The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee stands as a top-selling vehicle in America, a mid-size SUV celebrated for its versatile nature. It adeptly transitions from an off-road adventurer to a sophisticated luxury ride, a capable trailer-tower, and a comfortable family vehicle, especially in its three-row Grand Cherokee L configuration. Offering a range of powertrains, from a budget-friendly V6 to a powerful V8, and an eco-conscious plug-in hybrid 4xe, the Grand Cherokee’s price spectrum is broad, starting from $36,495 and extending beyond $80,000 with options. The L version begins at $42,630, while the 4xe starts at $59,865.
However, the Grand Cherokee’s jack-of-all-trades approach means there’s a diverse landscape of compelling alternatives, particularly if you’re seeking an SUV that excels in a specific area. In this article, we’ll explore 10 SUVs comparable to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, highlighting the variety of reasons why you might be drawn to the Jeep in the first place. From mainstream crossovers to luxury SUVs built for off-road adventures, we’ll guide you through options to determine if there’s a Grand Cherokee competitor that perfectly fits your needs.
Kia Telluride
The 2024 Kia Telluride emerges as an exceptionally well-rounded three-row crossover SUV. Starting at a competitive $35,990, it offers a richer suite of standard features, a more spacious and comfortable interior, a more refined cabin, and a smoother ride compared to the Grand Cherokee. Its distinctive, boxy styling, reminiscent of Land Rover, ensures it stands out in the crowded crossover segment. Whether your priority is accommodating eight passengers or seeking value-driven luxury, the Telluride delivers.
However, the Kia diverges from the Jeep in two significant aspects. Firstly, the Telluride is designed as a light-duty crossover, lacking the Grand Cherokee’s renowned off-road and towing prowess. While its X-Line and X-Pro trims add visual appeal, they don’t equip it for serious off-roading like the Jeep. And while the Telluride can tow a respectable 5,500 pounds, the Grand Cherokee, especially with its optional V8 engine, can handle up to 7,200 pounds. Secondly, all Telluride models are powered by a V6 engine with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 to 23 mpg in combined driving; a hybrid variant is not available.
Mazda CX-90
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is another premium three-row crossover from a mainstream brand, but its strength lies in its driving dynamics. The CX-90’s confident, balanced handling and refined, powerful V6 engine rival those of German luxury brands. Despite its power, it achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in combined driving. Alternatively, a quicker plug-in hybrid model surpasses the Grand Cherokee 4xe with a 25-mile all-electric range, followed by 25 mpg on gasoline. Notably, while Jeep restricts the 4xe powertrain to two-row models, the CX-90 PHEV can accommodate up to eight passengers.
However, Mazda’s focus wasn’t on maximizing space. The CX-90 offers a substantial cargo area and a functional third row, but many competitors, including the Grand Cherokee L, provide even more room. Similar to the Telluride, the CX-90 isn’t built for heavy towing or serious off-roading. And the infotainment system might not be to everyone’s taste. But if you’re considering the Jeep primarily as an on-road luxury vehicle, the Mazda, with a starting price of $39,595, presents a compelling, more affordable option.
Dodge Durango
Before the three-row Grand Cherokee became an option, the Dodge Durango served as a close alternative. It shares fundamental components, including its potent, towing-capable V8 engines, with the previous generation Grand Cherokee. Dodge has modernized it with updated infotainment technology, and the Durango offers a more refined on-road driving experience compared to the off-road-focused Grand Cherokee. Starting at $41,670 for the 2024 Dodge Durango, options like a V8 engine are also more accessible than on the Jeep.
Despite these advantages, the Durango’s age is apparent in certain areas. Its crash-test performance lags behind the newer Jeep, and its dashboard lacks the same level of opulence. Again, it’s not engineered for off-road adventures.
Subaru Outback
The 2024 Subaru Outback is a five-passenger crossover, or arguably a station wagon, depending on your perspective. Yet, for those considering the two-row Grand Cherokee, the Subaru presents a strong alternative. It’s both affordable and fuel-efficient, priced from just $28,895 and achieving an EPA-estimated 23 to 28 mpg combined (depending on engine and trim). With a standard 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and an impressive 9.5 inches on the Wilderness trim pictured, it’s more capable in rough conditions than most crossovers.
The Outback isn’t a luxury vehicle; it lacks the Grand Cherokee’s glamour and silky ride. And the Jeep surpasses it in serious off-road capability. However, if you need a spacious, comfortable vehicle to reach a remote campsite with your gear, the Outback offers exceptional value.
Toyota 4Runner
If your attraction to Jeeps stems from their inherent “Jeepness,” the focus on non-off-roading competitors might be frustrating. For those seeking true off-road capability, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner is a worthy contender.
Until 2010, both the Grand Cherokee and 4Runner occupied the luxury end of the off-road SUV spectrum. With the 2010 models, Jeep leaned into luxury, while Toyota took the 4Runner in a more utilitarian direction, a path it has largely maintained. The 4Runner is a rugged truck rather than a plush, leather-clad off-road haven. It has built a solid reputation for unwavering reliability. If you prioritize the Grand Cherokee’s luxurious features, the 4Runner, known for being loud, slow, and fuel-thirsty, might not appeal. But if you seek a blend of the Grand Cherokee’s spaciousness, the rugged character of a Jeep Wrangler, and the legendary dependability of a Toyota pickup, the 4Runner deserves serious consideration.
Hyundai Santa Fe
A subtle appeal of the Grand Cherokee for some buyers is its understated design, not overtly shouting “off-roader.” If you prefer a more truck-like aesthetic, even without needing to fully utilize off-road capabilities, the redesigned 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe could be ideal.
The new Santa Fe sports a boxy, utilitarian body enhanced with prominent fender flares. Hyundai emphasizes its wide cargo opening, even highlighting the tailgate width in the press release. The Santa Fe will continue to offer an off-road-inspired XRT model, but its off-road abilities will remain within typical crossover limits: suitable for snow, dirt, and mud. However, it’s likely to surpass the Grand Cherokee in on-road comfort and handling, while offering superior value and fuel efficiency, especially in its gas-electric hybrid variant. While the return of a PHEV version is unconfirmed, the new Santa Fe is expected to start in the low to mid $30,000s upon its spring 2024 release.
Lexus GX
As mentioned, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee can reach prices exceeding $80,000. For those considering higher-trim models, luxury-brand SUVs become relevant alternatives. These options have higher starting prices but align with the cost of well-equipped Grand Cherokees.
The Lexus GX is a starting point in this luxury comparison. The outgoing 2023 GX is comparable to a V8-powered 4Runner with a quieter cabin and more premium interior – a robust and reliable vehicle. The redesigned 2024 Lexus GX, the first major update since 2010, is now arriving at dealerships. The new GX 550 remains an off-road-capable luxury SUV, sharing its boxy design and durable mechanicals with the latest Toyota Land Cruiser. However, its new engine and suspension should deliver improved ride, handling, and fuel economy, complemented by an all-new, more refined interior. The 2023 GX 460 started at $58,875, and the 2024 GX 550 is anticipated to start slightly higher.
Land Rover Defender
The 2024 Land Rover Defender is another boxy luxury off-roader. Land Rover reimagined this classic vehicle a few years ago, maintaining its legendary off-road capabilities while achieving surprisingly agile on-road handling and incorporating a modern, luxurious interior. It offers both character and capability without compromising comfort.
The Defender is available in multiple body styles: the two-door short-wheelbase Defender 90, the standard four-door Defender 110, and the extended four-door Defender 130. Engine choices include four, six, and eight-cylinder options, though none are particularly fuel-efficient, and a hybrid version is not offered. Prices begin at $56,400 for the two-door, $60,600 for the four-door, and $69,100 for the extended 130.
BMW X5
If a world-class mid-size SUV is desired, and off-roading is not a priority, the 2024 BMW X5 is an excellent choice. It offers exceptional driving dynamics, with a standard 375-hp six-cylinder engine achieving an impressive 25 mpg combined, along with refined ride and handling. Its newly updated interior is technologically advanced yet user-friendly. The available plug-in hybrid model provides a 39-mile electric range. Remarkably, the X5 can match the V8 Grand Cherokee’s 7,200-pound towing capacity.
The X5 isn’t ideal as a large family vehicle, with only a small optional third-row seat. It’s also not inexpensive, starting at $65,200. However, for those who won’t encounter terrain more challenging than snow or a dirt road, the X5 is a compelling alternative to a fully equipped Grand Cherokee in the same price range.
Lincoln Nautilus
When luxury is defined by ultimate comfort and relaxation, the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus excels, surpassing the Grand Cherokee with its effortlessly smooth ride, handling, and acceleration. It features a plush dashboard with straightforward controls and greater cargo space than the five-passenger Grand Cherokee. Despite its strong luxury credentials, it’s priced comparably to a similarly equipped Grand Cherokee, with a starting price of $44,825.
A redesigned 2024 Nautilus, expected soon, promises even more advanced technology at a higher price point (starting around $50,000, likely with more standard features). While the new model is anticipated to be impressive, the current 2023 Nautilus remains a standout, often overlooked gem in the mid-size SUV segment. Like many crossovers, towing and off-roading are not its strengths.
