Compare and conquer: jeep cherokee vs buick encore gx – discover the best suv for your needs
What To Know
- The Jeep Cherokee has a more rugged and aggressive exterior design, while the Buick Encore GX is more refined and sophisticated.
- The Cherokee features a signature seven-slot grille and boxy lines, while the Encore GX has a sleek and aerodynamic body.
- Both the Jeep Cherokee and the Buick Encore GX have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The world of compact SUVs has two formidable contenders: the Jeep Cherokee and the Buick Encore GX. Both vehicles offer a blend of ruggedness, style, and versatility. However, they differ in certain key aspects, making it crucial to compare them before making a purchase decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the Jeep Cherokee vs. Buick Encore GX debate, examining their performance, features, design, and more.
Performance
Power and Fuel Economy: The Jeep Cherokee boasts a more powerful engine lineup than the Buick Encore GX. The base Cherokee offers a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The available 3.2-liter V6 produces 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Encore GX’s sole engine option is a turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder with 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to fuel economy, the Encore GX has the edge, offering an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined compared to the Cherokee’s 26 mpg combined.
Towing Capacity: For those who need to tow, the Jeep Cherokee has a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds, while the Buick Encore GX can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Features
Technology: Both vehicles offer a range of advanced technology features. The Cherokee comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Encore GX also offers a 7-inch touchscreen, but it includes a larger 8-inch option as well. Both vehicles offer a variety of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
Interior Space: The Jeep Cherokee has a more spacious interior than the Buick Encore GX. The Cherokee offers 54.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, while the Encore GX offers 48.4 cubic feet.
Design
Exterior: The Jeep Cherokee has a more rugged and aggressive exterior design, while the Buick Encore GX is more refined and sophisticated. The Cherokee features a signature seven-slot grille and boxy lines, while the Encore GX has a sleek and aerodynamic body.
Interior: The interior of the Jeep Cherokee is more utilitarian, with a focus on durability and off-road capability. The Buick Encore GX has a more premium interior, with soft-touch materials and a more upscale design.
Off-Road Capability
The Jeep Cherokee is known for its legendary off-road capabilities, thanks to its available four-wheel drive system and advanced traction control technologies. The Buick Encore GX, on the other hand, is designed more for urban and suburban driving and does not offer any dedicated off-road features.
Safety
Both the Jeep Cherokee and the Buick Encore GX have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Cherokee earned a five-star overall crash rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in all IIHS crash tests. The Encore GX also earned a five-star overall crash rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in most IIHS crash tests.
Price
The Jeep Cherokee has a starting price of $27,590, while the Buick Encore GX starts at $25,600. The Cherokee offers a wider range of trim levels and options, which can increase the price significantly.
Which One is Right for You?
The Jeep Cherokee is the ideal choice for those who prioritize off-road capability, ruggedness, and spaciousness. It is a versatile vehicle that can handle both urban and off-road environments. The Buick Encore GX, on the other hand, is a more refined and fuel-efficient option that is better suited for urban and suburban driving. It offers a premium interior and a comprehensive suite of technology features.
The Bottom Line
The Jeep Cherokee and the Buick Encore GX are both excellent choices in the compact SUV segment. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capability and ruggedness, the Jeep Cherokee is the clear winner. If you value refinement, fuel economy, and a premium interior, the Buick Encore GX is the better option.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Buick Encore GX has better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined compared to the Jeep Cherokee’s 26 mpg combined.
Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?
A: The Jeep Cherokee has more cargo space, with 54.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down compared to the Encore GX‘s 48.4 cubic feet.
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Jeep Cherokee has a more powerful engine lineup, with a maximum of 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque compared to the Encore GX’s 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque.