SUV Comparison: Dodge v. Jeep

Blending sleek highway handling with solid utility capability, the 2015 Dodge Durango SXT and Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo are solid choices in the SUV class.

Both vehicles are manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and have many similarities such as engine specs and almost identical standard features in exterior and interior. However, the Durango’s extra interior space for cargo and passengers give the Durango a slight edge over the Grand Cherokee.

Engine

Both the 2015 Durango SXT and 2015 Grand Cherokee Laredo have a 290-horsepower, 3.6-liter, V6 engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Both SUV’s offer drivers steady power and have a towing capacity of 6,200 lbs.The Durango SXT’s estimated fuel efficiency is 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, and the Laredo’s estimated fuel efficiency of 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway.

Seating

While the engine capabilities, fuel efficiency and towing capacities are generally the same for both cars, the  Durango is a larger car and may be a better buy for a family or someone who needs extra cargo space. The Durango is a 7-passenger vehicle and the Grand Cherokee only has seating for five passengers.

Additionally, the Durango SXT offers driver’s up to 84.5 cubic feet of versatile cargo space. The vehicle has a 60/40 fold-flat front passenger seat and 50/50 third-row seats which allow for easy transitioning from seating to extra space. The Grand Cherokee’s rear seats fold down and while down there is up to 68.3 cubic feet of storage.

Safety

Each car received the same safety scores when ranked by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had slightly different ratings between Grand Cherokee and the Durango. While the Grand Cherokee received five stars and the Durango earned four stars for frontal crash,  the Grand Cherokee only earned three stars in the rollover test and the Durango received four- stars.

Price and Warranty

The 2015 Dodge Durango SXT has an MSRP of $30,495 and the MSRP of the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo comes in at $29,995. Each model includes a 5-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, 3-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty, and come with five years or 100,000 miles of roadside assistance.

Looking for a Dodge Durango?

We have a great selection of Durango trims, colors and the most current models on our lot at Rob Lambdin’s University Dodge. Nestled between the Ft. Lauderdale and Miami metro, we have excellent staff that will make sure you get the car you want and at a great deal. Visit us today!