The 2020 Dodge Durango and 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee are two popular midsize SUVs from the same parent company, FCA (now Stellantis). Both vehicles offer strong performance, comfortable interiors, and a reputation for reliability.
Yet, they have different personalities and features that make them appealing to different drivers.
If you are deciding between these two, it’s important to understand their strengths, differences, and what they offer for your needs.
Performance And Engine Choices
Both the Durango and Grand Cherokee have impressive engine options. The Durango comes with three choices: a 3.6L V6 (293 hp), a 5.7L V8 (360 hp), and the top SRT trim’s 6.4L V8 (475 hp). The Grand Cherokee starts with a 3.6L V6 (295 hp), then offers a 5.7L V8 (360 hp), a 6.4L V8 (475 hp) in the SRT, and even a supercharged 6.2L V8 (707 hp) in the Trackhawk.
Durango’s base V6 is strong enough for daily driving, but its V8s shine for towing. Grand Cherokee’s extra Trackhawk trim is unique, making it one of the most powerful SUVs in its class.
| Model | Base Engine | Top Engine | Horsepower Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durango | 3.6L V6 | 6.4L V8 | 293–475 hp |
| Grand Cherokee | 3.6L V6 | 6.2L supercharged V8 | 295–707 hp |
Interior Comfort And Space
The Dodge Durango offers seating for up to seven, making it a strong family SUV. Its cabin is practical, with plenty of storage and third-row access. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is more focused on five-passenger comfort, with upscale materials and a quieter ride.
Durango’s cargo space is larger, especially with the third row folded. Grand Cherokee’s interior is more premium, especially in higher trims.
Both have touchscreen infotainment systems, but Grand Cherokee’s Uconnect interface is slightly faster and smoother.
Key Features
- Durango: Available third row, 84.5 cubic feet max cargo space, heated seats, rear seat entertainment.
- Grand Cherokee: Premium leather, 68.3 cubic feet max cargo space, advanced driver aids, upscale trims.
Safety And Technology
Safety is a priority in both models. The Grand Cherokee comes with more standard driver aids, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection. The Durango offers these features but usually as options or on higher trims.
Each vehicle includes a touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation options. Grand Cherokee’s tech suite is broader, with adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning available on more trims. Durango’s tech is simpler but reliable.
| Feature | Durango | Grand Cherokee |
|---|---|---|
| Blind-spot Monitoring | Optional | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Optional | Optional |
| Lane Departure Warning | Optional | Optional |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
Towing And Utility
One area where the Durango stands out is towing. With the available V8, it can pull up to 8,700 pounds, which is top in its class. The Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,200 pounds with its V8, which is still strong but less than Durango.
Durango’s extra capacity comes from its body-on-frame design and available towing package. Grand Cherokee’s off-road ability is legendary, with trims like the Trailhawk offering advanced 4×4 systems, skid plates, and hill descent control.
Real-world Example
If you need to tow a boat or camper, the Durango’s higher rating is helpful. But if you want to go off-road, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is a better choice, thanks to its rugged features.
Ride Quality And Driving Experience
The Durango is known for its sporty handling and comfortable ride, especially with the V8 engines. It feels stable at high speeds and is easy to maneuver for its size. The Grand Cherokee is quieter, with a more refined suspension. It absorbs bumps well and is great for long trips.
Both SUVs have all-wheel-drive options. Durango’s AWD system is good for slippery roads, while Grand Cherokee’s Quadra-Trac and Quadra-Drive systems are built for tough terrain.
| Aspect | Durango | Grand Cherokee |
|---|---|---|
| Handling | Sporty | Refined |
| Noise Level | Moderate | Quiet |
| Suspension | Firm | Smooth |
| Off-road Ability | Average | Excellent |
Pricing And Value
The Durango starts at around $30,000, with higher trims reaching $62,000. The Grand Cherokee starts at about $32,000, but the top Trackhawk trim goes up to $87,000. Durango offers more value for families needing space and towing. Grand Cherokee offers a more luxurious experience and wider range of trims.
Non-obvious Insights
- Many buyers overlook the Durango’s ability to seat seven, which is rare in this segment.
- The Grand Cherokee’s resale value tends to be stronger, especially on the limited and performance trims.
Which Should You Choose?
If you need family space, strong towing, and don’t mind a sportier look, the Durango is a smart pick. For premium comfort, advanced tech, and true off-road capability, the Grand Cherokee stands out. Both are reliable, but your daily needs will determine which is better.
For more detailed specs and comparisons, visit the official Jeep Grand Cherokee website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Dodge Durango Or Jeep Grand Cherokee Better For Families?
The Durango is better for larger families due to its available third-row seating and higher cargo space. The Grand Cherokee is ideal for smaller families who want luxury and comfort.
Which Suv Has Better Towing Capacity?
The Dodge Durango leads with a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds, compared to the Grand Cherokee’s 7,200 pounds.
Are Both Vehicles Good For Off-road Driving?
The Grand Cherokee is superior off-road, especially with the Trailhawk and Trackhawk trims, offering advanced 4×4 systems and rugged features. Durango is best for on-road performance.
What Are The Main Differences In Technology Features?
The Grand Cherokee has more standard safety and driver aids, while Durango’s tech is reliable but more basic. Both have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Which One Offers Better Resale Value?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee usually has stronger resale value, especially on higher trims, thanks to its reputation for reliability and luxury.
Choosing between the 2020 Dodge Durango and 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee depends on your needs. Both are excellent SUVs, but their differences in space, capability, and luxury make one more suitable for you than the other.
