Choosing the perfect SUV can feel overwhelming given the abundance of options available. If you’re considering a Jeep, you’re likely drawn to their reputation for ruggedness and adventurous spirit. However, with models like the Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee L, determining the right fit for your needs can be challenging. This guide will break down the key differences between these models to help you find your ideal Jeep companion.
When it comes to size, these Jeeps offer distinct options to suit various needs. The Jeep Cherokee, classified as a compact SUV, measures a nimble 183 inches in length, making it ideal for navigating tight city streets and parking garages. Stepping up in size, the Jeep Grand Cherokee boasts a length of 193.5 inches, providing a more spacious interior for both passengers and cargo. If you require even more room, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L stretches to an impressive 205 inches, offering ample space for families and their gear.
Passenger and cargo space are crucial considerations when choosing an SUV. The Jeep Cherokee comfortably seats five passengers, making it a great choice for individuals or small families. The Jeep Grand Cherokee also accommodates five passengers in its standard configuration, but you can opt for a third-row seating package to expand its capacity to seven, perfect for larger families. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L takes spaciousness to the next level, offering standard seating for seven.
Behind the rear seats, the Jeep Cherokee provides 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 54.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which grows to a generous 68.3 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L provides 46.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, maximizing its utility with 84.6 cubic feet available when all seats are folded.
Each Jeep model offers a range of engine options to suit your driving style and needs. The standard Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 180 horsepower for a balanced performance. For those seeking more power, the Jeep Cherokee offers an optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 270 horsepower. All Jeep Cherokee models feature a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission.
The standard Jeep Grand Cherokee is powered by a robust 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque for ample power in various driving conditions. An eight-speed automatic transmission seamlessly handles gear changes. The Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers an optional hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to deliver a combined 375 horsepower and a substantial 470 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid powertrain also offers an electric-only range of 25 miles.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is powered by a strong 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for towing and hauling.
For those who crave off-road adventures, both the Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee offer Trailhawk trims equipped with advanced off-road features. The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk boasts Active Drive II with Active Drive Lock, all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, off-road suspension, a locking rear differential, hill ascent/descent control, skid plates, and tow hooks.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk takes off-road capability to the next level with Quadra-Trac II, Quadra-Drive II, off-road tires, four-wheel drive, adjustable air suspension, hill ascent/descent control, skid plates, and tow hooks.
Whether you’re towing a small trailer or a boat, Jeep SUVs offer varying towing capacities. The Jeep Cherokee has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, making it suitable for light towing tasks. With a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, the Jeep Grand Cherokee can handle heavier loads. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds, ideal for towing boats or trailers.
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many drivers. The Jeep Cherokee with the 2.4-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and a combined fuel economy of 24 mpg. The Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 3.6-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg.
The 2023/2024 Jeep Cherokee Altitude Lux has a starting price of $39,290, while the 2023/2024 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk starts at $42,890. The 2023/2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo A has a starting price of $38,290, and the 2023/2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland starts at $63,790.
Standard features in the Jeep Cherokee include smartphone connectivity, a six-speaker audio system, heated front seats, remote keyless entry, a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen display. The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes standard with smartphone connectivity, a six-speaker audio system, heated front seats, remote keyless entry, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. An optional passenger touchscreen display for rear-seat entertainment is available.
Ultimately, the best Jeep SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and off-road capability in a compact package, the Jeep Cherokee is an excellent choice. For those who need more space, power, and luxury features, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a great option. If you’re looking for the ultimate family hauler with maximum space and towing capacity, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the way to go.