2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 showcased BMW's ambition to mimic a sedan driving experience despite its 5,000-pound crossover weight. Known for prioritizing on-road performance, it deliberately played down off-road prowess, a gamble proving prescient as more buyers preferred pavement performance over rock-crawling capabilities. The initial five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, offered limited third-row space, making it less ideal for those needing ample seating.

Two turbocharged engines powered the X5: the xDrive40i's 3.0-liter inline-6 and the xDrive50i's 4.4-liter V8, paired with the refined ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. Standard features included AWD, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a robust suite of safety technologies. The entry-level xLine and premium M Sport packages added unique wheels, adaptive suspension, and luxurious interiors.

In contrast, the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, although a decade into its design, remained visually appealing with its traditional Jeep styling cues, including a 7-slot grille and trapezoidal fenders. It managed to balance a rugged off-road presence with an upscale appearance suitable for urban environments. Prices for the Grand Cherokee ranged from $32,150 for the base Laredo to $52,495 for the Summit, with various models in between, including high-performance SRT and Trackhawk variants.

The tested Limited X model, priced at $53,275, featured a Slate Blue Pearl exterior with sport-themed enhancements and 20-inch wheels. However, its interior materials, despite premium touches, felt less substantial and too reliant on hard plastic for the price bracket.

The 2019 BMW X5 excelled in the performance department, making it a compelling choice. The xDrive40i's turbocharged inline-6 engine produced 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, delivering power effortlessly, especially in Sport mode. The ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission, upgraded for 2019, was smooth and efficient, contributing to the X5's impressive 20 mpg city and 26 highway fuel economy. Acceleration to 60 mph in around 5 seconds highlighted its capability, while the xDrive50i's V8 engine pushed those numbers even further with 456 hp and 479 lb-ft, propelling it to 60 mph in about 4 seconds.

The X5 rode on BMW’s Cluster Architecture platform, integrating steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber for superior performance and reduced weight. Adjustable air suspension offered versatility, providing a smooth ride or sportier handling as needed. The vehicle's adept bump absorption was noteworthy, even on 20-inch run-flat tires, with available upgrades for enhanced off-road or sporty driving.

In comparison, the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited X came with a standard 295-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 engine coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring solid acceleration and a combined 21 mpg according to EPA ratings. Those seeking more power could opt for three available V8 engines, culminating in the Trackhawk's supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that delivered a staggering 707 hp and 645 lb-ft, hitting 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.

Not all Grand Cherokees featured 4WD, but the test model included the capable Quadra-Trac II system, supporting 4-Lo mode for off-road adventures. While driving dynamics on pavement were less refined, off-road performance shone with the Selec-Terrain traction control and hill descent systems enhancing capability.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, changes were evident with aggressive design elements and dual 12.3-inch screens for the iDrive infotainment system. Despite these upgrades, unless opting for expensive trim options, some materials felt less premium, drawing comparisons to even entry-level competitors like the Mercedes A-Class. Comfort in front seats was a mixed bag, with insufficient thigh support and poor lumbar adjustments despite plenty of space. Cargo capacity stood at 33.9 cubic feet, expandable to 72.3 cubic feet with seats down, and the air suspension assisted in easy loading. Towing capacity reached 7,200 pounds when well-equipped.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a seating capacity of five with 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 68.3 cubic feet when the back seats were folded. Heated and 8-way power-adjustable front seats contributed to overall comfort but lacked ventilation. Rear passengers enjoyed adequate legroom and additional amenities like air vents and USB ports. Interior storage was practical, though perhaps not best in class.

In technology, the 2019 BMW X5's advanced features were a mixed bag. Gesture control was unreliable, screen customization limited, and voice controls inconsistent. The updated iDrive system was functional but not superior to rivals. Particularly disappointing was the Driving Assistance Plus package, with its flawed high-speed autonomy, making manual driving preferable. Several noteworthy add-ons included a $700 Parking Assistant Plus and options for premium sound and night vision.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, in contrast, housed its Uconnect infotainment system, known for speed and user-friendliness. However, recent competitor advancements made it less standout. In the Limited X trim, the system included an 8.4-inch touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more, plus an option for a premium Alpine sound system. Unique to Jeep were the Off-Road Pages app for adventure data, and Performance Pages for SRT and Trackhawk models.

The 2019 BMW X5 incorporated a new brake-by-wire setup, aiding semi-autonomous driving functions, though braking could occasionally feel abrupt. The government’s NHTSA awarded it a 4-star overall rating, with IIHS granting a Top Safety Pick+ and top scores in all tests.

Jeep's 2020 Grand Cherokee featured three ADAS collections: ProTech I, II, and Advanced ProTech II, each increasing in complexity from basic reversing cameras and blind-spot monitoring to adaptive cruise control and autonomous parking. However, its crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall NHTSA rating and subpar IIHS scores.