Unmasking the showdown: dodge durango vs. jeep grand cherokee l – battle of the beasts

In the competitive landscape of American SUVs, the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee L stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of ruggedness, performance, and family-friendly features. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee L to help you make an informed decision on which SUV best meets your needs.

Performance and Handling

Dodge Durango: The Durango comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. However, it also offers a more powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine that generates 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Durango’s handling is characterized by its responsive steering and well-controlled body roll.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L is powered by a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. It also offers an optional 5.7-liter V8 engine that generates 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Cherokee L features a sophisticated suspension system that provides a comfortable ride while maintaining stability in corners.

Interior Space and Comfort

Dodge Durango: The Durango offers a spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers. The front seats provide ample legroom and headroom, while the second-row seats are comfortable for adults. The third-row seats are best suited for children or occasional use. The Durango’s interior features high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L has a slightly larger interior than the Durango, with seating for up to seven passengers. The front seats are supportive and offer excellent visibility. The second-row seats provide ample legroom and headroom, while the third-row seats are more comfortable than in the Durango. The Grand Cherokee L’s interior features a premium design and advanced technology.

Off-Road Capabilities

Dodge Durango: The Durango is not primarily designed for off-roading, but it offers a four-wheel drive system with a low range for enhanced traction on rough terrain. It also features an optional off-road package that includes skid plates, tow hooks, and all-terrain tires.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L is known for its exceptional off-road capabilities. It offers a variety of four-wheel drive systems, including a Quadra-Trac II system that provides excellent traction in all conditions. The Grand Cherokee L also features an optional Quadra-Drive II system with an electronic locking rear differential for tackling extreme off-road challenges.

Towing and Payload Capacity

Dodge Durango: The Durango has a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds when properly equipped. It also offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,730 pounds.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L has a maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds when properly equipped. It also offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,420 pounds.

Fuel Economy

Dodge Durango: The Durango’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine and configuration. The base V6 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The V8 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L’s fuel economy also varies depending on the engine and configuration. The base V6 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The V8 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

Pricing and Value

Dodge Durango: The Dodge Durango has a starting price of $36,995 for the base SXT trim. The top-of-the-line SRT Hellcat trim starts at $83,995.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L has a starting price of $38,695 for the base Laredo trim. The top-of-the-line Summit Reserve trim starts at $66,445.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The choice between the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee L ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, towing capacity, and value, the Durango is an excellent option. If you prioritize off-road capabilities, interior space, and premium features, the Grand Cherokee L is the better choice.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: Both the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee L offer optional 5.7-liter V8 engines with the same horsepower and torque output.

Q: Which SUV has a larger towing capacity?
A: The Dodge Durango has a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds, which is higher than the Grand Cherokee L’s maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds.

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L has a slightly larger interior than the Dodge Durango, offering more legroom and headroom in the second and third rows.

Q: Which SUV has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is known for its exceptional off-road capabilities, thanks to its advanced four-wheel drive systems and optional off-road features.

Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The base V6 engines in both the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee L have the same EPA-estimated fuel economy. However, the Grand Cherokee L has a slightly better fuel economy rating with the optional V8 engine.