2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2019 Jeep Cherokee

When analyzing the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, it was clear that Jeep had taken strides to overhaul its previously polarizing design. The earlier model's Fiat-inspired aesthetics—which were not necessarily fitting for the Jeep brand—were streamlined into a more universally appealing design. The 2019 Cherokee dispensed with the isolated daytime running lights and repositioned the headlight arrangement to a more conventional setup. This design shift made the Cherokee's front end look less alien and more in line with modern compact SUVs.

Even the rear received a makeover, moving away from the previous “slab” look. The restructured rear hatch saw the license-plate holder moved to a central position, transforming the back view into something far more agreeable. Inside, the dash and cabin retained the sensible and logical layout that Jeep enthusiasts appreciated. The Cherokee’s interior mirrored the Grand Cherokee's, albeit on a slightly smaller scale, focusing on practical storage solutions and a user-friendly control layout.

The 2019 Grand Cherokee, despite its age, maintained a timeless appeal. Signature elements such as the classic 7-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and numerous aluminum wheel options emphasized its well-balanced and meticulous design. Each Grand Cherokee trim offered unique attributes, from the base Laredo to the high-performance Trackhawk, making it versatile for different buyer needs. My tested Limited X version showcased performance aesthetics and a posh interior but fell short on build quality in some areas exposed to wear and tear.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee featured a new engine option alongside the existing lineup. The base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine generated 180 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque, standard on base trims. The more robust 3.2-liter V6 engine churned out 271 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque, coming standard on higher trims like the Limited, Overland, and Trailhawk, while also available for lower trims. However, the highlight was the new turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, delivering 270 horsepower and a robust 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine was optional across most trims except the base.

The Cherokee's performance was supplemented by various 4WD systems, such as Active Drive I and II, and the off-road-centric Active Drive Lock exclusive to the Trailhawk. The drive experience on regular roads was generally satisfying, with the Trailhawk standing out for its ability to handle rough terrains effortlessly. Despite the noisy turbo engine, it offered respectable towing capabilities—up to 4,500 pounds with the V6 and 4,000 pounds with the turbo 4-cylinder.

The 2019 Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, started strong with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower. For those seeking more power, options included a 360-hp 5.7-liter V8, a 425-hp 6.4-liter V8 in the SRT model, and an astonishing 707-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the Trackhawk. The 8-speed automatic transmission provided smooth and reliable shifts, whether powering the rear wheels or an advanced 4WD system, like the Quadra-Drive II on the Limited X, ready for off-road adventures.

While the Grand Cherokee's heavy weight and considerable power sometimes compromised fuel efficiency—despite EPA estimates of 21 mpg combined, real-world testing showed closer to around 17 to 18 mpg—the driving experience remained robust. On pavement, it handled impressively, and the brakes, though sometimes prone to fading under heavy use, could be upgraded in the performance models for enhanced stopping power. The Trackhawk, while an exhilarating performer, came at the expense of fuel efficiency, managing just 13.1 mpg.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee featured a thoughtfully designed interior with useful storage solutions such as deep front door pockets, a handy tray by the shifter, and a roomy center console. However, its cargo capacity lagged behind competitors. Jeep claimed improved storage, but it only offered 25 cubic feet with seats up and 54 cubic feet with seats down, significantly less than rivals like the Honda CR-V, which provided up to 75 cubic feet.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered ample space for families and comfort in the front seats, though the hard plastic backseat panels hindered comfort for rear passengers with longer legs. Storage space was comparatively limited, despite its adventuring ethos, but included practical touches like shopping-bag hooks. Cargo space measured 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seat and expanded to 68.3 cubic feet with the seats down, surpassing the Cherokee but still not as capacious as some competitors in the midsize segment.

Jeep equipped the 2019 Cherokee with comprehensive infotainment options. The base trims got a standard 7-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims featured an 8.3-inch Uconnect system. The fourth-generation Uconnect delivered improved graphics, responsiveness, and customizable menus, maintaining Jeep’s reputation for intuitive user interfaces.

The 2019 Grand Cherokee started with a similar 7-inch system for the base Laredo trim but offered the more sophisticated Uconnect on the higher trims. This newer system came with faster response times, better graphics, and features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and navigation. Paired with optional premium audio systems, including an impressive 19-speaker Harman Kardon system available in higher trims, the Grand Cherokee ensured a superior auditory experience.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee came well-equipped with standard safety features such as front and side-impact airbags, a reversing camera, and electronic stability control. Enhanced safety options were available through the SafetyTec and Technology Group packages, which included advanced systems like blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2019 Grand Cherokee also offered a comprehensive safety suite. Standard options included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Advanced Active Safety Group package added features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. However, the Grand Cherokee’s crash-test ratings were concerning, with the IIHS giving it low scores for frontal-impact protection and rollover resistance, making it one of the less safe choices in its segment.