What To Know
- The Yukon is also a capable off-roader, with a four-wheel drive system, an optional locking rear differential, and a variety of terrain modes.
- After carefully comparing the Grand Cherokee L and the Yukon, we have determined that the Yukon is the victor in this battle of American SUV supremacy.
- While the Grand Cherokee L offers a compelling combination of performance, space, and technology, the Yukon’s superior towing and payload capabilities, more spacious interior, and comprehensive technology suite ultimately give it the edge.
The automotive landscape is teeming with exceptional SUVs, each vying for dominance in their respective segments. Two such contenders that have consistently captured the attention of discerning drivers are the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and the GMC Yukon. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two American SUV powerhouses, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics to determine which one emerges victorious in the battle for supremacy.
Performance and Powertrains
Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L offers a range of potent powertrains, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, and a 6.4-liter V8. The base V6 produces 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the V8s deliver 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, and 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, respectively.
Yukon: The Yukon boasts an equally impressive lineup of powertrains, including a 5.3-liter V8, a 6.2-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six. The base V8 generates 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, while the larger V8 cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine offers 277 horsepower and a robust 460 lb-ft of torque.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L’s towing capacity ranges from 6,200 to 7,200 pounds, depending on the powertrain and configuration. Its payload capacity maxes out at 1,640 pounds.
Yukon: The Yukon outperforms the Grand Cherokee L in terms of towing and payload capabilities. It can tow up to 8,400 pounds when properly equipped and has a maximum payload capacity of 1,880 pounds.
Interior Space and Comfort
Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L’s cabin is spacious and well-appointed, offering ample seating for up to eight passengers. The third row of seats is surprisingly roomy, even for adults. The interior materials are of high quality, and the overall fit and finish is impressive.
Yukon: The Yukon’s interior is even more spacious than the Grand Cherokee L’s, with seating for up to nine passengers. The front seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the second and third rows offer plenty of legroom and headroom. The interior design is stylish and modern, with a focus on premium materials.
Technology and Features
Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L comes packed with cutting-edge technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a suite of advanced safety features.
Yukon: The Yukon’s technology suite is equally impressive, featuring a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, and a comprehensive array of driver-assist systems.
Off-Road Capabilities
Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L is known for its off-road prowess, thanks to its available four-wheel drive system, locking rear differential, and advanced traction control systems.
Yukon: The Yukon is also a capable off-roader, with a four-wheel drive system, an optional locking rear differential, and a variety of terrain modes. However, the Grand Cherokee L’s more advanced off-road technology gives it a slight edge in this category.
Fuel Economy and Pricing
Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L’s fuel economy varies depending on the powertrain and configuration. The base V6 model gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The V8s have slightly lower fuel economy ratings, ranging from 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway to 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. The Grand Cherokee L’s starting price is around $38,000.
Yukon: The Yukon’s fuel economy is comparable to the Grand Cherokee L’s, with the base V8 model getting an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. The larger V8 and diesel engine have slightly lower fuel economy ratings. The Yukon’s starting price is around $55,000.
Verdict: The Champion Emerges
After carefully comparing the Grand Cherokee L and the Yukon, we have determined that the Yukon is the victor in this battle of American SUV supremacy. While the Grand Cherokee L offers a compelling combination of performance, space, and technology, the Yukon’s superior towing and payload capabilities, more spacious interior, and comprehensive technology suite ultimately give it the edge.
The Yukon’s higher price tag may be a deterrent for some buyers, but for those who prioritize space, power, and versatility, it is the clear choice.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which SUV has a better towing capacity?
A: The Yukon has a higher towing capacity of up to 8,400 pounds, compared to the Grand Cherokee L’s 7,200 pounds.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Grand Cherokee L has slightly better fuel economy than the Yukon, with the base V6 model getting up to 29 mpg highway.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Yukon has a more spacious interior than the Grand Cherokee L, with seating for up to nine passengers and more legroom and headroom in all rows.
Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
A: The Yukon and Grand Cherokee L both have advanced infotainment systems, but the Yukon’s system has a slightly larger screen and more features.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Grand Cherokee L has more advanced off-road technology than the Yukon, giving it a slight edge in this category.