The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and 2024 Dodge Durango have a few things in common like 3-row seating, the same base engine, and a shared V8 option. However, there’s enough setting these two midsize SUVs apart to show they’re suited to different buyers. The Jeep is the more rugged, outdoorsy type that gets fancier than you might expect, while the Dodge rightfully has a reputation as a muscle car with seven seats.
Let’s take a closer look at the highlights of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Dodge Durango.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L takes what everyone loves about the Grand Cherokee, stretches it out, and adds a third row of seats. When it debuted in 2021, it was Jeep’s first 3-row model since the Commander was discontinued in 2010. We’re happy to report that Jeep got the 3-row SUV right this time. Pricing starts at $41,830, including destination charges.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L Highlights
Rugged capabilities: This Jeep lives up to its storied brand’s reputation. With multiple AWD systems available, a properly equipped Grand Cherokee L is a family-friendly SUV that can cross rugged terrain and conquer just about any road condition you’ll encounter.
Luxurious options: Upgrade to the Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve trims of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and you’re looking at a serious luxury SUV. These trims aren’t cheap, but amenities like rich leather seating, an available McIntosh audio system, and capable AWD systems make them worth every penny.
More screens: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is available with a 10.25-inch front passenger display, plus a pair of 10.1-inch screens mounted behind the front seats with Amazon FireTV. The Durango doesn’t offer nearly as much entertainment for the passengers.
See this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Grand Cherokee L models near you.
2024 Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango has long served as one of the more macho options in family-friendly midsize SUVs. It has the in-your-face styling of a muscle car with the performance to back it up, but it also has a practical 3-row interior that makes it easy to live with. Pricing starts at $41,265.
Dodge Durango Highlights
Stunning SRT models: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Dodge Durango both have V8 options, which is rare in this class. However, the Durango has multiple different V8 options, and the Jeep only has one. The Durango SRT pumps out 475 horsepower, and the stunning supercharged SRT Hellcat model produces a whopping 710 hp.
8,700-pound towing capacity: Those muscular V8 engines aren’t just for entertaining the driver. The Durango also has an excellent maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. That’s in the same territory as a bigger and likely more expensive full-size SUV.
Bigger third row: If you’ll be using the third row regularly, your passengers will appreciate the slightly roomier Dodge. The Durango has an extra 3.2 inches of third-row legroom over the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and equal cargo space behind the third row.
See this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Durango models near you.
Similarities
The main similarities between the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Dodge Durango are standard 3-row seating, the same standard V6 engine (with the same EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating), and a shared Hemi V8 option. Also, their starting prices are almost identical.
Conclusion
For most families looking for a modern 3-row SUV, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the better choice. It rides on a newer platform, has a much nicer interior, and gets downright luxurious in the upper trims. The Dodge Durango feels a little dated, but it has its virtues, like a roomier third row, more towing muscle, and thrilling performance models that the Jeep can’t match.
| 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 2024 Dodge Durango | |
| Starting Price | $41,830 | $41,265 |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.6-liter V6 | 3.6-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 293 hp @ 6,400 rpm | 293 hp @ 6,400 rpm |
| Torque | 260 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 | 5.7-liter V8, AWD | 5.7-liter V8, 6.4-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 stars | 4 stars |
| 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 |
