Jeep Cherokee Vs. Grand Cherokee: Which SUV Fits You?

The Difference Between Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee at a Glance

The Cherokee has a standard hybrid engine for better MPG, but the Grand Cherokee has the edge in horsepower and torque.
The Grand Cherokee is the larger model than the Cherokee, making it preferable for families, while the Cherokee is an excellent choice for commuters.
Both models excel in comfort, though the Grand Cherokee brings more options for your copilot and rear-seat passengers with multiple extra screens and other luxury-grade features.
While you won't be lacking in safety upgrades in either SUV, the Cherokee does offer Active Driving Assist technology as standard, an available feature in the Grand Cherokee.
Test-drive both models at DARCARS Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Silver Spring to see which one your family falls in love with.

Get All the Details in This Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee Comparison

As you shop for capable and rugged performance perfect for your family vacations, it's only natural for you to come across a Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee review. With the upcoming release of the 2026 Jeep Cherokee, families will have access to a hybrid powertrain, standard Active Driving Assist, a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, and even more exceptional technology. However, the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee excels in passenger space, making it more enticing for growing families – especially if you go for the Jeep Grand Cherokee L.

Both of these models have a bevy of benefits that you can explore at DARCARS Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Silver Spring. Before you come in for a visit, let's take a digital tour.

Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee Specs: Engine, MPG & More

The Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee comparison begins with what's under the hood. As you'd expect from Jeep engineering, both engines do exactly what they need to enhance your errands and adventures. We start with the 2026 Cherokee: New for this year, the Cherokee comes with a fully hybrid powertrain with no gas option. The 1.6-liter turbo inline-four, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), makes up to 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. Especially notable are the SUV's MPG ratings: The Cherokee is estimated to reach around 37 MPG (Combined), pending testing, giving you one of the most extensive ranges in our lineup. Plus, this model is far from weak, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

But when it comes to strength, the Grand Cherokee has the upper hand, coming in strong with a towing capacity of up to 6,200 pounds when properly equipped. By default, you have a 3.6-liter V-6 engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, that makes 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The PHEV powertrain for the 4xe grade is a 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine that makes an incredible 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, though it can only tow 6,000 pounds when equipped.

However, you do not get a standard 4x4 system (unlike the Cherokee, which is always 4x4), and your MPG ratings will generally be lower than those of the smaller SUV: The Grand Cherokee gas powertrain is rated at 19/26/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined). The PHEV MPG is better, thanks to all-electric range, but the estimated 500 miles of range of the Cherokee still outdoes the Grand Cherokee 4xe PHEV.

Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee Size: Interior & Exterior Dimensions

In terms of size, the Cherokee is the smaller model. At 188.1 inches long, 74.7 inches wide, and 67.5 inches tall, this SUV strikes a great balance between being large enough to feel commanding on the road while offering enough mobility and maneuverability for city travel. You're certainly not lacking for space, either. At 68.3 cubic feet, your cargo space (up to the first row) is plenty for camping gear, coolers, tentpoles, and the necessities you need for a vacation out in the wild.

When you do have passengers, 41.3 inches of front legroom and 38.5 inches of second-row legroom keep them comfortable – you actually get 0.3 inches of second-row legroom over the Grand Cherokee. Without a moonroof, you'll also have the edge on headroom, at 40.3 inches of front and 38.1 inches of rear headspace. Any smaller-sized family would love the Cherokee as a spacious, comfortable drive with SUV-style versatility.

It's undeniable that the Grand Cherokee is the preferred model for larger families. Sitting at 193.5 inches long, 77.5 inches wide, and up to 70.8 inches tall, the Grand Cherokee has an unforgettable presence on the road. It has similar legroom and headroom to the Cherokee, though it offers slightly more trunk (37.7 cubic feet) and overall cargo volume (70.8 cubic feet).

However, a big bonus of exploring the Grand Cherokee is its three-row variant: the Grand Cherokee L. This three-row behemoth is 204.9 inches long, gives 30.3 inches of third-row legroom, and brings seven passengers along for the ride. It also boosts your maximum cargo space to 84.6 cubic feet with the back two rows down. If your growing family has a busy, active lifestyle, you should consider a Jeep Grand Cherokee L.

Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee Features: Comfort, Convenience & Tech

These two models are highly competitive when it comes to how relaxing and enjoyable they are, along with their ability to keep you connected and entertained for miles to come. Let's get behind the wheel of the Cherokee first. By default, you get a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, easily customizable to your preferences.

What happens to your experience as you climb trim levels? You gain access to leatherette seating (with heating and ventilation), a dual-pane sunroof, a foot-activated power liftgate (with adjustable height to simplify moving days), a premium audio system, and an Alexa® in-vehicle assistant.

For even more elevated luxury, check out the high-end trims of the larger Grand Cherokee. Friends and family can take control via the available Front Passenger Interactive Display or remain occupied by the optional rear seat entertainment package that includes Amazon Fire TV® for streaming or listening to music. An optional dual-pane panoramic sunroof gives a gorgeous view of the sky as you travel, while an available 19-speaker high-performance sound system further enhances the ambience of your drive. Your dual-zone climate control can also be upgraded to four-zone, ensuring every family member gets their preferred comfort.

When you shop new Jeep inventory selections at DARCARS Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Silver Spring, you'll find high-quality options. Both the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee have their perks, but if your goal is premium-level luxury and advanced appointments, the Grand Cherokee has the edge.

Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee Features

	2026 Jeep Cherokee	2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Body Style	4-door SUV	4-door SUV
Trim Levels	Cherokee Laredo Limited Overland	Laredo A Laredo Laredo X Altitude Altitude X Limited Overland Summit Summit Reserve
Engines	1.6L turbo I-4	3.6 V-6 2.0L turbo PHEV I-4
Horsepower	210	293 (V-6) 375 (PHEV)
Torque	230 lb-ft	260 lb-ft (V-6) 470 lb-ft (PHEV)
EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Comb)	approx. 42 / 33 / 37 (pending)	19 / 26 / 22 (Gas)
EPA-Est. MPGe (Comb)	N/A	56
Drivetrain	4x4	4x2, 4x4 avail
Transmission	ECVT	8-speed auto
Standard Suspension	McPherson strut/Integral link	Normal Duty
Maximum Towing Capacity	3,500 lbs	6,200 lbs
Standard Safety Features	Active Driving Assist Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning w/ Active Braking Blind Spot Monitoring w/ Rear Cross Path Detection Active Lane Management System Adaptive Cruise Control w/ Stop and Go Drowsy Driver Detection	Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning w/ Active Braking Blind Spot Monitoring Active Lane Management Adaptive Cruise Control w/ Stop and Go Hill Start Assist
Ground Clearance	8 in	8.4 / 10.9 in
Standard Cargo Space	33.6 cu ft	37.7 cu ft
Maximum Cargo Volume	68.3 cu ft	70.8 cu ft
Passenger Seating	5	5 (7 w/ Grand Cherokee L)
1st / 2nd Row Legroom	41.3 / 38.5 in	41.3 / 38.2 in
1st / 2nd Row Headroom	40.3 / 40.2 in (no moonroof) 38 / 38.1 in (moonroof)	39.9 / 39.4 in
Third Row?	No	Yes (w/ Grand Cherokee L)

Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee Reliability & Safety

The final point of our Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee comparison piece is safety and peace of mind. The Cherokee takes a firm lead with the introduction of standard Active Driver Assist, a revolutionary feature that guides you semi-autonomously (without replacing driver input). The Grand Cherokee has this option on the Overland and Summit trims. Additionally, the Cherokee brings a cascade of excellent sensor technology to keep you safe for every mile:

Rain-Sensing Wipers
Intersection Collision Assist
Drowsy Driver Detection
Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection
Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Cyclist Identification
Rear Park Assist with Rear Automatic Emergency Braking

Then, as you climb toward the Limited and Overland levels, you'll gain these optional benefits:

360-Degree Camera
Digital Rearview Mirror
Turn Signal-Activated Blind Spot

How does the Grand Cherokee compete? It's not far off. It offers many benefits, from the Rain-Sensing Wipers to the Digital Rearview Mirror, which you can unlock across distinct levels and upgraded packages. Active Lane Management, Advanced Brake Assist, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Hill Start Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Park Assist, and more are all readily accessible and easy to use via the steering wheel and infotainment controls. It even has some elements unavailable on the 2026 Cherokee, like a Head-Up Display.

However, the Cherokee has an advantage in standard features. The Grand Cherokee lacks standard Rain-Sensing Wipers, Drowsy Driver Detection, and Active Driving Assist, meaning lower-level trims won't aid you to the same degree as the base-level Cherokee. We expect the 2026 Grand Cherokee to be more competitive in this category as more information becomes available.

Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee Reliability & Safety

Hear Jeep Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee Reviews at DARCARS Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Ready to try out these models for yourself? You can explore our customer testimonials and make a decision after you test-drive these SUVs. Whether you find a brand-new 2026 Cherokee or a used Jeep Grand Cherokee as your favored travel companion, we'll be happy to see you off with a clear and concise deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Jeep Cherokee and a Grand Cherokee?

The differences between a Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee are size specifications, engine availability, and feature options. The 2026 Cherokee is brand-new to the scene, coming with a fully hybrid engine, standard Active Driving Assist, and a suite of comfort and convenience features. The larger Grand Cherokee is built with growing families in mind, arriving with an available three-row configuration, PHEV grade, and copilot/rear seat entertainment screens.

How much bigger is the Grand Cherokee than the Cherokee?

The size difference between the Grand Cherokee and Cherokee depends slightly on trim. By default, the Grand Cherokee is just a bit longer than the Cherokee (193.5 inches vs. 188.1 inches, respectively) with the same seating capacity and slightly more cargo space. However, the Grand Cherokee L is significantly longer at 204.9 inches and features third-row seating.

Is a Grand Cherokee considered a luxury car?

The standard Grand Cherokee Laredo is not considered a luxury vehicle, but as you climb trims, it becomes a reasonable comparison to other high-end SUVs. The Overland and Summit offer features such as rear-seat entertainment and a 10.1-inch Head-Up Display, which are amenities you could see on other premium vehicles. To see which trim best matches your preferences, apply for financing and test them out!

Our Featured Review Of The Jeep Grand Cherokee

Kari Biles

6/21/2025

We were in urgent need of a new car, as our previous one was truly on its last leg. From the moment we met Bonny at Darcars in Silver Spring, he was incredibly kind, patient, and informative. He walked us through everything he knew about the Jeep Grand Cherokee, took us on a test drive, and encouraged both my husband and myself to get a feel for the vehicle by switching drivers. Bonny genuinely wanted us to understand the Jeep inside and out. Throughout the process, he was reassuring, transparent, and happy to answer all of our questions. At no point did we feel pressured—Bonny was honest and respectful, clearly wanting us to feel confident and excited about such a big purchase. If you're in the market for a vehicle, I highly recommend visiting Bonny at Darcars in Silver Spring. We had a fantastic experience and will absolutely be returning in the future!

- Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

DARCARS Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Silver Spring