Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Dodge Durango: Which SUV Is The Best? Find Out 

Choosing between the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Dodge Durango is tough. But make no mistake: although both SUVs share a 3.6L PENTASTAR® V6 engine, they're engineered for different driving experiences.

For instance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee stays true to its bold, rugged attitude with multiple 4x4 systems, the Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System, and the Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension System. Whether you're driving through rain, sleet, snow, mud, or sand, the Jeep Grand Cherokee makes it easy to travel with confidence.

Meanwhile, the Dodge Durango emphasizes family-friendly versatility with three-row, seven-passenger seating and delivers impressive performance with a choice of a 5.7L HEMI® V8, 6.4L HEMI® V8, or Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 engine. So, which SUV is the best for you?

Quick Answer: If you're looking for a new SUV that can confidently handle severe weather and challenging road conditions, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the stronger choice. It offers multiple available 4x4 systems, a 293-horsepower 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine, and a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. On the other hand, if you're looking for an SUV that maximizes passenger space without compromising performance, the Dodge Durango is an excellent option. It offers three-row, seven-passenger seating and multiple available V8 engine options.

Keep reading for an in-depth comparison of the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Dodge Durango, including engine specifications, performance, interior features, dimensions, towing capacity, technology, safety, and more.


 
Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango Jeep Grand Cherokee 2-Row SUV Dodge Durango vs Jeep Grand Cherokee  Dodge Durango Three Row SUV 
 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango Specs & Features 

In recent discussions about the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango, there have been mixed opinions about the specs and features offers by both vehicles. With this in mind we have put together a side by side comparison review of the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango. Scroll below compare the Grand Cherokee and the Durango. 
 Category  Jeep Grand Cherokee  Dodge Durango
 Engine  3.6L PENTASTAR® V6 ENGINE 3.6L PENTASTAR® V6 ENGINE
 Horsepower  293 horsepower  295 hp
 Torque  260 lb.-ft. of torque  260 lb.-ft. of torque 
 Max Towing Capacity  6,200 lbs. 6,200 lbs. 
 City/HWY MPG  19/26 19/26
 Transmission  8-Speed Automatic  8-Speed Automatic 
 Fuel Tank Gallons  23 gallons  24.6 gallons (Winner)
 Passenger Volume  145 cu.-ft.   141 cu.-ft. 
 Cargo Volume Behind First Row 70.8 cu.-ft. 85.1 cu.-ft. (Winner)
 Cargo Volume Behind Second Row 37.7 cu.-ft. 43.3 cu.-ft. (Winner) 
 Cargo Volume Behind Third  Row Not Available  85.1 cu.-ft. (Winner) 
 First-Row Legroom  41.30 inches  40.3 inches 
 Second-Row Legroom  38.20 inches  38.6 inches 
 Third-Row Legroom  Not Available  33.5 inches 
 Speakers  6 6
 Ground Clearance - Approach Angle  20.5 (Winner) 18.5
 Ground Clearance - Breakover Angle  19.1 (Winner) 16.3
 Ground Clearance - Departure Angle  26.6 (Winner) 20.2
 Overall Body Width  77.5 (Winner) 75.8 
 Overall Height  70.8 72.1 (Winner)
 Overall Length  193.50 200.8 (Winner)

On paper, the key difference between the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Dodge Durango is space. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a two-row SUV and the Dodge Durango is a three-row SUV with 85.1 cubic-feet of max cargo volume.  Another key advantage the Dodge Durango has is that it comes available with the option to upgrade to multiple V8 engine options. But for what it's worth, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 system makes it a better option for drivers seeking more off-road adventure. If you still need more information to help you narrow down your options, scroll below to find an in-depth review about the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango prices, reliability, off-road capabilities, cargo space, engine configurations, and more. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango: Which SUV Cost More?

When it comes down to price, the Jeep Grand Cherokee typically cost less than the Dodge Durango. To be specific, the  Jeep Grand Cherokee MSRP typically ranges from $39,000 to $60,600, and the Dodge Durango typically ranges from $40,000 to $90,000. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango: Which SUV Has More Cargo Space? 

If maximizing cargo capacity is important, the Dodge Durango offers more overall storage space than the Jeep Grand Cherokee. With up to 85.1 cubic feet of cargo room behind the front seats, 43.3 cubic feet behind the second row, and 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, the Durango provides the flexibility to carry passengers and cargo at the same time.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers up to 70.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row and 37.7 cubic feet behind the second row. Although it doesn't match the Durango's maximum cargo capacity, it still provides ample room for groceries, luggage, sports equipment, or everyday gear.

Verdict: The Dodge Durango is the better choice for drivers who regularly need extra cargo space or the versatility of a three-row SUV. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, however, delivers plenty of storage for most daily driving needs while offering a more compact size that's easier to maneuver and park.

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango: Which SUV Has More Passenger Space? 

Inside, the Dodge Durango has more passenger than the Dodge Durango thanks to its standard three-row layout. In fact, with seating for seven, the Dodge Durango is a sensible choice for larger families, carpooling, or drivers who regularly travel with additional passengers. To be specific, the Dodge Durango offers 40.3-inches of legroom in the first row, 38.6-inches of legroom in the second row, and 33.5-inches of legroom in the third-row. 

On the other hand, the Jeep Grand Cherokee seats up to 5 and offers 41.3 inches of legroom in the first row and 38.2 inches of legroom in the second row. Of course, although it doesn't offer a three-row layout, the Jeep Grand Cherokee well-suited for smaller families and daily commuting. 

Verdict: Ultimately, the Dodge Durango is ideal for drives that need seating for 7 passenger, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a practical choice for drivers that prefer a two-row SV, generous passenger space, and refined interior. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango: Which SUV Has The Best Engine Configurations? 

When it comes down to the Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango performance, the Dodge Durango is the clear winner thanks to it's V8 engine option and the 710 horsepower SRT Hellcat model. But make no mistake. The Jeep Grand Cherokee stays true to it's roots by focusing more on balancing performance, efficiency and capability. 

To demonstrate the difference,  at peak performance, the Dodge Durango features a Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 engine that can get up to 710 horsepower, 645 lb.-ft. of torque, and has a max towing capacity of 8,700 lbs. 

And if you prefer a little less power, the Dodge Durango also comes available with a 360 horsepower 5.7L HEMI V8 engine that can get up to 390 lb.-ft. of torque and has a max towing capacity of 7,200 lbs. 

The Dodge Durango also offers a 295 horsepower  3.6L PENTASTAR® V6 ENGINE that produces 260 lb.-ft. of torque and has a max towing capacity of 6,200 lbs. 

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a 293 horsepower  3.6L PENTASTAR® V6 ENGINE  with 260 lb.-ft. of torque and has a max towing capacity of 6,200 lbs. If you want to upgrade, the Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers 324 horsepower 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo ENGINE  with 332 lb.-ft. of torque and a max towing capacity of 7,200 lbs. While it doesn't offer a V8 engine option, the Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers a solid balance of raw power, efficiency, and capability.

Verdict: If maximum horsepower is your top priority, the Dodge Durango is winner. If you're looking for a strong balance of power, efficiency, and capability, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a better fit. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango: Which SUV Is The Best For Driving Off-Road? 

In terms of off-road capability, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a clear advantage. While both SUVs offer four-wheel-drive, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is built for more challenging terrain with Quadra-Trac® 4x4 systems, Selec-Terrain® traction management, and greater approach, breakover, and departure angles. These features provide added confidence when driving on snow, mud, rocky trails, or uneven terrain.

Verdict: If you're planning your next hiking trip, or your regularly drive through rough trails and unpaved roads, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a stronger choice thanks to it's advanced 4x4 systems and off-road engineering. If you're driving primarily in the city or on the highway, and your prioritize performance, the Dodge Durango is reliable alternative. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango Safety Feature

Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Dodge Durango come equipped with a wide range of standard and available safety technologies designed to help protect drivers and passengers. However, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers several advanced driver-assistance features that aren't available on every Durango trim, giving it a slight advantage for buyers who prioritize the latest safety technology.

Available safety features on the Jeep Grand Cherokee include a Night Vision Camera, 360° Surround View Camera, Drowsy Driver Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward Collision Warning, and LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning. The Dodge Durango offers many helpful safety features as well, including ParkSense® Front and Rear Park Assist, a ParkView® Rear Back-Up Camera, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path Detection, and an Enhanced Accident Response System.

Verdict: If advanced driver-assistance technology is one of your top priorities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has the advantage. The Dodge Durango still delivers a strong suite of standard and available safety features, making it a dependable choice for families and everyday driving

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Dodge Durango Photos

Jeep Grand Cherokee Exterior Front  Dodge Durango Exterior Front 
 Jeep Grand Cherokee Exterior Rear  Dodge Durango Exterior Rear 
 

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Dodge Durango FAQ

Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Dodge Durango faster?

The Dodge Durango offers more powerful engines compared to the Grand Cherokee. With a 710 horsepower Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 engine option, the Durango is one of the most powerful gas SUVs.

Does the Grand Cherokee or Dodge Durango have a better interior?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango offer different interior styles. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has more of a sophisticated, luxury interior, while the Durango has a performance-inspired interior. So, the better interior depends on the type of style you prefer.

Ultimately, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a slight advantage over the Dodge Durango whenever it comes down to safety,  driving off-road, and gripping the road in severe weather conditions. On the flip side, the Dodge Durango is a stronger option for drivers focused on traveling with family and maximizing performance on the highway.  

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