When it comes to choosing a Jeep SUV, many drivers face a tough decision between the Jeep Cherokee vs Jeep Grand Cherokee. Both vehicles offer a range of impressive features, but they cater to different needs. The Cherokee is a compact SUV, while the Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV. Understanding the key differences between these two models can help you choose the one that best suits your lifestyle. In this post, we’ll break down the primary differences to help you make an informed decision.
1. Size and Interior Space
One of the biggest differences between the Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee is their size. The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV, which means it offers a more nimble, city-friendly experience. It has a smaller footprint, making it easier to maneuver and park, especially in tight spaces. Despite its smaller size, the Cherokee still offers comfortable seating for five and a well-designed interior with ample cargo space.
On the other hand, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV, providing more space for passengers and cargo. It has a larger cabin, offering more legroom, especially in the rear seats. The Grand Cherokee is ideal for families or anyone who requires more space for passengers and gear. With up to 68.3 cubic feet of cargo space (when the rear seats are folded down), the Grand Cherokee can handle larger loads more easily than the Cherokee.
2. Performance and Engine Options
Both the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee offer strong performance, but the Grand Cherokee takes the lead in terms of power and versatility. The Jeep Cherokee comes with a choice of three engines: a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, and a 3.2-liter V6 engine. The 3.2-liter V6 engine delivers 271 horsepower and is perfect for drivers who need more towing capacity and power for off-road adventures.
In contrast, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a wider range of powerful engine options. Starting with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that provides 293 horsepower, the Grand Cherokee also offers more powerful choices, including a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 360 horsepower and even a 6.4-liter V8 in the Trackhawk trim. For drivers looking for extreme performance, the Grand Cherokee SRT and Trackhawk trims are equipped with supercharged V8 engines, offering up to 707 horsepower in the Trackhawk model. Whether you want a family-friendly SUV or a high-performance powerhouse, the Grand Cherokee provides more options to suit different needs.
3. Towing Capacity
Towing capability is another area where the Jeep Grand Cherokee excels over the Cherokee. The Jeep Cherokee is capable of towing up to 4,500 pounds when equipped with the available V6 engine. This is sufficient for hauling small boats, trailers, or other lightweight recreational gear.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee, however, offers significantly more towing capacity. With the V6 engine, it can tow up to 6,200 pounds, while the V8 engines increase this capacity even further. The 5.7-liter V8 allows for a towing capacity of 7,200 pounds, and the Trackhawk trim with its supercharged V8 engine can tow up to 7,200 pounds as well. This makes the Grand Cherokee the better choice for drivers who need to tow larger trailers, boats, or campers on a regular basis.
4. Technology and Features
Both the Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee come with advanced technology and features, but the Grand Cherokee offers more premium options. The Jeep Cherokee comes standard with the Uconnect® 5 infotainment system, which includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and available navigation. It also offers advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-departure warning.
Conclusion
The decision between the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee ultimately comes down to your specific needs. If you’re looking for a compact SUV that’s perfect for city driving, offers great fuel efficiency, and is capable of light off-roading, the Cherokee is a great choice. It’s smaller, more affordable, and still packed with features.
However, if you need more space, power, and towing capability, the Grand Cherokee is the better option. With its higher performance engines, larger interior, and enhanced towing capacity, the Grand Cherokee is designed for drivers who need more from their SUV.
