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Learn How the Grand Cherokee SUV Measures up to its Jacksonville-Area Competitors

If you're considering an SUV, you have an abundance of options from which to choose. In fact, you might have too many, since it seems like automakers are adding new SUV models every year. However, if you want to go with an SUV that has stood the test of time and has the customer-loyalty and history that proves it's worth the investment, you suddenly have a lot fewer choices.

Three such models are the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and Toyota Highlander. We decided to see how a Jeep Grand Cherokee from Hanania Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram fared when placed in head-to-head matchups with the Ford and Toyota models. Read on to see how things turned out.

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Explorer

  • While introductory models of each SUV come in at nearly the same Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, the Grand Cherokee delivers better value over the long haul. It enjoys better estimate city and highway fuel economy, saving owners money every year on gasoline, and research shows that typical repairs costs are lower for the Grand Cherokee than they are for the Ford Explorer.
  • When it comes to off-road ability, the Ford Explorer is no match for the capabilities of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.  Few other SUVs are as well-equipped to handle the rigors of an adventure far from the paved road.  Multiple four-wheel drive options, a limited-slip differential, and Quadra-Lift Air Suspension mean it is a cinch to explore outside the city limits.  The Ford Explorer has none of that equipment and is not prepped to tackle any rugged terrain.

  • If you're fond of taking the boat out to St. Augustine Beach, it's noteworthy that the Grand Cherokee boasts a max tow capacity of 7,200 pounds. The Explorer caps out at 5,000 pounds.
  • Though starting models of the two SUVs are similarly priced, the introductory Grand Cherokee comes loaded with standard features that aren't included with the base Explorer. These include dual-zone climate control, push-button start, and Apple CarPlayâ„¢ and Android Autoâ„¢ smartphone integration.

Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Toyota Highlander

  • Again, the two models come in with extremely similar starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices. However, the Grand Cherokee gets the better highway mileage of the two, while once again offering Orange Park owners the lower out-of-pocket costs associated with typical maintenance and repairs.
  • The Grand Cherokee is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter V6 that generates 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, far outperforming the Highlander's standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder and its output of 185 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission featured in the Grand Cherokee effortlessly changes gears, while the Highlander's six-speed transmission experiences more stress on its way to top speeds.
  • Good luck towing anything of substance behind the Highlander, as it's rated for a maximum towing capability of merely 1,500 pounds. Meanwhile, the Grand Cherokee is rated to tow up to 6,200 pounds in its standard configuration.
  • There are standard features found on the introductory Grand Cherokee that either cost extra or aren't offered for the base Highlander, such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear parking aid, fog lamps, and dual-zone climate control.

Test Drive a New Jeep Grand Cherokee at Hanania Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram

We think it's pretty obvious that the Grand Cherokee offers the best value of the three SUVs for our Palm Coast customers. But seeing is in the eye of the beholder.  We invite you to visit our St. Augustine showroom, meet with one of our team members, and explore our Grand Cherokee inventory for yourself.


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