Cartelligent clients love Jeeps for their rugged good looks, cargo capacity, and off-road capability. We’ve compiled the details for three of our most popular models the Wrangler and Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee SUVs.
Wrangler vs. Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee?
In this article, we’ve configured a sample vehicle for each car and then examined some of the key differentiating factors. We’ve based our sample models on popular choices among Cartelligent clients.
- 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4×4: Our sample Wrangler is an Unlimited Sport 4×4 with touchscreen display and a three-piece hard top. MSRP as configured is $33,465.
- 2017 Jeep Cherokee Limited 4×4: We’ve chosen a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Limited. Features include all-wheel drive, navigation, full sunroof, and leather-trimmed bucket seats. MSRP as configured is $37,185.
- 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4×4: We’ve equipped a sample 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee with all-wheel drive, panoramic sunroof, navigation, blind-spot monitoring, and leather seats. MSRP as configured is $45,885.
Vehicle Comparison
We’ll look at the features of each vehicle side-by-side.
| Wrangler | Cherokee | Grand Cherokee | |
| Model Type | 2016 Wrangler Unlimited | 2016 Cherokee Limited | 2017 Grand Cherokee Limited |
| MSRP | $33,465 | $37,185 | $44,204 |
Engine and Fuel Economy
| Wrangler | Cherokee | Grand Cherokee | |
| Engine | 3.6L V6 | 2.4L I4 | 3.6L V6 |
| Horsepower | 285 | 184 | 295 |
| City mpg | 16 | 21 | 18 |
| Highway mpg | 21 | 28 | 25 |
The Wrangler and Grand Cherokee both offer a more powerful engine, while the Cherokee has the highest fuel economy.
Capacities
| Wrangler | Cherokee | Grand Cherokee | |
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo volume (behind seats) | 31.5 ft3 | 24.6 ft3 | 36.3 ft3 |
| Cargo volume (rear seats folded) | 70.6 ft3 | 58.9 ft3 | 68.35 ft3 |
The Wrangler offers the most cargo volume when all rows of seats are folded down while the Grand Cherokee offers the most cargo capacity when the seats are upright.
Safety
| Wrangler | Cherokee | Grand Cherokee | |
| Rearview camera | Not available | Available | Available |
| Crash prevention | Not available | Available | Available |
The Wrangler is designed more as an off-road vehicle than for city driving; both the Chrokee and Grand Cherokee offer a number of safety and convenience features.
Cost to purchase: Wrangler vs. Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee
First, we’ll examine the cost of each when purchased. All payments represent pricing based on market conditions at the time of writing.
| Wrangler | Cherokee | Grand Cherokee | |
| MSRP | $33,465 | $37,185 | $44,204 |
| Down payment | $2,500 | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Monthly payment (inc. tax) | $605 | $660 | $850 |
| Total of payments over five years | $38,195 | $41,440 | $52,650 |
The Wrangler is around $50/month less than the Cherokee and saves about $3,200 in payments over the course of five years. The Grand Cherokee is about $190 more per month than the Cherokee and costs about $11,200 more over the course of the loan.
Cost to lease: Wrangler vs. Cherokee vs. Grand CherokeeNext, we’ll compare the three vehicles on a three-year, 12,000 mile/year lease.
| Wrangler | Cherokee | Grand Cherokee | |
| MSRP | $33,465 | $37,185 | $44,204 |
| Down payment | $2,500 | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Monthly payment (inc. tax) | $325 | $360 | $495 |
| Lease disposition fee | $350 | $350 | $350 |
| Total of payments over three years | $14,225 | $15,450 | $20,175 |
The Wrangler is again the lowest cost option, saving about $35/month and $1,200 over the course of the lease. The Grand Cherokee is about $4,700 higher than the Cherokee and leases for $135 more per month.
Which to buy: Wrangler, Cherokee or Grand Cherokee?
All three vehicles can be fantastic options depending on your personal circumstances. Your Cartelligent agent can talk you through the pros and cons of each vehicle (as well as any other brands) to help you make an educated decision.
Whether you want a new Jeep or any other new car, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.