What To Know
- The Atlas’s interior features a clean and modern design, with intuitive controls and a range of advanced infotainment and connectivity features.
- Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Atlas, on the other hand, offers a spacious cabin, user-friendly technology, and a comfortable ride for everyday commutes and family adventures.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas are two popular midsize SUVs that offer impressive capabilities and features. While both vehicles excel in different areas, the question remains: which one emerges as the ultimate choice for off-road enthusiasts? To answer this, we’ll delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Volkswagen Atlas, evaluating their performance, features, and overall suitability for off-road adventures.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Jeep Grand Cherokee boasts a range of powerful engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, and a 6.4-liter V8. These engines deliver ample power and torque, providing responsive acceleration and smooth handling on both paved and unpaved roads.
The Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, offers a 3.6-liter V6 engine as standard, producing comparable horsepower and torque to the Jeep Grand Cherokee‘s base engine. However, the Atlas’s V6 engine might feel less powerful when tackling challenging off-road terrains due to its heavier curb weight.
Off-Road Capability
When it comes to off-road capability, the Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out with its legendary heritage and advanced four-wheel-drive system. The Grand Cherokee’s Quadra-Drive II system offers exceptional traction and control in various off-road conditions, including rocky trails, muddy paths, and steep inclines.
The Volkswagen Atlas, while not as renowned for its off-road prowess, still offers decent capability with its 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. However, the Atlas’s larger size and lower ground clearance may limit its ability to navigate extreme off-road terrains compared to the more agile Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating, a user-friendly infotainment system, and various premium features. The Grand Cherokee’s interior is designed to provide a luxurious and enjoyable experience for both on-road and off-road adventures.
The Volkswagen Atlas boasts a spacious cabin with ample seating for up to seven passengers. The Atlas’s interior features a clean and modern design, with intuitive controls and a range of advanced infotainment and connectivity features.
Safety and Reliability
Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
In terms of reliability, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a slightly better reputation than the Volkswagen Atlas. However, both vehicles have received positive feedback from owners regarding their overall reliability and durability.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for any vehicle, especially for those who plan to embark on long off-road adventures. The Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 3.6-liter V6 engine offers a combined fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while the Volkswagen Atlas with the 3.6-liter V6 engine provides a combined fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.
Price and Value
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas offer competitive pricing for their respective segments. The Grand Cherokee starts at around $37,000, while the Atlas starts at approximately $32,000. Both vehicles offer various trim levels and optional packages, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to suit their needs and budget.
Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas offer distinct advantages and cater to different buyer preferences. The Grand Cherokee excels in off-road capability, providing legendary performance and advanced features for tackling challenging terrains. The Atlas, on the other hand, offers a spacious cabin, user-friendly technology, and a comfortable ride for everyday commutes and family adventures.
Ultimately, the choice between the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas depends on the buyer’s priorities and intended use. For those seeking an adventure-ready vehicle with exceptional off-road capabilities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee stands as the superior choice. However, if a spacious and comfortable SUV for daily use and occasional off-road excursions is desired, the Volkswagen Atlas might be a more suitable option.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which vehicle has better towing and payload capacity?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers superior towing and payload capacity compared to the Volkswagen Atlas. The Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,200 pounds and has a maximum payload capacity of 1,400 pounds, while the Atlas can tow up to 5,000 pounds and has a maximum payload capacity of 1,282 pounds.
Q: Does the Volkswagen Atlas have a third row of seats?
A: Yes, the Volkswagen Atlas offers a third row of seats as standard, providing seating for up to seven passengers. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, only offers a third row of seats in select trim levels.
Q: Which vehicle offers a better warranty?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas offer comparable warranty coverage. Both vehicles come with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, the Volkswagen Atlas offers an additional two years of roadside assistance compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s one year of roadside assistance.