Dodge Durango vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

If you’re shopping for a new SUV, you may have considered the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Both offer strong performance, modern technology, and the versatility you need, but they’re different in size and capability. Plus, Dodge and Jeep have distinct signature design elements.

For Myrtle Beach shoppers, understanding how the Dodge Durango vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee compare can help you narrow down your options. In this guide, we’ll cover key differences between these two SUVs to help you decide which one makes the most sense for your lifestyle.

Dodge Durango vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee: At a Glance

Specifications and availability vary by model and trim.

Performance: Dodge Durango vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Performance is where these two SUVs differ most.

Dodge Durango

The Durango is built around power. The Durango GT HEMI V8 AWD produces 360 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque from its 5.7-liter V8. An eight-speed automatic sends that power to all four wheels. Depending on the trim, the Durango also offers more powerful V8 engines, perfect for those who want extra muscle in a family SUV.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Grand Cherokee takes a different approach. It’s available with a 3.6-liter V6 that generates 293 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, also paired with an eight-speed automatic. There’s also a 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo Engine that delivers 324 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque.

Winner for power: Dodge Durango

If you prioritize horsepower, torque, and towing, the Durango comes out ahead.

Towing Capability

If you regularly tow a boat, trailer, camper, or other equipment, these numbers might matter most to you.

Dodge Durango

When properly equipped, the Durango can tow up to 8,700 pounds. This gives it a clear edge if you want a midsize SUV with serious towing capability.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Grand Cherokee has a maximum rating of up to 6,200 pounds when properly equipped. It offers the best towing capacity in its class, but lags behind the Durango.

Winner for towing: Dodge Durango

Both SUVs can handle recreational towing, but if you’re looking for the highest maximum towing capacity, the Durango wins.

Seating and Cargo Space

Passenger capacity is another major difference between these two SUVs.

Dodge Durango

The Durango has three rows and seats up to seven, which makes it a better fit for larger families and anyone who regularly carries extra passengers. With the seats folded, it offers up to 85.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The standard Grand Cherokee is a two-row SUV that seats up to five, but the Grand Cherokee L adds a third row, bumping seating capacity up to seven. The two-row layout provides useful cargo room behind the rear seats, with up to 70.8 cubic feet of total space.

Winner for passenger and cargo versatility: Dodge Durango

If you need three rows or often carry both people and gear, the Durango offers more flexibility.

Fuel Economy

Dodge Durango

The 2027 Durango GT HEMI V8 AWD used in the comparison gets 14 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. The Durango’s larger V8 is tuned for power and towing, not economy.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2027 Grand Cherokee Laredo with the 3.6-liter V6 gets 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined.

Winner for fuel economy: Jeep Grand Cherokee

If fuel economy is a major concern, the Grand Cherokee’s smaller, more efficient engine is the better pick.

Technology and Interior Features

Both SUVs offer technology to make everyday driving easier.

Dodge Durango

The Durango has a 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with an easy-to-use infotainment system, touchscreen connectivity, and smartphone integration. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Grand Cherokee has a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus navigation. 

Winner for tech: It’s a tie

The tech features are similar between these two SUVs, so the best choice depends on your preferences.

Off-Road Capability

If you like venturing off the beaten path, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a clear advantage.

Dodge Durango

The Durango is a performance-oriented SUV, best suited for daily driving, towing, road trips, and changing weather. While it’s not designed for off-road use, AWD and the available Bilstein Active-Damping High-Performance Suspension make trails easier to tackle.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Three available 4×4 systems and Jeep’s off-road engineering make the Grand Cherokee an off-roading champ. Available 4×4 systems include the Quadra-Trac I® 4×4 System, Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System with five drive modes, and the class-exclusive Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension System.

Winner for off-road capability: Jeep Grand Cherokee

With Jeep’s legendary off-road reputation, it’s no wonder it comes out on top in this comparison.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

Choosing between the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee ultimately comes down to what you want from your SUV.

Choose the Dodge Durango if you want:

• Three-row seating
• Seating for up to seven passengers
• Strong V8 performance
• Higher maximum towing capacity
• More overall cargo versatility
• A performance-focused SUV

Choose the Jeep Grand Cherokee if you want:

• Two-row seating
• Better fuel economy
• Strong everyday performance
• Available four-wheel-drive capability
• More emphasis on off-road driving
• A comfortable midsize SUV for daily use

Dodge Durango vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Dodge Durango vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee comparison comes down to different strengths. The Durango is the better choice if you prioritize power, towing, three-row seating, and cargo versatility. The Grand Cherokee is a strong option for those who want two-row practicality, better fuel economy, and off-road capability.

If you’re still deciding which SUV is right for you, compare available Durango models and trims to see which features best match your lifestyle. Then visit Team Dodge Ram Fiat in Myrtle Beach to explore current Dodge inventory and find the right SUV!