When shopping for a three-row SUV, many families look at two popular choices: the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and the Hyundai Palisade. Both deliver space for up to seven or eight people, modern tech, and strong safety scores. But which one fits your needs best? This comparison breaks down the key differences, strengths, and weak spots, so you can make a confident decision.
Exterior And Interior Design
Both SUVs have their own style. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L looks rugged and upscale, with a bold seven-slot grille and tough lines. The Hyundai Palisade has a more elegant, rounded appearance, with cascading grille and LED lights.
Inside, the Palisade feels almost like a luxury vehicle. You’ll find premium materials even in lower trims, with quilted leather and soft surfaces in higher versions. The Grand Cherokee L offers a classic Jeep cabin—solid and comfortable, with a focus on durability, but recent upgrades have made it more refined.
Interior Space
Space is important for families. Here’s a side-by-side look at the seating and cargo room:
| Model | Seating Capacity | Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row) | Max Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 6-7 | 17.2 cu ft | 84.6 cu ft |
| Hyundai Palisade | 7-8 | 18.0 cu ft | 86.4 cu ft |
The Palisade offers a bit more room, but the Grand Cherokee L’s third row is easier for adults to use, thanks to smart seat design.
Performance And Driving Experience
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L stands out for its off-road ability. With optional four-wheel drive, multiple engine choices, and advanced terrain systems, it handles rough conditions better than most rivals. The base engine is a 3.6L V6 (293 hp), while a 5.7L V8 (357 hp) is available for more power.
The Hyundai Palisade uses a 3.8L V6 (291 hp). It’s smooth, quiet, and handles well on highways and city streets, but it’s not meant for serious off-roading. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive as an option.
Here’s a quick look at power and towing:
| Model | Base Engine | Max Horsepower | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 3.6L V6 | 357 hp | 7,200 lbs |
| Hyundai Palisade | 3.8L V6 | 291 hp | 5,000 lbs |
If you need to tow a boat or trailer, the Grand Cherokee L is clearly ahead.
Technology And Features
Both SUVs deliver a long list of tech features. The Palisade comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen (or 12.3-inch on higher trims), Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. The Grand Cherokee L matches with a similar touchscreen, plus a digital gauge cluster and optional rear-seat entertainment.
Where the Palisade shines is value. Even base models offer heated seats, advanced driver aids, and three-zone climate control. Jeep’s entry-level trims feel more basic, and some desirable features only come on higher models.
Safety And Reliability
Safety is a top concern for families. Both vehicles score well in crash tests. The Palisade is a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Grand Cherokee L offers a similar safety suite but is not rated quite as high due to its size and weight.
When it comes to reliability, Hyundai has a strong reputation. The Palisade comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which is one of the best in the industry. Jeep’s warranty is 5 years/60,000 miles, and its long-term reliability is average.
Pricing And Ownership Costs
Price is a deciding factor for many buyers. The Palisade starts at a lower price, making it appealing for families on a budget. Even higher trims cost less than a fully loaded Grand Cherokee L. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Model | Base Price (2024) | Top Trim Price (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | $42,130 | $66,655 |
| Hyundai Palisade | $37,735 | $54,085 |
Also consider fuel economy. The Palisade averages 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway. The Grand Cherokee L gets 18/25 mpg with the V6, but less with the V8. Insurance and maintenance costs are typically lower for the Hyundai.
Which Suv Is Right For You?
Choosing between the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Hyundai Palisade depends on your needs.
- Pick the Grand Cherokee L if you want real off-road ability, higher towing, or a Jeep badge. It’s also a better fit if you plan to drive on rough roads or need a V8.
- Choose the Palisade if you value comfort, interior quality, reliability, and getting the most features for your money. It’s a smooth family SUV with a luxury feel.
One detail many buyers miss: the Palisade’s third-row access is easier for kids, thanks to a one-touch sliding second row. Also, Grand Cherokee L’s air suspension is great for ride comfort, but can be costly to repair over time—a fact often missed by first-time Jeep owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Jeep Grand Cherokee L Bigger Than The Hyundai Palisade?
The Grand Cherokee L is slightly longer, but the Palisade offers more cargo space and similar passenger room. Both are large three-row SUVs.
Which Suv Has Better Warranty Coverage?
The Hyundai Palisade has a much better warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles on the powertrain, compared to Jeep’s 5 years/60,000 miles.
Can Both Suvs Handle Off-road Driving?
The Grand Cherokee L is made for off-road with its four-wheel-drive systems and advanced suspension. The Palisade is best for paved roads and mild dirt paths.
Which One Is Safer For Families?
Both are safe, but the Palisade has a higher IIHS safety rating and more driver aids on lower trims.
Where Can I Find More Details About These Suvs?
You can get full specs and reviews at the Edmunds website.
In the end, both the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Hyundai Palisade are excellent choices. Think about your priorities—off-road vs. value, towing vs. warranty—and you’ll find the right fit for your family’s next adventure.
