One suv for the road, one for the wild: jeep cherokee vs kia sportage
What To Know
- The V6 engine delivers an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
- The turbocharged engine delivers an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
- If you seek a spacious, comfortable, and technologically advanced SUV with a strong reputation for reliability, the Sportage is a formidable contender.
The Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage are two highly acclaimed compact SUVs that have consistently impressed drivers with their off-road capabilities, versatility, and style. Both vehicles boast a loyal following, but which one emerges victorious in the battle of the SUVs? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of both vehicles, providing an in-depth analysis to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Off-Roading Capabilities
The Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage offer different powertrain options, each catering to specific driving preferences. The Cherokee comes standard with a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine producing 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. For more power, the 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 engine delivers 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The Sportage, on the other hand, offers a 2.4-liter GDI engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. For enhanced performance, the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Sportage is available with a six-speed automatic transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
When it comes to off-roading, the Jeep Cherokee stands out with its legendary Trailhawk trim. This trim features a Selec-Terrain traction management system, skid plates, and a rear locking differential. The Kia Sportage, while not as renowned for its off-road prowess, offers an optional all-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential, providing improved traction in challenging conditions.
Interior and Technology
The Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage offer spacious and well-equipped interiors. The Cherokee boasts a comfortable and versatile cabin with ample legroom and headroom. The Uconnect infotainment system features a user-friendly interface, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration.
The Sportage also impresses with its spacious interior and modern design. The infotainment system, UVO, is intuitive and offers a wide range of connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Sportage also features a panoramic sunroof, providing an airy and open feel.
Safety and Reliability
Both the Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage have earned impressive safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Cherokee received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Sportage earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.
In terms of reliability, the Kia Sportage has consistently ranked higher than the Jeep Cherokee in recent years. According to J.D. Power, the Sportage has received higher ratings for overall dependability and fewer reported problems compared to the Cherokee.
Fuel Economy and Value
Fuel economy is an important consideration for many SUV buyers. The Jeep Cherokee with the 2.4-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The V6 engine delivers an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
The Kia Sportage with the 2.4-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine delivers an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to value, both the Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage offer a competitive price point. The Cherokee starts at around $28,000, while the Sportage starts at around $25,000. The higher trim levels of both vehicles offer additional features and amenities, increasing the price accordingly.
Which SUV Is Right for You?
Choosing between the Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance and legendary Jeep heritage, the Cherokee is an excellent choice. If you seek a spacious, comfortable, and technologically advanced SUV with a strong reputation for reliability, the Sportage is a formidable contender.
Verdict: The Ultimate Victor
In the battle of the SUVs, both the Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage emerge as exceptional vehicles. The Cherokee reigns supreme in off-roading prowess, while the Sportage shines with its interior refinement, technology, and value proposition. Ultimately, the choice between these two outstanding SUVs depends on your driving style, lifestyle, and priorities.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Jeep Cherokee with the 3.2-liter V6 engine produces more horsepower and torque than the Kia Sportage with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Kia Sportage with the 2.4-liter engine achieves slightly better fuel economy than the Jeep Cherokee with the 2.4-liter engine.
Q: Which SUV has a higher safety rating?
A: Both the Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage have earned impressive safety ratings, but the Sportage received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS, which is slightly higher than the Cherokee’s five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Kia Sportage has consistently ranked higher than the Jeep Cherokee in recent years in terms of reliability, according to J.D. Power.
Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
A: Both the Jeep Cherokee and Kia Sportage offer user-friendly infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. However, the Sportage’s UVO system is slightly more advanced and offers a wider range of features.