Jeep Grand Cherokee Vs Pilot: The Pros And Cons Of Both Suvs – Which One Should You Buy?

What To Know

  • Under the hood, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Honda Pilot offer a diverse array of engine options, each promising a unique driving experience.
  • The Jeep Grand Cherokee, with its powerful engine options, delivers an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for the base V6 engine.
  • The more potent V8 engine sees a slight decrease in fuel economy, averaging 14 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

When it comes to the realm of sport utility vehicles (SUVs), two names that invariably surface are the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Honda Pilot. Both vehicles have carved a niche for themselves in the automotive landscape, catering to distinct preferences and requirements. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Pilot matchup, unveiling their strengths, weaknesses, and the nuances that set them apart.

Performance and Power: Unleashing the Beasts Within

Under the hood, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Honda Pilot offer a diverse array of engine options, each promising a unique driving experience. The Grand Cherokee boasts a 3.6-liter V6 engine as its standard powerplant, generating 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more exhilaration, the potent 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, awaits.

The Honda Pilot, on the other hand, comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, churning out 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While these figures may seem comparable to the Grand Cherokee’s base engine, the Pilot’s sole engine option limits customization.

Capability and Off-Roading Prowess: Taming the Untamed

When venturing beyond paved roads, the Jeep Grand Cherokee asserts its dominance with its legendary off-road capabilities. Its rugged construction, advanced four-wheel drive system, and ample ground clearance make it a formidable contender in challenging terrains. The available Quadra-Drive II system with rear electronic limited-slip differential further enhances its off-road prowess, tackling obstacles with unwavering confidence.

The Honda Pilot, while not as adept as the Grand Cherokee in off-roading scenarios, still offers respectable capability. Its intelligent Variable Torque Management (VTM-4) all-wheel drive system distributes power effectively, ensuring optimal traction on various surfaces. However, its lower ground clearance and lack of specialized off-road features limit its adventures to milder off-road trails.

Comfort and Convenience: A Symphony of Luxury and Practicality

Inside the cabins of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Honda Pilot, a world of comfort and convenience unfolds. Both vehicles prioritize passenger comfort with spacious seating arrangements and ample legroom. The Grand Cherokee’s upscale interior features premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a user-friendly infotainment system, creating an environment of sophistication.

The Pilot, renowned for its practicality, offers a cavernous interior with versatile seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. Its thoughtful storage solutions and intuitive infotainment interface cater to the needs of families and those with active lifestyles.

Safety and Reliability: A Commitment to Peace of Mind

When it comes to safety, both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Honda Pilot inspire confidence with their comprehensive array of advanced safety features. Standard features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control provide a solid foundation for occupant protection. Additionally, both vehicles offer advanced driver assistance systems such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, enhancing safety on the road.

Reliability is another crucial factor for SUV buyers, and both the Grand Cherokee and Pilot have proven their mettle in this regard. The Grand Cherokee has consistently ranked well in J.D. Power’s dependability studies, while the Pilot has earned a reputation for durability and longevity.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact: Balancing Power and Responsibility

Fuel efficiency and environmental impact are increasingly important considerations in today’s automotive landscape. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, with its powerful engine options, delivers an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for the base V6 engine. The more potent V8 engine sees a slight decrease in fuel economy, averaging 14 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

The Honda Pilot, with its fuel-efficient V6 engine, offers an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Its superior fuel economy makes it a more environmentally friendly choice compared to the Grand Cherokee.

Pricing and Trims: Tailoring to Diverse Needs and Budgets

The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Honda Pilot offer a range of trim levels, each tailored to specific preferences and budgets. The Grand Cherokee’s lineup includes the Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit trims, with prices starting from around $37,000 and extending to over $60,000 for the top-of-the-line Summit trim.

The Honda Pilot‘s trim levels consist of the LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. Prices for the Pilot start at approximately $39,000 for the base LX trim and culminate at around $50,000 for the fully equipped Elite trim.

Takeaways: Unveiling the Victor in the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Pilot Rivalry

The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Honda Pilot are both exceptional SUVs with distinct strengths and appeals. The Grand Cherokee reigns supreme in off-road capability and performance, while the Pilot excels in practicality, fuel efficiency, and overall value. Ultimately, the choice between these two formidable contenders hinges on individual preferences, lifestyle requirements, and budget constraints.

What People Want to Know

1. Which vehicle has better fuel economy, the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Honda Pilot?

The Honda Pilot offers superior fuel economy compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Pilot’s EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway surpass the Grand Cherokee’s 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for the base V6 engine.

2. Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee more capable off-road than the Honda Pilot?

Yes, the Jeep Grand Cherokee boasts superior off-road capability compared to the Honda Pilot. Its rugged construction, advanced four-wheel drive system, and ample ground clearance make it a formidable contender in challenging terrains.

3. Which vehicle offers more cargo space, the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Honda Pilot?

The Honda Pilot provides more cargo space than the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Behind the third row, the Pilot offers 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to a cavernous 82.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Grand Cherokee offers 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row and 68.3 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

4. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity, the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Honda Pilot?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a higher towing capacity than the Honda Pilot. The Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped, while the Pilot’s maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.