Two Great SUVs, One Big Decision

If you're shopping for a used SUV near Dayton and you've narrowed it down to a Ford Explorer or a Jeep Grand Cherokee, you're in good company - these are two of the most popular midsize SUVs on the road. Right now at Midwest Best Auto Sales in Troy, OH, we have both in stock and at very similar price points, which makes the comparison even more interesting.

Let's break down how they stack up so you can make the call that's right for your family, your commute, and your budget.

The Contenders

Here's what we currently have on our lot:

Both are 2017 models, both have real 4WD/4x4 capability, and they're only $1,000 apart in price. That means the choice comes down to what matters most to you - not your budget.

Space and Seating

This is where the Explorer wins outright. The Ford Explorer is a three-row SUV with seating for up to seven passengers. If you've got a growing family, carpool duties, or regularly haul extra passengers, that third row is a genuine game-changer.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a two-row SUV with seating for five. It's not cramped by any means - rear legroom is generous - but if you need that extra row, the Explorer is your vehicle.

Off-Road and All-Weather Capability

Ohio winters can be rough, and Miami County roads don't get any easier after a snowstorm. Both of these SUVs have you covered, but in different ways.

The Grand Cherokee Altitude 4x4 is built on Jeep's legendary 4x4 platform. It's genuinely capable off-road and handles slick, icy roads with confidence. If you head out toward state parks, gravel roads, or rural routes around Troy and the surrounding area, the Grand Cherokee's off-road pedigree is hard to beat.

The Explorer Limited 4WD is more of an on-road 4WD system - great for snow-covered highways and slippery parking lots, and perfectly capable for light off-roading. For most Ohio drivers, it's more than enough.

Interior and Features

The 2017 Explorer Limited is well-equipped with leather seating, a SYNC 3 infotainment system, a power liftgate, and available second-row captain's chairs. It feels refined and family-friendly inside.

The 2017 Grand Cherokee Altitude is a sport-appearance trim with blacked-out exterior accents and a nicely appointed interior. Jeep's UConnect infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, and the cabin has a premium feel with soft-touch materials throughout.

Both are solid in this department - it comes down to personal taste. The Explorer leans more "family hauler," while the Grand Cherokee has a sportier, more rugged character.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

The Explorer has a reputation for being a dependable family workhorse, though it's worth noting that some model years had transmission concerns. The 2017 model is generally well-regarded.

The Grand Cherokee's 3.6L Pentastar V6 has a strong reliability track record. Overall ownership costs tend to be reasonable for the segment.

For either vehicle, we encourage you to review the vehicle history and, if you like, arrange a pre-purchase inspection. We want you to buy with confidence.

Which One Should You Choose?

Here's a simple way to think about it:

  • Choose the Explorer if you need three rows of seating, regularly carry five or more people, or prioritize a smooth, family-focused driving experience.
  • Choose the Grand Cherokee if you want a sportier feel, stronger off-road capability, and don't need that extra row - and you'll save $1,000 to boot.

Both are excellent used SUVs near Dayton, and honestly, you can't go wrong with either one.

Come See Them Both in Troy, OH

Midwest Best Auto Sales is located at 4536 North County Road 25A, Troy, OH 45373. We're open Monday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm. Both vehicles are on the lot right now - call us at 937-287-3350 to ask questions or schedule a test drive.

If you're ready to talk financing, our online credit application takes just a few minutes: apply here. We work with all types of credit and are committed to helping Miami County drivers get behind the wheel of a vehicle they love.