Jeep cherokee vs nissan pathfinder: the ultimate showdown in the midsize suv arena
What To Know
- When it comes to choosing a rugged and adventure-ready SUV, the Jeep Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder stand out as two top contenders.
- Both the Pathfinder and Cherokee come standard with all-wheel drive, but the Cherokee has a slight edge in off-road capability.
- The Pathfinder’s V6 engine is rated for 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Cherokee’s turbocharged inline-four gets 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to choosing a rugged and adventure-ready SUV, the Jeep Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder stand out as two top contenders. Both vehicles boast impressive off-road capabilities, spacious interiors, and advanced technology. However, each has its unique strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of these two SUVs to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Capability
Engine Power
The Nissan Pathfinder offers a single engine option, a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The Jeep Cherokee, on the other hand, offers two engine choices: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.2-liter V6 with 271 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque.
Off-Road Prowess
Both the Pathfinder and Cherokee come standard with all-wheel drive, but the Cherokee has a slight edge in off-road capability. It offers the Trailhawk trim, which features a more rugged suspension, skid plates, and a locking rear differential. The Pathfinder’s Rock Creek Edition also offers enhanced off-road performance, but it falls short of the Cherokee’s Trailhawk.
Interior and Comfort
Passenger Space
The Pathfinder boasts a more spacious interior than the Cherokee. It offers seating for up to eight passengers with three rows, while the Cherokee only seats five. Both vehicles provide ample legroom and headroom in the front and second rows.
Cargo Capacity
The Pathfinder has a larger cargo capacity than the Cherokee. With the third row folded down, it offers up to 45 cubic feet of space, compared to 27 cubic feet in the Cherokee. This makes the Pathfinder a better choice for families or those who need to haul large items.
Technology and Features
Infotainment Systems
The Pathfinder comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Cherokee offers a 7-inch touchscreen. Both systems feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as navigation and a variety of apps. The Pathfinder’s system is slightly more user-friendly and offers a larger screen.
Safety Features
Both the Pathfinder and Cherokee offer a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pathfinder adds adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert as standard features.
Fuel Economy
The Pathfinder has a better fuel economy rating than the Cherokee. The Pathfinder’s V6 engine is rated for 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Cherokee’s turbocharged inline-four gets 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value
The Nissan Pathfinder starts at a lower price than the Jeep Cherokee. The base Pathfinder S trim has an MSRP of $34,990, while the base Cherokee Latitude trim starts at $36,340. However, the Cherokee offers more standard features, such as a sunroof and leather seats.
Takeaways: The Ideal Choice for Your Adventure
Both the Jeep Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder are excellent choices for adventure seekers who demand a rugged and capable SUV. The Cherokee offers superior off-road performance, while the Pathfinder provides more space, technology, and fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which SUV has a better towing capacity?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder has a higher towing capacity than the Jeep Cherokee. The Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds, while the Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds.
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Both the Jeep Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder have comparable reliability ratings. However, the Pathfinder has a slightly better overall reliability score according to J.D. Power.
Q: Which SUV is better for families?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder is a better choice for families due to its larger interior and more spacious third row. It also offers more safety features as standard equipment.