Midsize 3-row SUVs have taken over as America’s favorite family vehicle. Combining the appearance of an SUV with the practicality of 3-row seating makes them a compelling choice for families that need the extra seats. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Dodge Durango both bring unique personalities to this segment, one rugged, one muscular.
Let’s take a closer look at these family haulers and see which is right for you.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L takes everything America loves about the Grand Cherokee and adds a third row of seats. This midsize SUV is a longtime favorite for its ability to blend on-road comfort with off-road capability without compromise, and it continues that legacy in 2025. Pricing starts at $41,030.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L Highlights
More modern: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L first debuted in 2021 and still feels pretty fresh. Meanwhile, the current generation of the Dodge Durango came out way back in 2011 and is showing its age. The Jeep looks and feels like a more modern SUV because it is.
Off-road talent: The Jeep is predictably the more competent off-roader in this comparison. Three different all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems are available, including Quadra-Drive II with electronic limited-slip differentials capable of sending 100% of torque to a single wheel. If you’re looking for a practical SUV that can go the distance off-road, this is it.
Luxurious upper trims: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L’s Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve trims are legitimately as nice as expensive SUVs from luxury brands. Just a few premium options include a panoramic sunroof, quad-zone climate control, massaging front seats, and a sublime McIntosh 19-speaker audio system.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Grand Cherokee L models for sale near you.
2025 Dodge Durango
Dodge calls the Durango a muscle car with seven seats, and we can’t argue with that claim. This midsize 3-row SUV has the aesthetics, performance, and attitude of an all-American muscle car, and it’s still available with the stunning supercharged Hellcat V8. Pricing starts at $40,090.
Dodge Durango Highlights
V8 options: Dodge said that 2025 will be the final model year for Durango versions with a V8 engine. Currently, two V8s are available: The Hemi V8 in the R/T models pumps out 360 horsepower while making a satisfying growl, and the supercharged SRT Hellcat models produce a whopping 710 horsepower. Moreover, the V8s also give the Dodge more towing muscle than the Jeep.
Bigger third row: The third row is a little cramped in both of these SUVs, but the way-back of the Dodge Durango has an extra 3.2 inches of legroom compared to the Jeep. Your passengers will appreciate the extra space.
Better resale value: The Dodge Durango has slightly better resale value than the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Durango models for sale near you.
Similarities
These two midsize 3-row SUVs are from the same parent company, Stellantis. Because of that familial bond, they share the same standard V6 engine and similar infotainment systems. However, these cousins have quite different personalities.
Pricing
New 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Prices
Retail Price
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Fair Purchase Price (30528)
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---|---|---|---|---|
$41,030 |
TBD |
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$41,530 |
TBD |
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$45,635 |
TBD |
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$46,135 |
TBD |
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$46,900 |
TBD |
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$60,990 |
TBD |
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$62,555 |
TBD |
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$67,035 |
TBD |
New 2025 Dodge Durango Prices
Retail Price
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Fair Purchase Price (30528)
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---|---|---|---|---|
$40,090 |
TBD |
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$46,090 |
TBD |
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$51,590 |
TBD |
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$54,590 |
TBD |
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$58,090 |
TBD |
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$64,065 |
TBD |
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$67,565 |
TBD |
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$86,590 |
TBD |
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$102,490 |
TBD |
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$102,490 |
TBD |
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$114,920 |
TBD |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles and New 2025 Dodge Durango vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 2025 Dodge Durango | |
Popular Powertrains | ||
Engine | 3.6-liter V6 | 3.6-liter V6 |
Horsepower | 293 hp @ 6,400 rpm | 293 hp @ 6,400 rpm |
Torque | 257 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 260 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
Fuel Economy MPG | 19 city/26 highway/21 combined | 19 city/26 highway/21 combined |
Also Available | AWD | 5.7-liter V8, 6.2-liter supercharged V8, AWD |
Specs | ||
Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
NHTSA Overall Safety | 5-Star | 4-Star |
Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
Wheelbase | 121.7 inches | 119.8 inches |
Overall Length | 204.9 inches | 200.8 inches |
Width | 77.5 inches | 75.8 inches |
Height | 71.5 inches | 72.1 inches |
Turning Diameter | 39.6 feet | 41.0 inches |
Headroom, 1st Row | 39.8 inches | 39.9 inches |
Headroom, 2nd Row | 39.9 inches | 39.8 inches |
Headroom, 3rd Row | 37.3 inches | 37.8 inches |
Legroom, 1st Row | 41.3 inches | 40.3 inches |
Legroom, 2nd Row | 39.4 inches | 38.6 inches |
Legroom, 3rd Row | 30.3 inches | 33.5 inches |
Shoulder Room, 1st Row | 59.2 inches | 58.5 inches |
Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 58.0 inches | 57.7 inches |
Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 51.9 inches | 50.4 inches |
Cargo Volume | 17.2/46.9/84.6 cubic feet | 17.2/43.3/85.1 cubic feet |
Conclusion
Because the pricing is close and the base engine is the same, which of these SUVs is right for you depends largely on personal taste. Do you prefer the off-road aesthetics and capabilities of the Jeep or the more muscle car-inspired Durango with V8 engines to back up its aggressive looks? If you need more third-row space, go with the Durango, and if you prefer a more modern SUV with nicer luxury options, the Jeep is for you. Other than those details, you can go with whichever speaks to you.