What To Know
- The Cherokee’s Selec-Terrain system offers multiple driving modes, including Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock, while the Defender’s Terrain Response system features a wider range of settings, including General Driving, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud and Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl.
- The Jeep Cherokee offers a wide range of features and technologies, including a Uconnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a large touchscreen display, and a premium audio system.
- The Cherokee has a wide range of trim levels and packages, while the Defender offers a variety of accessories and aftermarket parts to enhance its off-road capabilities.
When it comes to rugged off-road adventures, two iconic vehicles stand out: the Jeep Cherokee and the Land Rover Defender. Both renowned for their capabilities, reliability, and heritage, these SUVs have earned a loyal following among enthusiasts. But which one reigns supreme in the battle of the off-road titans? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects of the Jeep Cherokee vs Land Rover Defender to help you make an informed decision.
Performance
Engine and Power:
The Jeep Cherokee offers a range of engine options, including a 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir 2 engine producing 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2L Pentastar V6 with 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. The Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, features a 2.0L turbocharged Ingenium engine with 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. While both vehicles offer ample power for off-roading, the Defender’s superior torque gives it an edge in tackling steep inclines and hauling heavy loads.
Transmission:
The Jeep Cherokee is available with a 9-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. The Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, comes exclusively with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Both transmissions are well-calibrated and provide smooth shifting, but the Defender’s 8-speed transmission offers slightly better fuel economy and a more refined driving experience.
4WD Systems:
Both the Jeep Cherokee and the Land Rover Defender boast advanced 4WD systems. The Cherokee features the Jeep Active Drive I and Active Drive II systems, which automatically engage 4WD when needed. The Defender, on the other hand, has a permanent 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case, providing greater control and traction in challenging off-road conditions.
Off-Road Capabilities
Ground Clearance:
The Jeep Cherokee has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, while the Land Rover Defender offers an impressive 11.5 inches of ground clearance. This extra height gives the Defender a significant advantage in traversing rough terrain, allowing it to clear obstacles and navigate steep slopes with ease.
Approach and Departure Angles:
The Jeep Cherokee has an approach angle of 29.9 degrees and a departure angle of 32.1 degrees. The Land Rover Defender boasts an approach angle of 38 degrees and a departure angle of 40 degrees. These wider angles allow the Defender to tackle extreme off-road challenges, such as climbing rocky trails and descending steep hills without scraping its undercarriage.
Traction Control Systems:
Both the Jeep Cherokee and the Land Rover Defender are equipped with advanced traction control systems that optimize performance in slippery or uneven terrain. The Cherokee’s Selec-Terrain system offers multiple driving modes, including Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock, while the Defender’s Terrain Response system features a wider range of settings, including General Driving, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud and Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl.
Interior
Space and Comfort:
The Jeep Cherokee has a spacious and comfortable interior with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, offers a more rugged and utilitarian interior with less focus on comfort. While it has a similar amount of space as the Cherokee, the Defender’s upright seating position and sparse interior may not appeal to all drivers.
Features and Technology:
The Jeep Cherokee offers a wide range of features and technologies, including a Uconnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a large touchscreen display, and a premium audio system. The Land Rover Defender, while more focused on off-road capabilities, still offers a decent level of technology, including a Pivi Pro infotainment system with navigation and smartphone integration.
Customization Options:
Both the Jeep Cherokee and the Land Rover Defender offer numerous customization options to suit different preferences and needs. The Cherokee has a wide range of trim levels and packages, while the Defender offers a variety of accessories and aftermarket parts to enhance its off-road capabilities.
Reliability and Safety
Reliability:
Both the Jeep Cherokee and the Land Rover Defender have a mixed reputation for reliability. The Cherokee has been known to experience some electrical and transmission issues, while the Defender has had problems with its suspension and fuel system. However, both vehicles have undergone significant improvements in recent years, and their reliability has improved.
Safety:
The Jeep Cherokee has received a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Land Rover Defender has also received a 5-star safety rating from the Euro NCAP. Both vehicles come with a range of standard safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
Price and Availability
The Jeep Cherokee has a starting price of around $30,000, while the Land Rover Defender starts at around $50,000. The Cherokee is more widely available than the Defender, which has a limited production due to its niche market.
Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Jeep Cherokee and the Land Rover Defender depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, technology, and a lower price point, the Jeep Cherokee is a solid choice. If you demand extreme off-road capabilities, a rugged interior, and a unique heritage, the Land Rover Defender is the clear winner. Both vehicles are exceptional in their own right, and their legacy as off-road icons will continue for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Land Rover Defender has superior off-road capabilities with its higher ground clearance, wider approach and departure angles, and more advanced traction control systems.
Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?
A: Both the Jeep Cherokee and the Land Rover Defender have a mixed reputation for reliability, but their reliability has improved in recent years.
Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?
A: The Jeep Cherokee has a more spacious and comfortable interior with a focus on passenger comfort, while the Land Rover Defender has a more rugged and utilitarian interior.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Jeep Cherokee has slightly better fuel economy than the Land Rover Defender due to its smaller engine and more efficient transmission.
Q: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A: The Jeep Cherokee has a lower starting price than the Land Rover Defender.