It’s not easy to beat the Jeep Wrangler. This rugged SUV has an ionic nameplate dating back to World War II. However, being known for having unmatched off-road abilities, being durable, and having excellent resale value didn’t stop buyers from choosing a popular Ford SUV over the 2022 Jeep Wrangler.
This Ford SUV outsold the 2022 Jeep Wrangler
Only one Ford SUV managed to beat the best-selling 2022 Jeep Wrangler. But it may not be the option you think. We know the 2022 Ford Bronco is an attractive rival to the Wranlger, but it fell short.
car and driver shared that the 2022 Jeep Wrangler sold about 181,409 units this year, while the 2022 Ford Bronco sold about 117,057 models. That gives the Wrangler a 64,352 sales advantage over the Bronco.
However, the 2022 Ford Explorer crushed them both by selling 207,673 units. That puts it ahead of the Wrangler by 26,264. The Explorer actually experienced a six percent decline in sales compared to 2021, but still managed to make the top 25 best-selling vehicles list.
The Wrangler saw an 11 percent drop compared to 2021, and the Bronco could be responsible for taking some of its sales. Also, the Ford Bronco did not make the list of best-seller options for 2022.
But of course, the current shortage of semiconductor chips and other supply chain constraints may be responsible for limiting production and sales.
Is the 2022 Ford Explorer better than the Wrangler?
The 2022 Ford Explorer and 2022 Jeep Wrangler don’t exactly compare apples to apples. For example, the Explorer has an advantage by offering a third row. You have to upgrade to at least the Jeep Grand Cherokee L for three rows in a Jeep.
But the Jeep Wrangler can be converted into a convertible and has unmatched off-road capabilities. Although the Explorer Timberline has more off-road capabilities, it won’t be able to compete with the Wrangler on rougher trails.
The Explorer is a bit more athletic, mainly thanks to the ST-Line model. It can do 0-60 in less than six seconds, while the Wrangler does it in about 7.6 seconds. Plus, you can have a smoother ride and more responsive handling due to its unibody design.
The 2022 Wrangler has a traditional body-on-frame structure to increase suspension travel. But that results in a bumpier ride. However, both SUVs are criticized for having too much wind and road noise.
Towing is another Explorer advantage to consider. It can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped. The 2022 Wrangler tops out at 3,500 lbs.
Does the Wrangler or Explorer have better features?
The 2022 Ford Explorer has disappointing interior quality with hard plastics and cheap materials, unless you upgrade to more expensive trim levels. The 2022 Jeep Wrangler is a bit more modern and refined with high-quality materials.
In addition, the Jeep Wrangler has more modern and innovative technology. The Explorer’s 10.1-inch touchscreen has an awkward vertical layout for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But the Explorer has more standard security features.
It looks like the 2022 Ford Explorer beat out the 2022 Jeep Wrangler because it’s a bit more practical. It could be more comfortable, it can tow more, and it offers a third row. Perhaps in 2023, the Ford Bronco will make a comeback against both options.