For over 80 years, Jeep has been producing iconic 4×4 SUVs. From military vehicles in World War II to modern daily drivers, Jeep has become synonymous with adventure.
With so many Jeep models available, it can be tricky to understand the differences between them. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover all of the key distinguishing features across the Jeep lineup to help you select the perfect model for your needs.
Whether you’re looking for serious off-road capability, luxurious comfort, or practical daily driving, read on to learn how Wrangler, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, Renegade and Gladiator models compare.
Jeep Wrangler vs Cherokee
The Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Cherokee represent two different classes of SUVs. The Wrangler is a traditional body-on-frame off-roader while the Cherokee is a modern unibody crossover.
Wranglers have solid axles, high ground clearance, and removable doors/roof for the ultimate open-air off-road experience. Cherokees offer a smoother on-road ride, more cargo space, and a lighter-duty 4WD system suited for all-weather family hauling.
Consider your priorities – serious off-roading or comfortable daily driving – when choosing between the rugged icon Wrangler or more practical Cherokee.
Jeep Wrangler vs Grand Cherokee
Like the Cherokee, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a more refined crossover SUV compared to the traditional off-road oriented Wrangler.
With its unibody construction, four-wheel independent suspension, and car-like handling, the Grand Cherokee excels at delivering a plush on-road ride. The Wrangler retains its body-on-frame build and solid axles for better articulation off-road.
Grand Cherokee offers greater luxury and technology in a family-friendly package. But the Wrangler remains focused on maximizing hardcore 4WD adventure over comfort.
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited vs Standard Wrangler
Jeep sells both two-door standard Wranglers as well as four-door Wrangler Unlimited models. The Unlimited provides added practicality for larger families.
Unlimited models have extra interior room and increased cargo capacity. The additional doors also make rear passenger entry and exit easier. But the two-door Wrangler retains a more iconic styling.
Both versions offer the same open-top fun and Trail Rated 4×4 capability. Choose Unlimited for added flexibility or the classic two-door Wrangler for a more authentic off-road experience.
Jeep Wrangler Engine Options
Wranglers offer a choice of engines including:
– 3.6L V6 (285 hp, 260 lb-ft) – Standard
– 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl (270 hp, 295 lb-ft) – Optional
– 3.0L V6 Diesel (260 hp, 442 lb-ft) – Optional
– 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl Hybrid Plug-in (375 hp, 470 lb-ft) – Future option
The V6 provides strong acceleration while the 4-cyl turbo boosts efficiency. Diesel models maximize torque and towing. The upcoming hybrid will deliver electrified performance.
Jeep Wrangler Trim Levels
The Wrangler is available in these trim levels from basic to luxurious:
– Sport – Vinyl seats, crank windows, basic radio – starting at $29,000
– Sport S – Power windows/locks, alarm – starting at $32,000
– Sahara – 18” alloys, body color fenders, upgraded interior – starting at $36,000
– Rubicon – Heavy duty off-road package, locking diffs, 33” tires – starting at $41,000
– Mojave – Desert-running suspension, 1” lift, 33” tires – starting at $43,000
– 4xe – Plug-in hybrid model – starting at $49,000
Jeep Cherokee Trims & Models
The Cherokee line includes these models:
– Latitude – Cloth seats, 17” wheels, rearview camera – starting at $27,000
– Latitude Plus – Dual zone climate control, 8.4” touchscreen – starting at $29,000
– Limited – Leather seats, 18” wheels, luxury features – starting at $33,000
– Trailhawk – Off-road suspension, tow hooks, skid plates – starting at $36,000
– High Altitude – 20” wheels, premium styling, 9-speaker audio – starting at $38,000
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trim Levels
Grand Cherokee trims range from well-equipped to ultra-luxurious:
– Laredo – Leather seats, rear park assist, push button start – starting at $37,000
– Limited – Power liftgate, ventilated seats, premium audio – starting at $43,000
– Trailhawk – Quadra-Drive II 4WD, tow hooks, all-terrain tires – starting at $45,000
– Overland – 20” wheels, Nappa leather, adaptive cruise control – starting at $55,000
– Summit – McIntosh 19-speaker sound, night vision, open pore wood – starting at $59,000
Jeep Renegade vs Jeep Compass
The Renegade and Compass are Jeep’s smallest, most affordable crossover SUVs. The Renegade is designed for urban adventures with bold styling and available MySky open air roof. The Compass delivers everyday practicality and efficiency.
Compass offers slightly more passenger and cargo room due to its boxier shape. Renegade provides more off-road ability with increased ground clearance and a Trailhawk model with low-range gearing.
Both make great daily drivers but the mini Jeep Renegade adds flair for the city. The Compass aims for value and versatility.
Jeep Gladiator vs Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Gladiator is essentially a Jeep Wrangler with a pickup truck bed. Based on the Wrangler, it retains extremely rugged body-on-frame construction and impressive off-road capabilities not found in other midsize trucks.
Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator has removable doors and a fold down windshield for an open-air experience. Its cargo carrying flexibility gives it an edge over the Wrangler for work and play. But the Wrangler Unlimited still seats five passengers more comfortably.
For maximum utility, the Gladiator pickup truck is the clear choice. But the Wrangler remains king for pure 4×4 fun.
Jeep Wrangler Pros
– Unmatched off-road capability and open-air freedom
– Iconic rugged style and round headlights
– Customizable with millions of factory and aftermarket accessories
– Available diesel torque and upcoming 4xe hybrid power
– Huge enthusiast community and 75 year history
Jeep Wrangler Cons
– Less comfortable and more noisy on-road than other SUVs
– Smaller cargo area due to removable top and doors
– Requires more maintenance than crossover models
– Poor gas mileage with standard V6 engine
– Can be expensive with custom upgrades and modifications
Jeep Grand Cherokee Pros
– Luxurious and comfortable ride for long trips
– Refined interior with plenty of premium features
– Better handling and steering feel than truck-based SUVs
– Excellent towing and hauling capabilities
– More family-friendly than Wrangler or Gladiator
Jeep Grand Cherokee Cons
– Not as capable off-road as solid-axle Wrangler or Gladiator
– Less headroom and cargo space than larger SUVs
– Can get expensive on higher Limited and Summit trims
– Reliability ratings not as high as some competitors
– 21 mpg combined fuel economy is just average
What is the difference in Jeep packages?
Jeep offers several different package options on their vehicles that bundle together popular features. These packages help customize your Jeep by letting you add functionality or styling updates beyond the base trim.
One common Jeep package is the Cold Weather Group. This bundle adds heated seats and a remote start system to make driving more comfortable in cold climates. There is also a Popular Equipment Group that includes useful features like an auto-dimming rearview mirror, roof rails, and a cargo cover.
For more adventure, the Off-Road Group equips your Jeep with rugged upgrades like all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and tow hooks for off-roading. The Advanced Safety Group enhances driver assistance with adaptive cruise control, parallel parking assist, and forward collision warning.
Finally, appearance packages like the Black Appearance Group feature blacked-out exterior accents and wheels for a customized look. Evaluating the different packages allows you to get the exact set of upgrades and options you want on your new Jeep without having to purchase unnecessary add-ons.
Test drive models with certain packages to see if the bundled features fit your needs.
Which Jeep package is the best?
The best Jeep package really depends on how you plan to use your vehicle. Here are some top packages to consider for different needs:
For off-roading, the Jeep Wrangler’s Rubicon package is a top choice. It adds upgraded drivetrain components like locking differentials, disconnecting sway bars for increased wheel articulation, and all-terrain tires. These features transform the Wrangler into an incredibly capable rock crawler.
For luxury, the Grand Cherokee’s Summit Reserve package is one of the most comprehensive. It includes practically every premium feature like quilted leather seats, open-pore wood accents, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system for a lavish experience on and off-road.
For technology, the Advanced Safety Group on models like the Cherokee adds desirable driver assistance through adaptive cruise control, parking assistance, blind spot monitoring and more to make driving easier.
For convenience, the Cold Weather Group adds heated seats, a remote starter, and other comfort features to make winter driving more pleasant. Evaluate your priorities to pick the optimal package. Testing them out on a test drive can help choose the right one for your needs and budget.
Frequently Ask Question what is the difference in jeep models
Which Jeep model is the most rugged and capable off-road?
The Jeep Wrangler is hands-down the most ruggedly capable off-road model in the Jeep lineup. Features like solid axles, heavy duty suspension, low range transfer case, and available locking differentials enable the Wrangler to conquer tough terrain.
What is the most luxurious Jeep SUV?
The Grand Cherokee Summit and Grand Wagoneer models represent the pinnacle of luxury in the Jeep lineup. They come equipped with premium features like open pore wood accents, leather trimmed cabins, and high-end audio systems creating a truly upscale driving experience.
Does Jeep make any fully electric models?
Not yet, but the 2024 Jeep Recon and 2025 Wrangler 4xe will be the brand’s first models to go fully electric. These new EVs will deliver rugged Jeep capability through electric power. The Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrids are available now.
Which Jeep SUV is the best for towing and hauling?
With a maximum tow rating of 7,200 lbs and payload of 1,200 lbs, the Jeep Gladiator pickup is the most capable hauler and tower in the Jeep truck and SUV lineup.
What is the cheapest Jeep model?
The most affordable new Jeep is the Renegade. Jeep’s small crossover SUV starts at just $22,000 for a base Sport model with front-wheel drive. Adding 4WD bumps the Renegade’s starting price up to $25,000.
Conclusion
After reviewing all of the key differences across the Jeep lineup, you hopefully have a better understanding of which model best fits your needs. The Wrangler remains the undisputed off-road champ while the Grand Cherokee, Cherokee and other crossovers offer more comfort and practicality.
Carefully consider how you’ll use your Jeep most – rock crawling, daily commuting, towing – and pick the model designed to excel at those tasks. Every Jeep delivers classic styling and 4WD capability at its core, but the available options, features, and pricing vary widely.
Whether you’re attracted to the iconic seven slot grille on the Wrangler, the upscale interior of the Grand Cherokee, or the affordability of the Cherokee, there’s a Jeep for every lifestyle.
Jeep’s diverse range of SUVs and trucks continues to provide something for every driver seeking adventure, utility, or luxury. As Jeep expands into new segments with models like the Gladiator and upcoming Recon EV, the possibilities grow even greater.
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