What To Know
- The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as two formidable contenders, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Grand Highlander, lock horns in a battle for SUV supremacy.
- Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Grand Highlander come equipped with a suite of advanced technology and safety features.
- The Grand Cherokee features a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system.
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as two formidable contenders, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Grand Highlander, lock horns in a battle for SUV supremacy. Both vehicles boast exceptional capabilities, advanced technology, and a commanding presence on the road. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of their features, performance, and overall driving experience to determine which SUV emerges victorious.
Performance and Powertrain:
Under the hood, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a range of potent engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-liter V8 that unleashes 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. These engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive power delivery.
The Grand Highlander, on the other hand, features a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. This setup generates a combined output of 243 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and confident acceleration.
Off-Road Prowess:
When it comes to conquering challenging terrains, the Jeep Grand Cherokee stands tall as an undisputed off-road champion. Its legendary Trail Rated® capability, coupled with sophisticated 4×4 systems and advanced traction control features, allows it to tackle rugged trails, steep inclines, and muddy paths with ease. The Grand Cherokee’s high ground clearance and impressive approach and departure angles further enhance its off-road prowess.
While the Grand Highlander is not explicitly designed for hardcore off-roading, it still offers capable all-wheel-drive performance for light off-road adventures. Its intelligent AWD system distributes power effectively to all four wheels, ensuring enhanced traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces.
Interior Space and Comfort:
Inside the Jeep Grand Cherokee, you’ll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin that exudes luxury and comfort. The front seats provide ample support and offer a commanding view of the road. The second row offers generous legroom and headroom, while the third row provides additional seating for up to two passengers. The Grand Cherokee’s interior is adorned with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and intuitive controls.
The Grand Highlander boasts an equally spacious and comfortable interior. The cabin is designed with meticulous attention to detail, featuring premium materials and a user-friendly layout. The front seats are supportive and offer excellent visibility. The second row offers ample legroom and headroom, while the third row provides seating for up to three passengers. The Grand Highlander’s interior is filled with thoughtful amenities, including a panoramic moonroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium audio system.
Technology and Safety Features:
Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Grand Highlander come equipped with a suite of advanced technology and safety features. The Grand Cherokee features a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system. It also offers a comprehensive array of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
The Grand Highlander’s infotainment system is equally impressive, with a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system. It also boasts an extensive list of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection.
Driving Dynamics and Handling:
On the road, the Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers a composed and comfortable ride quality. Its suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and stable ride. The steering is responsive and precise, offering excellent feedback to the driver. The Grand Cherokee handles confidently in corners and maintains its composure even on twisty roads.
The Grand Highlander offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. It handles predictably and provides a stable and composed driving experience. The steering is light and easy to maneuver, making it effortless to navigate through city streets or long highway drives.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality:
The Jeep Grand Cherokee‘s fuel efficiency varies depending on the chosen engine option. The 3.6-liter V6 returns an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the 5.7-liter V8 delivers 14 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The Grand Cherokee offers a generous cargo capacity of up to 68.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
The Grand Highlander’s hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 35 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. It offers a practical cargo capacity of up to 84.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Verdict:
In the realm of SUVs, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Grand Highlander stand as formidable contenders, each possessing unique strengths and capabilities. The Grand Cherokee reigns supreme in off-road prowess and offers a more powerful engine lineup. However, the Grand Highlander counters with superior fuel efficiency, a more spacious interior, and a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features.
Ultimately, the choice between these two exceptional SUVs depends on individual preferences and priorities. If you seek an SUV that excels in off-road adventures and delivers exhilarating performance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is your ideal choice. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and a comprehensive array of features, the Grand Highlander emerges as the superior option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which SUV offers better off-road capability, the Jeep Grand Cherokee or the Grand Highlander?
Answer: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is the clear winner in terms of off-road capability, thanks to its legendary Trail Rated® capability, advanced 4×4 systems, and impressive ground clearance.
2. Which SUV has a more spacious interior, the Jeep Grand Cherokee or the Grand Highlander?
Answer: The Grand Highlander offers a more spacious interior, with generous legroom and headroom in all three rows of seats. It also boasts a larger cargo capacity than the Grand Cherokee.
3. Which SUV offers better fuel efficiency, the Jeep Grand Cherokee or the Grand Highlander?
Answer: The Grand Highlander delivers superior fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 35 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, thanks to its hybrid powertrain.