Dodge Durango vs Jeep Grand Cherokee L | Ames, IA

The Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee L are both three-row SUVs that have plenty of room for the entire family. These large vehicles also have the powerful engines required to bring the family boat or camper along for a trip out of Ames, IA.

Despite some of their similarities and the fact that Jeep and Dodge are corporate relatives, these two vehicles occupy distinct niches in the three-row SUV category. And while the Dodge Durango has been a staple of the lineup, the Grand Cherokee L is a totally new model.

This post is going to compare and contrast the two vehicles to help local drivers figure out which one best matches their needs.

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Engines and Towing

Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and the Dodge Durango have a pair of engine options. The Jeep comes standard with a V6 engine that outputs 290 horsepower; this can be upgraded to a V8 that gets 357 ponies!

The Dodge, for its part, enjoys a V6 and a V8 as well. The former makes 295 horsepower while the latter puts out 360! This last engine, the Durango’s V8, is the strongest of the four – but it only edges out the Grand Cherokee L’s by 3 horsepower. This engine family is shared between Jeep & Dodge, so the main differences will be found in the rest of the vehicles’ construction.

The close gap in engine power is reflected in the vehicles’ towing capacities. The Dodge Durango, when properly outfitted, can tow up to 8,700 pounds. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L tops out at 7,200 pounds. That said, the base models of both vehicles have the same towing capacity: 6,200 pounds.

Since some Ames, IA area drivers won’t need the V8 engine upgrade, it’s good to know that both base vehicles still have impressive towing capacities. Those Iowa residents who do require lots of towing strength, however, may want to consider the V8.

Interiors and Driving Style

Both of these vehicles, being 3-row SUVs, are quite spacious inside. Each vehicle also comes equipped with an impressive suite of features, on base models and certainly on higher trims. The Durango enjoys nice trim and high-quality internal parts, in addition to an easy-to-read dashboard. Meanwhile, the all-new Grand Cherokee L brings a new level of refinement to Jeep’s lineup

If you’ve seen the Grand Cherokee L in person, it is a truly handsome vehicle. This is reflected in its driving dynamics, which are refined and comfortable. However, it still has Jeep’s advanced 4×4 systems available, and is ready to head to camp or tackle Iowa’s winter.

The Durango has several trims focused on performance driving dynamics, so for our customers shopping for pure American Muscle, it’s hard to argue with the SRT or R/T Durango models. Dodge’s three-row family SUV occupies a unique space.

Conclusion: Different SUVs for Different Folks

Both the Dodge Durango and the Jeep Grand Cherokee are great choices in the three-row SUV category. They each have powerful engine options, high towing capacities, and upscale interiors. The three-row Jeep is a more direct competitor to other family SUVs, both in looks and refinement.

The Grand Cherokee L has a much more recent design, but the Durango retains its unique combination of power and family practicality. There are rumors of an updated Durango based on the Wagoneer, but the existing model still has a lot to offer.

Here at Deery of Ames we are proud of our long tradition of service to our community. When you work with us, you can trust we’re working for you. And with every new vehicle, you get Warranty Forever, covering your powertrain for as long as you own the vehicle.

We look forward to seeing you at our Ames, IA dealership soon, and highly recommend test driving the Grand Cherokee L if you haven’t. It’s an excellent new release from Jeep.

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