepower, and a powerful 6.4-liter V8 producing 470 horsepower. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with various transfer cases and 4WD systems, including the Rock-Trac and Selec-Trac. The 4xe PHEV model provided 21 miles of electric range, combining efficiency with power. However, the Wrangler's ride quality on pavement was less refined due to its solid front axle.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured two EcoBoost engines: a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with 400 horsepower. All models came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and RWD, with optional 4WD. The Explorer offered multiple driving modes, enhancing its versatility. The ST-Line trim focused on aesthetics, while the ST model provided enhanced performance with a sport-tuned suspension. The Explorer delivered a balanced ride, with commendable handling and grip from its Pirelli tires.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler improved its towing capacity to 5,000 pounds for specific models, thanks to a new rear axle design. Inside, it offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power-adjustable front seats. The 4xe model included a 30-amp Power Box for powering accessories. However, ventilated seats were not available.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim featured heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an optional Premium Package with additional comforts. The second-row captain’s chairs were comfortable, but the third row was less suitable for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with a maximum of 85.8 cubic feet available.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen running Uconnect5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was faster and more user-friendly, with features like Off-Road Pages and Trails Offroad for exploring trails. Additional features included a wireless hotspot and dual Bluetooth phone pairing.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, featuring Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, and wireless smartphone integration. The system was intuitive, with Google Maps and app downloads available. The Explorer offered B&O sound systems, with the ST-Line featuring 10 speakers and higher trims boasting 14 speakers.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler added first- and second-row side-curtain airbags. It included forward collision warning as standard, with optional advanced driver aids like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The Wrangler had not been rated for 2024, but previous models received mixed safety scores.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came with Ford CoPilot 360+, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems. Higher trims included BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer had not been fully rated for 2025, but previous models received strong safety scores.