2018 Toyota 4Runner, 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2018 Ford Explorer Comparison - Which Should You Buy?
Detailed comparison of 2018 Toyota 4Runner, 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2018 Ford Explorer. Compare specs, reliability, features, and value to find the best choice for your needs.
Specifications Comparison
| Spec | 2018 Toyota 4Runner | 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 2018 Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 270 hp | 295 hp | 290 hp |
| MPG (City) | 17 | 19 | 17 |
| MPG (Highway) | 21 | 26 | 24 |
| MSRP (New) | $34,610 | $31,945 | $31,990 |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,550 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 1,590 lbs |
Overview
The 2018 Toyota 4Runner, 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2018 Ford Explorer are often cross-shopped because they sit near the same size/price band and can all serve as do-it-all family SUVs. Buyers usually compare them when deciding between true body-on-frame ruggedness (4Runner), a more upscale and performance-flexible SUV with real off-road capability in certain trims (Grand Cherokee), and a roomy, car-like three-row crossover (Explorer). Key decision factors tend to be seating needs (two-row vs three-row), towing and off-road use, long-term reliability, and fuel economy. If you want a long-term keeper with serious trail durability, the 4Runner stands out; if you want on-road refinement with a wide spread of engines, the Grand Cherokee is the most configurable; if you need three rows and easy everyday drivability, the Explorer is the practical pick. HEAD-TO-
Performance Comparison
The 2018 4Runner prioritizes durability and off-road geometry over speed. With the 270-hp V6 and 5-speed automatic, 0–60 mph is typically in the high-7 to low-8 second range (commonly around 7.7–8.2 seconds depending on drivetrain and testing). Steering is slower, body roll is noticeable, and it feels truck-like, but it’s confidence-inspiring on rough roads, trails, and in snow with 4WD. The 2018 Grand Cherokee has the widest performance spread. The 3.6 V6 typically runs 0–60 in about 7.1–7.5 seconds, while the 5.7 V8 is often in the low-6s. The SRT is commonly around 4.3–4.7 seconds, and the Trackhawk can dip into the mid-3-second range with launch control and optimal traction. On-road, it’s the most “SUV that can drive like a car,” with strong braking and composed highway manners, and with the right 4WD system plus available air suspension, it can still handle serious off-road conditions (especially Trailhawk trims). The 2018 Explorer is tuned for family duty with responsive steering and a softer ride than the 4Runner. The base 3.5 V6 is typically around 7.3–7.8 seconds 0–60, the 2.3 EcoBoost often lands in a similar range with stronger midrange torque, and the 3.5 EcoBoost Sport/Platinum commonly runs about 5.8–6.2 seconds. Handling is more car-like than the 4Runner but not as buttoned-down as a Grand Cherokee SRT; it’s stable and easy to drive, with strong passing power in EcoBoost trims.
Reliability & Common Issues
2018 Toyota 4Runner (common issues) - Brake/rotor wear and occasional brake pulsation complaints: can show up by 30,000–60,000 miles depending on driving and tire choice; often improved with quality rotors/pads. - X-REAS suspension leaks (if equipped on Limited/Trail-style setups): typically a higher-mileage issue (often 70,000–120,000 miles); repairs can be costly because the system is interconnected, leading many owners to convert to conventional shocks. - Interior aging items: dash rattles, seat trim wear, and occasional power window/regulator issues can appear with age, though major drivetrain failures are comparatively uncommon. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee (common issues) - Uconnect screen delamination/“ghost touch”: a known issue on 2014–2018-era FCA products, often appearing in the 3–7 year window; fix is usually a screen replacement or head-unit service. - Air suspension (Quadra-Lift) faults if equipped: compressor or leak issues can develop over time (commonly 60,000–100,000+ miles); symptoms include uneven ride height or suspension warning lights. - Hemi valvetrain “tick” and exhaust manifold bolt issues (5.7 V8): some owners report ticking noises; manifold bolt breakage can show up with heat cycling and mileage (often 70,000+). Not universal, but a recognized pattern. 2018 Ford Explorer (common issues) - Water pump concerns on 3.5L V6 (internal pump design): while not every vehicle fails, the design can lead to expensive repairs when it does; failures are more common as mileage climbs (often 80,000–150,000 miles). Coolant smell, overheating, or coolant loss are warning signs. - PTU (power transfer unit) overheating/fluid breakdown on AWD models: can occur if fluid is neglected; issues often show up in higher-mileage use (60,000–120,000+), especially with towing or heavy stop-and-go driving. - EcoBoost-related maintenance sensitivity: on 2.3L/3.5L turbo engines, spark plugs, coils, intercooler/charge-air concerns, and carbon buildup can appear with mileage; consistent oil changes and correct plugs are important.
Interior & Features
The 4Runner’s cabin is durable and functional but feels the oldest in design and materials. Most trims seat five (optional third row available on some trims but is tight), and cargo space is strong for a two-row SUV: about 47.2 cu ft behind the second row and roughly 89.7 cu ft max. Tech is straightforward; higher trims add navigation and upgraded audio, but overall infotainment and driver-assist sophistication lag the other two. The Grand Cherokee offers the most premium feel in upper trims, with quieter road manners, better materials, and a wide range of infotainment options (Uconnect is generally user-friendly). It’s a two-row SUV with good space efficiency (roughly 36.3 cu ft behind the second row, about 68.3 cu ft max), and it excels in seat comfort and available luxury features (ventilated seats, panoramic roof, high-end audio, advanced 4WD systems, and air suspension on some trims). The Explorer is the space and seating king here because it’s a three-row SUV. Seating for seven is common (second-row bench) or six with captain’s chairs, and it’s genuinely usable for families. Cargo room is strong for the segment: about 21.0 cu ft behind the third row, around 43.9 cu ft behind the second row, and roughly 81.7 cu ft max. Technology and convenience features are family-friendly (available power-fold third row, available rear climate, and modern safety tech depending on trim/packages), though interior materials are more mainstream than luxury.
Value & Cost of Ownership
New pricing spread was widest for the Grand Cherokee because it ranges from mainstream to ultra-high-performance Trackhawk. On the used market today, the 4Runner typically commands the strongest resale values; it’s common to see it priced thousands higher than comparable-mileage competitors because demand is high and supply is tight. The Explorer is often the most affordable used buy for the space you get, while the Grand Cherokee can be a bargain in lower trims but can become expensive quickly in V8/SRT/Trackhawk versions due to fuel, tires, brakes, and higher-performance parts. Insurance is usually lowest to moderate for the 4Runner and standard Explorer trims, while Explorer Sport/Platinum and Grand Cherokee SRT/Trackhawk can be notably higher due to performance and claim costs. Maintenance and repairs generally favor the 4Runner over the long haul (simpler powertrain, proven components), while the Grand Cherokee can vary widely (a V6 Laredo is far cheaper to own than an air-suspension V8 model). Explorer ownership costs depend heavily on drivetrain: a well-maintained FWD model is typically cheaper than an AWD EcoBoost model that’s towing frequently. Resale value typically ranks: 4Runner best, Grand Cherokee middle (trim-dependent), Explorer lower (but that helps used buyers).
The Verdict
Best for families: 2018 Ford Explorer. The third row, family-friendly cargo flexibility (21.0 cu ft behind the third row), and easy road manners make it the most practical daily family SUV in this group. Best for commuters: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee (3.6 V6). It balances comfort, quietness, modern driving feel, and solid highway MPG (about 26 mpg highway) better than the 4Runner, while feeling more upscale than the Explorer in comparable pricing. Best for enthusiasts: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee (SRT or Trackhawk). If performance matters, nothing else here competes with 475 hp (SRT) or 707 hp (Trackhawk) and 0–60 potential as quick as the mid-3-second range in Trackhawk form. Best value overall: It depends on what “value” means. For long-term durability and resale value, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner is the best value even if its used purchase price is higher. For maximum space-per-dollar on the used market, a 2018 Ford Explorer (preferably with documented maintenance, especially on AWD models) is typically the best value buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more reliable, 2018 Toyota 4Runner or 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Both vehicles have their strengths. Check our detailed reliability section above for specific issues to watch for in each model.
Which has better resale value?
Resale value depends on condition, mileage, and market demand. Generally, 2018 Toyota 4Runner tends to hold value well.
Which is better for towing?
Neither vehicle is designed primarily for towing. Check manufacturer specs for light towing capabilities.
Get Your Complete Owner's Guide
Create a personalized guidebook for any of these vehicles with detailed maintenance schedules, specs, and more.
Create Your GuidebookRelated Comparisons
2022 Toyota 4Runner, 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Ford Explorer Comparison - Which Should You Buy?
suv • three way
2021 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Ford Bronco Comparison - Which Should You Buy?
suv • same year
2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Ford Bronco Comparison - Which Should You Buy?
suv • same year
2021 Toyota 4Runner, 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Ford Explorer Comparison - Which Should You Buy?
suv • three way