Jeep Cherokee vs Grand Cherokee

If you’re shopping Jeep SUVs, you may have come across the 2021 Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. While their names sound similar, there are quite a few differences between these vehicles. Here at Elkins CDJR, we want to help you learn where and how these SUVs diverge.

The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to choose the next new ride for you and your family.

Read ahead and see whether the Cherokee or the Grand Cherokee is ideal for your Belington, Beverly, or Elkins drive!

Battle of the Jeep SUVs: Interior Features

The most notable difference between the 2021 Cherokee and the 2021 Grand Cherokee is size. Perhaps not surprisingly, the Grand Cherokee is bigger. It’s a midsize SUV, while the Cherokee is a compact SUV. Despite this, both make room for five passengers inside.

If your family’s fully grown, you want lots of cargo space, or you’ll often have adults in the rear seats, the Grand Cherokee may suit your needs best. It offers 68.3 cubic feet for storage with the back seats folded.  

The Cherokee makes an excellent SUV for those just starting families—plus those empty-nesters looking to downsize. You’ll have up to 54.9 cubic feet for cargo in this vehicle. Hip room in the back seat will easily accommodate three kids across, though adults may want to limit themselves to two across.   

See our Jeep Cherokee review and Grand Cherokee review.

Advanced Technology for Entertainment

The Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee come equipped with the same infotainment interface. You get Uconnect® standard in both SUVs, complete with a 7-inch touchscreen. Use Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™ to pair up a smartphone and access your favorite apps.

When you upgrade to Uconnect® 4C NAV, you’ll enjoy a larger, 8.4-inch touchscreen, as well as integrated navigation. The larger screen makes it easier to see your maps in detail.   

Keep in mind, too, that the Grand Cherokee offers a rear-seat Blu-ray™/DVD entertainment system. If you’re often on road trips with the kids in tow, it’s a great way to keep them entertained.

Performance Specs: Power vs Efficiency

The 2021 Cherokee and 2021 Grand Cherokee are both capable Jeep SUVs. Whether your next excursion leads you down the highways or off the roads, you’ll find the features you need in both.

If you need to tow boats or trailers, the Grand Cherokee likely offers more for you. Pick any one of three available V8 engines, and you can tow up to 7,200 pounds in your wake! The Cherokee is best for towing jet skis or smaller boats, with a 4,500-pound towing capacity.

When it comes to fuel economy, though, the Cherokee has an edge—if ever so slightly. Its new turbo 4-cylinder engine sees an EPA-estimated 23 city/31 highway MPG. The Grand Cherokee offers a V6 engine that clocks in with an EPA-estimated 19 city/26 highway MPG.

Should I Buy the Jeep Cherokee or Grand Cherokee?

We hope you found this car comparison helpful! The 2021 Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee showcase some of the best that the Jeep brand offers. You’ll just need to decide which one fits your lifestyle.

The best way to do that? Schedule a test drive at Elkins CDJR.

We’ll answer all your questions about these midsize and compact SUVs and get you behind the wheel of both!