When shopping for an SUV, you have more options than ever before. In the past, most choices came from Jeep, but now nearly every auto manufacturer offers at least one SUV, making it harder to find the right one for your needs. Check out this comparison of the 2017 Dodge Durango vs. the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee to determine which model is best for you.
Size
One of the significant differences between these two SUVs is their size. The 2017 Grand Cherokee seats five, while the Durango offers seating for seven. If you have a more prominent family or plan to transport more people often, the Durango’s third-row seats will be a better option. Unlike other SUVs with cramped third rows, the Durango’s rear seats have enough space for adults. It also offers a V-8 engine, providing more power and towing capacity.
Trim Levels
The 2017 Grand Cherokee comes in five trim levels. The base model has dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated side mirrors, and a 5-inch touchscreen display. Higher trims offer features like heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, extended leather upholstery, a self-parking system, and diamond-quilted leather. The dual-screen rear entertainment system is a great upgrade for families with kids.
The 2017 Durango has fewer luxurious features in the base trim. Higher trims include an 8.4-inch touchscreen display with voice controls and a nine-speaker audio system with a subwoofer. The Blacktop Appearance package adds black-painted wheels and other black exterior accents. Both vehicles have standard tech features like Bluetooth connectivity, a touch-screen display, a USB port, and an auxiliary jack.
Safety
The standard safety equipment on both models includes stability and traction control, multiple airbags throughout the cabin, and antilock brakes. The base Durango doesnโt include a rearview camera or rear parking sensors, but these are available as options and standard on higher trims. Other active safety features, such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control, are available in packages.
The top trim level of the 2017 Grand Cherokee includes these standard active safety features, front parking sensors, and a self-parking system. All trim levels come with a rearview camera.
Performance
For handling rough terrain, the 2017 Grand Cherokee is the top choice. It’s tough to beat a Jeep for off-roading, and even the luxurious SUV can handle all road conditions. The Trailhawk trim is the best for off-roaders. The Durango comes with a standard rear-wheel drive, with an all-wheel drive available.
Test drive both of these vehicles to find the perfect model for your lifestyle.