What To Know
- In contrast, the GMC Terrain presents a more sleek and sophisticated demeanor, featuring flowing lines and a bold front fascia.
- However, the Cherokee has a slight edge in terms of safety ratings, having received top marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Cherokee’s base four-cylinder engine offers up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the Terrain’s 1.
The automotive landscape is teeming with fierce rivalries, and the one between the Jeep Cherokee and GMC Terrain is no exception. Both these compact SUVs boast a loyal following, each touting unique strengths and attributes. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of their features, capabilities, and overall value to determine which emerges triumphant.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The Jeep Cherokee exudes a rugged and adventurous spirit with its iconic seven-slot grille and boxy silhouette. In contrast, the GMC Terrain presents a more sleek and sophisticated demeanor, featuring flowing lines and a bold front fascia.
In terms of dimensions, the Cherokee and Terrain are relatively comparable. However, the Cherokee offers slightly more cargo space with 25.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, while the Terrain provides 29.6 cubic feet.
Interior Features and Comfort
Inside the cabin, the Cherokee boasts a functional and user-friendly layout. Its UConnect infotainment system is highly intuitive and responsive. The Terrain, on the other hand, impresses with its premium materials and upscale design. It features a large touchscreen display and a customizable digital instrument cluster.
Both SUVs offer comfortable seating for five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom. However, the Cherokee provides a bit more rear legroom, making it more suitable for taller passengers.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Jeep Cherokee offers a range of engine options, including a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, a 3.2-liter V6, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The GMC Terrain, meanwhile, comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and offers a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as an upgrade.
In terms of performance, the Cherokee’s V6 engine delivers impressive acceleration and towing capacity. However, the Terrain’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides a more balanced blend of power and fuel efficiency.
Off-Road Capabilities
When it comes to off-road prowess, the Jeep Cherokee reigns supreme. Its legendary Trailhawk trim offers advanced four-wheel drive systems, skid plates, and an increased ground clearance, making it ideal for tackling challenging terrain. The GMC Terrain, while not as capable as the Cherokee, still offers decent off-road capabilities with its available all-wheel drive system and hill descent control.
Safety Features
Both the Jeep Cherokee and GMC Terrain prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. These include lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Cherokee has a slight edge in terms of safety ratings, having received top marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is an important consideration for many buyers, and both the Cherokee and Terrain deliver respectable numbers. The Cherokee’s base four-cylinder engine offers up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the Terrain’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine achieves 26 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Pricing and Value
The Jeep Cherokee has a starting MSRP of $27,995, while the GMC Terrain starts at $29,000. However, the Cherokee offers a wider range of trim levels and engine options, allowing buyers to tailor their vehicle to their specific needs and budget.
In terms of value, both SUVs offer a compelling package of features and capabilities for their respective price points. However, the Cherokee’s superior off-road prowess and lower starting price make it a more attractive option for adventure-seekers and value-conscious buyers.
Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Jeep Cherokee and GMC Terrain ultimately depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value ruggedness, off-road capability, and a lower price point, the Cherokee is the clear winner. However, if you prioritize a more sophisticated interior, balanced performance, and a slightly higher fuel economy, the Terrain is the better option.
Beyond the Comparison: Factors to Consider
In addition to the key aspects discussed above, there are several other factors to consider when choosing between the Jeep Cherokee and GMC Terrain:
- Reliability: Both SUVs have a good reputation for reliability, but the Cherokee has a slight edge in this area.
- Resale Value: The Cherokee and Terrain both hold their value well, but the Cherokee typically retains a slightly higher resale value.
- Brand Loyalty: Jeep has a strong brand following, which may influence the decision-making process for some buyers.
- Availability: The Cherokee and Terrain are widely available at dealerships across the country, but availability may vary depending on specific trim levels and configurations.
Key Points: The Verdict
The Jeep Cherokee and GMC Terrain are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a unique blend of features and capabilities. While the Cherokee excels in off-road performance and value, the Terrain impresses with its sophisticated interior and balanced performance. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
Both the Jeep Cherokee and GMC Terrain offer user-friendly infotainment systems, but the Terrain’s larger touchscreen and customizable digital instrument cluster give it a slight edge in this area.
2. Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
The GMC Terrain’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides slightly better fuel economy than the Jeep Cherokee‘s base four-cylinder engine.
3. Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
The Jeep Cherokee‘s V6 engine offers a higher towing capacity of 4,500 pounds, compared to the GMC Terrain’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine’s 3,500-pound towing capacity.