2021 Jeep Cherokee vs Jeep Grand Cherokee

Drivers near the Richmond, New Baltimore, and Detroit, areas, are asking about SUVs that have the aptitude to handle their adventures (both on and off the road). They also need the space and interior comfort for their family, friends, and cargo. That’s why they rely on the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

If you’re wondering which of these SUVs is right for you, the team at Dick Huvaere’s Richmond Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has put these two vehicles side by side. Read our comparison of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, then decide which one is the best fit with your lifestyle!

2021 Cherokee vs Grand Cherokee Performance

Both SUVs offer an array of engine options, so you can select the performance that matches your needs. Between the two vehicles, you’ll find 19 models that provide interior design and a range of power. Let’s take a look at their performance capability.

The baseline engine of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee is the 2.4L Tigershark® Multiair® 2 engine. The unit exerts up to 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. This combination adds up to a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. The engine’s friendly fuel economy nets an EPA-estimated 22 city/31 highway MPG.

The starting engine of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine. This engine can churn up to 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The standard unit has a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds when properly equipped. Its EPA-estimated efficiency is 19 city/26 highway MPG.

These standards vary across different trims of both vehicles, but the established trend holds across each subsequent edition. The Cherokee has capable towing and more generous efficiency, while the Grand Cherokee’s design emphasizes greater towing capacity.

In addition to the performance that helps you explore outdoors, both vehicles also offer a comfortable interior. Let’s take a look inside the two SUVs.

Cherokee vs Grand Cherokee Interior

These SUVs can each seat up to five people. You’ll want to make sure that everyone is comfortable when you go on a weekend getaway. How can you and your passengers relax as you drive?

This starts with the thermostat. Drivers maintain an ideal temperature that can help everyone relax with Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control. You and your passengers can establish different temperature preferences. This feature is available in varying trims of both SUVs.

While the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee have plenty of space for passengers inside, the Cherokee is a bit roomier. The 2021 Cherokee has a total passenger volume of 128 cubic feet, while the 2021 Grand Cherokee’s passenger volume runs to 105 cubic feet.

The SUV traditionally does, however, let you pack more inside. So, for those road trips that call for extra cargo space, each of these SUVs are also equipped with a 60/40 split. The folding rear seat gives you access to more room for all your belongings. The Cherokee has a maximum cargo volume of 54.7 cubic feet, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a top cargo volume of 68.3 cubic feet.

The rewarding interior design of the two SUVs also extends to the infotainment you can benefit from every day.

Which SUV Has the Best Infotainment?

Whether you are embarking on getaways or going from Point A to Point B on your commute, you are going to enjoy an SUV with quality infotainment options.

Both vehicles meet that standard. As they are equipped with an available Uconnect® touchscreen display, you can connect to apps that enliven your driving experience. The standard touchscreen in both the base 2021 Cherokee and base 2021 Grand Cherokee is a 7-inch display, while it is possible to upgrade both to a slightly larger 8.4-inch screen. The two SUVs both have the available infotainment features to connect drivers to their favorite technology brand.

The screen is a portal to connective features like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. These apps will keep you in touch with all your favorite podcasts and music. Plus, the integrated Voice Command with Bluetooth® can make hands-free phone calls, so you can keep up with the people you care about.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee and 2021 Grand Jeep Cherokee both offer a next-level music system: the available 9-speaker Alpine® Premium Audio System delivers a refined sound that can provide the soundtrack for any trip.

Both SUVs provide drivers with a range of infotainment that suits different tastes. Their safety systems, however, are deal-maker options for every driver.

Cherokee vs Grand Cherokee Safety & Technology 

With all your gear and loved ones in tow, you need an SUV that’s got your back. How do they measure up in terms of safety?

Both the 2021 Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee are safe vehicles. Drivers can operate them in daily commutes and challenging off-road conditions. You’ll also find a suite of safety technologies that are available on both vehicles, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Parallel and Perpendicular Park and Exit Assist System
• ParkSense® Rear Park Assist With Stop
• LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning

ParkSense® Rear Park Assist With Stop is an available system that helps you slide into tight parking spots. The system detects open spaces and steers the SUV. As you park, it prompts you to shift gears and use the brake and accelerator.

For added convenience that helps you stay in touch with your vehicle’s maintenance, consider the one-year trial of SiriusXM® Guardian™. This feature sends a monthly vehicle summary report and provides navigation. Drivers can even get a head start in the winter with its remote vehicle start. The yearlong trial of the service is available on the 2021 Cherokee, but standard on each edition of the 2021 Grand Cherokee.

When equipped with these safety and driver-assistive technologies, you’ll be more confident behind the wheel of either model.

Find the Right One for You!

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee are great SUVs that will serve you well in your endeavors through the areas of Richmond, New Baltimore, and Detroit, MI. The Jeep Grand Cherokee provides more towing power, but the Jeep Cherokee offers more efficient fuel economy.

Either way, you’ll get capable performance and smart safety features. Experience both models at Dick Huvaere’s Richmond Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Schedule a test drive today!