Which one should you drive? jeep cherokee vs volkswagen atlas

The automotive industry is witnessing an intense rivalry between two formidable compact SUVs: the Jeep Cherokee and the Volkswagen Atlas. Both vehicles boast unique strengths and appeal to distinct customer preferences. This comprehensive blog post delves into the intricacies of these SUVs, comparing their key features, performance, and overall value to guide your informed decision-making.

Performance and Capability

Engine Options and Power

The Jeep Cherokee offers a range of engine options, including a 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir 2 engine delivering 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, a 3.2L Pentastar V6 engine producing 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine generating 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.

The Volkswagen Atlas, on the other hand, is powered by a single 3.6L VR6 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. While the Atlas’s engine offers slightly more horsepower, the Cherokee’s turbocharged engine provides greater torque for enhanced acceleration and towing capabilities.

Off-Road Prowess

The Jeep Cherokee has a long-standing reputation for its off-road prowess. It features the Jeep Active Drive II 4×4 system with a low-range gearbox, providing exceptional traction and control in challenging terrains. The Trailhawk trim offers additional off-road enhancements, including skid plates, tow hooks, and all-terrain tires.

In contrast, the Volkswagen Atlas is not explicitly designed for off-road adventures. It lacks a low-range gearbox and has a more urban-oriented suspension setup. However, it does offer an optional 4Motion all-wheel drive system that improves traction and stability in slippery conditions.

Interior and Features

Cabin Space and Comfort

The Jeep Cherokee offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The front seats provide excellent support and adjustability, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. However, some reviewers have noted that the rear seats are somewhat cramped, especially for taller individuals.

The Volkswagen Atlas boasts a more generous interior space, with ample room for up to seven passengers. The second row of seats offers ample legroom and can accommodate even tall adults comfortably. The third row of seats is best suited for children or occasional use due to limited legroom.

Interior Features and Technology

The Jeep Cherokee comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trim levels offer an upgraded 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation, a premium audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.

The Volkswagen Atlas features a user-friendly 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Higher trims offer a larger 8-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, a premium Fender audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Features

The Jeep Cherokee has received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It comes standard with a suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels offer advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The Volkswagen Atlas has also received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It comes standard with similar safety features as the Cherokee, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features such as lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.

Reliability

Both the Jeep Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas have received mixed reliability ratings from consumer reports. The Cherokee has been known to experience occasional issues with its electrical system and transmission, while the Atlas has faced some reported problems with its engine and fuel system. However, both vehicles have undergone significant improvements in recent years, and their overall reliability has improved.

Value and Pricing

Starting Prices

The Jeep Cherokee has a starting price of $27,490 for the base Latitude trim. The Volkswagen Atlas starts at a higher price of $32,565 for the S trim.

Trim Levels and Options

The Jeep Cherokee offers a range of trim levels, including Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Trailhawk, and Overland. Each trim offers a different combination of features and capabilities, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs.

The Volkswagen Atlas also offers a variety of trim levels, including S, SE, SEL, SEL R-Line, and SEL Premium. Similar to the Cherokee, each trim level offers a unique set of features and options, allowing buyers to find the right combination for their budget and preferences.

Final Note: The Verdict on Jeep Cherokee vs Volkswagen Atlas

The Jeep Cherokee and Volkswagen Atlas are both excellent choices in the compact SUV segment. The Cherokee offers exceptional off-road capabilities and a rugged exterior, while the Atlas provides a more spacious interior and a refined driving experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road adventures, the Cherokee is the clear winner. However, if interior space, comfort, and overall refinement are your top priorities, the Atlas is the more suitable choice.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency?

The Jeep Cherokee with the 2.4L engine offers better fuel efficiency than the Volkswagen Atlas, with an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway compared to the Atlas’s 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?

The Volkswagen Atlas has a slightly more powerful engine than the Jeep Cherokee, with its 3.6L VR6 engine producing 276 horsepower compared to the Cherokee’s 271 horsepower with the 3.2L Pentastar V6 engine.

Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?

The Jeep Cherokee has a higher towing capacity than the Volkswagen Atlas, with a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds compared to the Atlas’s 5,000 pounds.