Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was offered in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and two battery sizes. The larger battery, though more expensive, provided enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior design was improved with body-color trim, and the interior boasted a cleaner dashboard and center console, along with fabric seats that had an upscale pattern. The 14-inch center touchscreen integrated climate control, though the digital driver display was criticized for its placement and readability.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee received subtle exterior updates, maintaining its handsome and bold appearance. The lineup was streamlined to three core trims: Laredo, Limited, and Summit, each with distinct wheel options and styling packages. The interior, while slightly plain due to design elements borrowed by the smaller Jeep Cherokee, still offered premium materials and equipment in higher trims. The Grand Cherokee's seating options varied from cloth to genuine leather, with sunroof availability starting from the Laredo Altitude trim. Despite some interior layout criticisms, the Grand Cherokee maintained its "grand" status with its overall design and features.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of powertrain options. The XLE with FWD came with a single electric motor and a 57.7-kWh battery, delivering 165 horsepower and 198 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles. The optional 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles. Dual-motor AWD models produced 338 hp, with a range of 288 miles for the XLE AWD. The bZ's charging capabilities included compatibility with Tesla Superchargers and a 240-volt Level 2 home charger. Efficiency tests showed the bZ performed better than EPA estimates in certain conditions, though it lacked one-pedal driving capability. The bZ was noted for its agreeable city driving but had limitations on winding roads due to its tires and steering.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee introduced the Hurricane 4 Turbo engine, offering 324 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the Wrangler's turbo-four. This engine was standard in all trims except the base Laredo and Laredo X, which retained the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 with 293 hp. Both engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions and offered RWD or 4WD. The Hurricane engine provided impressive power delivery and maintained a 6,200-pound towing capacity. The Grand Cherokee's driving experience remained truck-like, with a comfortable suspension setup. Off-road capabilities varied by trim, with the Summit offering advanced 4WD systems but lacking some features of the discontinued Trailhawk model.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a skateboard-style EV platform with 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making entry and exit easy. The front seats offered eight-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated options in the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage solutions. Rear passengers enjoyed good legroom, though foot space was limited. Cargo space was 27.7 cubic feet, expandable to 56.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered two-row and three-row configurations. The two-row model provided 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet. The three-row Grand Cherokee L had less cargo space compared to competitors. Interior space was competitive in headroom but lagged in legroom. Storage solutions included a deep center console bin, though the layout was criticized for practicality.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The Intelligent Assistant voice command system worked well, with a few exceptions. Various connected service plans were complimentary for different durations.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen on higher trims, with a 10.2-inch screen on lower trims. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Off-Road Pages display was a notable feature, though the main touchscreen and digital instrument cluster were criticized for clutter. Advanced camera systems and a digital rearview mirror were available on higher trims.

The 2026 Toyota bZ included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Limited trim added Traffic Jam Assist and other advanced features. The bZ's safety ratings from the IIHS were mixed, with high marks for front-crash avoidance but poor ratings for headlights.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered standard driver-assistance features, with Active Drive Assist available on higher trims. The 2025 model received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though updated ratings for 2026 were pending. The Grand Cherokee's safety features were comprehensive, with enhancements to the hands-free driving system.