Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs. Chevy Tahoe

1. Introduction

This section will provide a brief introduction of the models, their features, performance, fuel consumption, size, and pricing. Followed by a conclusion on which vehicle will provide customers with the best value. This section is important so the following experiential methodology can further compare and contrast the new Chevy Tahoe and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. Although both models have yet to be released, enough information has been made available to allow for fair judgment of new or enhanced features of the redesigned models. These two models are in the same automobile class and each new design had the intent of taking a fair share of the others market. The Chevy Tahoe and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L design teams both had the intent of taking market share from other brands' vehicles, and rightly so, as they are confident they have produced models that will now be more than capable of outperforming the competition. Both models are full-size SUVs and make for a feasible buy for a family in need of a larger car but work for various airlines, shuttle companies, and hotels will see these models fit for transportation use handing up to 7-8 passengers. Both are capable of light towing and off-road use, with the capabilities exceeding those of unibody construction SUVs or minivans. A body-on-frame design aids in less worry of damage while towing or off-road excursion and the potential costly repairs that can come with it. Now going away from reasons to buy either car in replacement for the other, let's take on a standalone comparison and see what model will best fit the needs and wants of present Chevrolet and Jeep vehicle shoppers. This paper is intending to help consumers make an informed decision before buying a Tahoe or Grand Cherokee and assist in completing a satisfactory purchase.

2. Exterior Features

This is the first generation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee to offer a third row of seating, and this greatly expanded exterior is a strong reflection of that. Despite growing in every external dimension outside of height, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L takes a strong resemblance to its earlier version. Up front, the iconic seven-slot grill remains but is now thinner and wider, giving an even bolder appearance. The rear angle of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is where some changes can be seen from previous models. From the rear, viewers will notice the taillights have a slimmer appearance that stretches towards the center of the tailgate. This new design choice, plus additional lines in the tailgate and lower bumper, give a more horizontal focus to the rear. This is in contrast to a more vertical appearance on previous models. The Overland and Summit trims come with a dual-pane panoramic sunroof that stretches almost the entire length of the roof, and it does well to maintain a look that remains faithful to previous Jeep models. The Laredo and Limited trims come with a standard sunroof and a shark fin antenna. The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L has undergone a complete redesign and looks to be a hybrid of previous Jeep Grand Cherokee generations and features found on the Jeep Wagoneer. Although never a complete remodel, the changes seen throughout the vehicle still leave no mistaking it for a mid-sized or full-sized 3-row SUV. With an immediate focus on luxury, depending on what features are valued, it will not be hard to justify spending extra for a higher-end trim.

2.1. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Although the exact measurements of the new Grand Cherokee L haven't been released, we do know that it's both longer and shorter than its main competitor, the three-row Chevrolet Tahoe. Jeep says the L is also the most aerodynamic Grand Cherokee in history, a statistic often taken for granted among supercar and truck buyers, but certainly important when it comes to saving fuel and minimizing interior noise. Step-in height has also been decreased compared to the previous generation, and the L features short front and rear overhangs to give it that perfectly proportionate and purposeful SUV look. The last characteristic to note is something that might be subtle, but something Jeep wholeheartedly believes in and is prevalent through the design of the L inside and out. It's "authenticity". From engineer Mark Allen, "Our team took every step to create something that didn't look forced or fake, but a design that actually progresses the Jeep Grand Cherokee to a much higher level while also feeling entirely right and authentic for only a Jeep", to the continuation of the seven-slot grill and trapezoidal wheel arches, to various functional cues to the Land Rover-esque round LED headlamps, Jeep wants to make sure that it's not following any trends set by other manufacturers, but simply "doing what a Jeep's supposed to do". A lot of this might be mumbo-jumbo and marketing talk to most, but it will surely differentiate the Grand Cherokee L from much of its competition.

2.2. Chevy Tahoe

Exterior Features The Tahoe’s exterior design helps protect against potential dings from objects such as a shopping cart or another car door with body-color moldings and the availability of heated power outside mirrors. The mirrors can also be folded in as well as turned down when the Tahoe is in reverse. This option is standard on all LT and LTZ models and is found on the Z71 off-road model. Integrated turn signal indicators also help alert passing vehicles when changing directions. A rear tailgate with liftglass is also standard with an available power-operated liftgate that opens to three different programmable heights for shorter consumers and those with low garage ceilings. Another available option is the rearview camera built into the rear latch that allows drivers to see what is immediately behind the vehicle. The Grand Cherokee L and the Tahoe have similar exterior features such as the integrated turn signal mirrors, power liftgate, privacy glass, and the remote trunk release. The exterior options of the Tahoe that are not available on the Grand Cherokee are the optional running boards/side steps and auto-leveling headlights.

3. Interior Features

The 2021 Chevy Tahoe offers an inviting interior with a mix of quality materials and user-friendly technology. The dashboard design is clean and straightforward, making it easy to operate the infotainment controls. A 10.2-inch touchscreen is standard and runs Chevy's latest infotainment software, which is intuitive and easy to use. Navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad are standard across the board. The Chevrolet Infotainment Plus package adds a nine-speaker Bose audio system to LS and LT trim levels while the top-trim High Country features a 10-speaker Bose system. RS and Premier models feature a premium 10-speaker Bose Centerpoint setup. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard and changes to a tri-zone setup for all rows of seating starting at the LT trim level. For the first time, Tahoe offers an optional 15-inch multicolor head-up display that can be adjusted vertically or horizontally to show up to 15 different camera views, off-road inclinometer, and more. Additionally, the 2021 Tahoe features an optional rear-seat media package with a pair of 12.6-inch display screens mounted to the rear of the front seat headrests. This package includes rear-seat audio controls and a pair of wireless headphones to keep the peace and quiet in the cabin.

The interior of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L stands out with premium materials, quality craftsmanship, and attention to detail that will delight drivers and passengers alike. The Summit Reserve package goes further, showcasing the Grand Cherokee L's most luxurious interior ever. The package, available exclusively on Grand Cherokee L, improves upon Summit's premium interior with Palermo leather, ventilated front seats with massage, and a 950-watt McIntosh audio system with 17 speakers. All Grand Cherokee L models feature an attractive and intuitive Uconnect system with a 10.1-inch touch screen. The system supports Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and wireless Apple CarPlay. A 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is standard, and rear-seat entertainment screens are available. The standard climate control system is a three-zone setup that ensures comfortable temperatures across the first two rows of seating. Those wanting to keep the peace in the second row can opt for the available rear-seat monitoring camera that displays a feed of the second-row passengers in the front and sends a reminder to check the back seats upon vehicle exit. High-tech driver assist features include a digital rearview mirror, head-up display, night vision, and active driving assist to give drivers some level of autonomy with hands-on automated driving on prequalified highways. - Zumara Simulation

3.1. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The Jeep Grand Cherokee L has an impressive list of interior features and options. They come standard with bronze, clear tint, and chrome interior accents and adorned in true wood instrument panel insert, premium leather interior door trim, and leather/genuine wood console and dashboard inserts. The white gauges that highlight a black background offer optimal visibility and add a unique touch to the ambiance of the semi-luxury interior, especially at night. Dual-zone climate controls for front and rear passengers, in addition to the standard first-row and rear power windows, are also standard features. The Uconnect 5.0 system is responsible for managing the standard features in the Laredo and Limited. This system consists of a 5-inch touch screen and interface system for a mobile device, including Bluetooth streaming audio. The interior is fleshed with 12 Volt DC power outlets, front and rear, an overhead console with storage, and a universal garage door opener. The Limited model receives an upgrade to heated second-row seats and a power tilt/telescoping steering column combined with a memory system that saves the positions for the radio, driver seat, and exterior mirrors, that belong to the settings for two different drivers. The memory system on this vehicle is capable of recognizing up to two key fobs in regard to the individual settings for the driver seat, radio, and exterior mirrors. Both the Limited and Overland models have available color options for the interior. Light Frost/Brown and Black are options that come with the Indigo Blue/Brown wood grain steering wheel and front door bezels. Light Frost/Black and Black wood grain accents are attached to the Dark Sienna Brown/Black and Morocco Black/Light Frost color choice. These color schemes come with perforated Nappa leather in the first and second row and leather door trim panel/upper IP grab handle, in addition to the leather dashboard found in the Overland.

3.2. Chevy Tahoe

The 2021 Chevy Tahoe has been fully redesigned, getting a complete overhaul. The most significant difference between the new Tahoe and its predecessor is the fact that it's now based on an independent rear suspension, which in turn significantly increases third-row comfort and interior space. The cabin is also more refined with nicer materials, some trims come with leather dash/door panels, and Chevy's top-of-the-line tech features and infotainment options. High Country trims can come with a panoramic sunroof. The third row has more space and versatility due to the fact that it can now be optioned as a 40/20/40 split bench allowing for more passenger or cargo space combinations. Tahoe is still offered in regular or extended length, with the two providing 25" more length which in turn increases cargo space behind the third row. With all of these changes, Tahoe has certainly moved upmarket and its new design and features point towards it being much more family-friendly and road-tripping worthy than the previous generation. Moving to the front of the vehicle, Chevy has redone the center console/dash area. The gear shifter is now an electronic dial and the console is much wider than before. This increases versatility and storage capabilities, and an optional wireless charger is available at the rear of it. All of the new infotainment and tech features are quite easy to use via the touchscreen or controls, and the driver's interface is also much more advanced. Lastly, the new Tahoe is much quieter inside than before due to added sound-deadening materials and an active noise cancellation system.

3.3. Comparison of Interior Space

The Chevy Tahoe features three rows of seats and can accommodate up to nine passengers. Second-row captain's chairs are standard on LT and Z71 models. Second-row bench seats are standard on LS and all others except on the Premier, where second row seats are available to replace the captain's chairs. There is a new split-folding one-piece center seat on the second-row bench that can slide 5.5 inches forward or backward for added passenger comfort and cargo versatility. The Tahoe's third-row seat folds flat into the floor and has a 50/50 split design. The second and third rows can be folded forward to create a completely flat load surface, and Chevy says there is a maximum cargo volume of 108.9 cubic feet.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee L has a very functional and rational seating layout. There is seating for up to seven passengers with the optional third-row seat. For second-row passengers, an optional center console provides convenience and comfort. Both the second- and third-row seats split and fold in a 60/40 configuration. Jeep says there is a total of 84.6 cubic feet of space, 17.8 feet of that amount being when the third-row seats are folded.

4. Performance and Engine Options

The fifth-generation Chevy Tahoe will be offering three engine options on a new T1 truck platform. The standard motor will be a 355-hp 5.3-liter V-8 with Dynamic Fuel Management. An available 277-hp 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel is also a first for the platform. Finally, Tahoe High Country will come equipped with a 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8 Duramax offering. All motors will include a 10-speed automatic transmission and automatic start/stop technology to improve fuel economy. With these options, Chevy is saying this will have the most performance and powertrain options in Tahoe history. This will also be the first time offering a diesel motor.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers three different powertrain options. The standard will be a 293-hp 3.6-liter V-6. This motor sends power through an eight-speed automatic transmission. 4x2 models will have an electronic start/stop to help increase fuel efficiency. 4x4 models will come equipped with the Jeep brand's renowned Quadra-Trac I single-speed transfer case, or the Quadra-Trac II two-speed transfer case for low-range capability. In the spirit of the Grand Cherokee name, the Grand Cherokee L will also offer an available 357-hp 5.7-liter V-8. This Hemi engine boasts a 7,200-pound towing capacity and a 0-60 time in the mid 6-second range. Later in the first quarter of 2021, a 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain will be offered. This PHEV system will offer 25 miles of electric-only range and a total range of over 500 miles thanks to a combined 375-hp.

4.1. Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Although it is Jeep's tradition to be off-road oriented, the Grand Cherokee has always been car-like in comparison. A platform derived from Mercedes was utilized to create the Challenger/Charger and 300 vehicles, and now it is the Grand Cherokee that will use that very same platform. This platform is ideal for the Grand Cherokee since it is renowned for great steering and road handling attributes. Also, its interior is very un-Jeep, with a touch shift gear selection dial, wood inlays, and plenty of optional luxury features. Jeep is offering 3 4x4 systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II. Quadra-Trac I is a full-time system for the V6 with a single-speed transfer case. Quadra-Trac II offers low-range gearing and is available only on the V8. Quadra-Drive II is optional with the V8 and comes with an electronic limited-slip differential. This is all in addition to the available air suspension system. The engine range is considerably simplified with just 2 options. The stalwart 5.7L pushrod V8 makes a return with 357 hp and 390 ft lbs of torque. This engine is also equipped with Chrysler's Multi Displacement System, which can deactivate 4 cylinders when full power is not required. The result is better fuel economy. The new option is a Pentastar 3.6L DOHC V6 with variable valve timing rated at 290 hp and 257 ft lbs. It's about time the new V6 replaced the ancient 3.7L V6. It brings the Grand Cherokee a more modern engine with much better fuel efficiency and will be the standard engine for lower trims. Both engines are now equipped with start/stop technology to save on fuel. Coming behind these engines is a ZF 8-speed 850RE automatic transmission, and three different four-wheel drive systems are available, including a Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, with the latter system adding several useful off-road goodies. An all-wheel-drive system is also optional for V6 models. In terms of towing capacity, the V6 can handle 6200 lbs while the V8 can manage 7200 lbs.

4.2. Chevy Tahoe

Chevy Tahoe does not offer any 4-cylinder motors, so the only motor available is the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8. This is a proven motor, delivering performance and fuel efficiency which previously would require either bigger, more complex DOHC V8s or a riskier turbocharging strategy. It combines the efficiency of a DOHC design and cylinder deactivation with the torque and response of a traditional V8. In addition, Tahoe's performance is improved further. This is due to a recent GM upgrade, a 10-speed automatic transmission which replaces the appointments of the 5.3L engine only option. An additional $1000 option can equip the Tahoe with a 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel, to give the Tahoe a wider range of efficiency and performance. However, the majority of Tahoe buyers will go with the 5.3L V8 which is available at all trim levels. The Tahoe's diesel engine availability is following the trend of Chevrolet recently, making the Equinox and Silverado also available with a diesel engine option. For those wanting even better performance, a 6.2L V8 option is sometimes available in Premium trim Tahoes. However, this is more common with the Cadillac Escalade and is not advisable for towing as it's less torquey than the 5.3L. Overall, the Tahoe's powertrain options are simple and give a well-balanced mix of performance and fuel efficiency for a full-sized SUV.