What To Know
- Both SUVs offer ample space for families, but the Grand Cherokee L edges out the Pilot in terms of third-row comfort and overall interior luxury.
- The Grand Cherokee L boasts a larger touchscreen infotainment system with a sleek design and a responsive interface.
- The Honda Pilot wins in fuel efficiency, especially when considering the V6 engine option in the Grand Cherokee L.
Choosing the perfect family SUV can feel like navigating a jungle of options. Two titans often rise to the top: the Honda Pilot and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. Both offer spacious cabins, capable performance, and a reputation for reliability. But which one truly reigns supreme for your family’s adventures? Let’s dive into a head-to-head comparison to help you make the right decision.
Space and Comfort: A Family-First Focus
When it comes to family adventures, space and comfort are paramount. Both the Honda Pilot and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L excel in this department.
Honda Pilot: The Pilot boasts three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers. While the third row might feel a bit cramped for adults, it’s perfect for kids. The Pilot’s cabin is known for its spaciousness, with generous legroom and headroom throughout. The interior is thoughtfully designed, with plenty of storage compartments and cupholders.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L also offers three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. While the third row is slightly more spacious than the Pilot’s, it’s still best suited for children. The Grand Cherokee L’s cabin is luxurious and refined, with high-quality materials and a premium feel.
Verdict: Both SUVs offer ample space for families, but the Grand Cherokee L edges out the Pilot in terms of third-row comfort and overall interior luxury.
Performance and Handling: Power and Precision
Family adventures often involve navigating winding roads and challenging terrain. Here’s how the Pilot and Grand Cherokee L stack up in terms of performance and handling:
Honda Pilot: The Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While it’s not the most powerful engine in its class, it provides adequate acceleration and smooth power delivery. The Pilot’s handling is predictable and comfortable, making it a joy to drive on both highways and city streets.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L offers a choice of two engines: a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that produces 290 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that generates 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The V8 engine provides a thrilling driving experience, while the V6 offers a balance of power and fuel efficiency. The Grand Cherokee L’s handling is responsive and precise, making it feel more agile and sporty than the Pilot.
Verdict: The Grand Cherokee L takes the lead in performance, thanks to its optional V8 engine and more engaging handling dynamics.
Technology and Features: Staying Connected and Entertained
Keeping everyone entertained and connected is crucial for any family road trip. Let’s see how the Pilot and Grand Cherokee L fare in the tech department:
Honda Pilot: The Pilot comes equipped with a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features. It also offers optional features like a premium sound system and a panoramic sunroof.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L boasts a larger touchscreen infotainment system with a sleek design and a responsive interface. It also offers a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Verdict: Both SUVs offer impressive technology features, but the Grand Cherokee L’s larger touchscreen and more advanced safety features give it a slight edge.
Fuel Efficiency: Stretching the Miles
Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for families who frequently embark on long road trips.
Honda Pilot: The Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L’s 3.6-liter V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. The V8 engine, while more powerful, comes at the expense of fuel efficiency, delivering 14 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined.
Verdict: The Honda Pilot wins in fuel efficiency, especially when considering the V6 engine option in the Grand Cherokee L.
Off-Road Prowess: Conquering the Trails
For families who love exploring off-the-beaten path, off-road capabilities are essential. Here’s how the Pilot and Grand Cherokee L measure up:
Honda Pilot: The Pilot offers a standard all-wheel-drive system that provides enhanced traction and stability on slippery surfaces. While it’s not designed for hardcore off-roading, the Pilot can handle moderate trails and light snow.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Grand Cherokee L is renowned for its off-road prowess. It offers a variety of off-road-focused trims, including the Trailhawk, which features a Quadra-Lift air suspension, skid plates, and a disconnecting sway bar. These features allow the Grand Cherokee L to tackle challenging terrain with confidence.
Verdict: The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the clear winner in off-road capabilities, thanks to its available off-road trims and advanced features.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for Your Family
Both the Honda Pilot and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L are excellent family SUVs that offer a blend of space, comfort, performance, and technology.
Choose the Honda Pilot if:
- You prioritize fuel efficiency and a comfortable, spacious cabin.
- You need a reliable and easy-to-drive SUV for everyday use.
- You occasionally venture off-road but don’t need hardcore off-road capabilities.
Choose the Jeep Grand Cherokee L if:
- You want a luxurious and stylish SUV with a premium feel.
- You desire powerful performance and engaging handling dynamics.
- You frequently explore off-road trails and need a capable off-roader.
Ultimately, the best choice for your family depends on your individual needs and priorities. Take both SUVs for a test drive and see which one best fits your lifestyle and budget.
What You Need to Learn
1. What is the starting price for each SUV?
The starting price for the Honda Pilot is around $38,000, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee L starts at around $40,000.
2. Which SUV offers more cargo space?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers slightly more cargo space than the Honda Pilot, particularly with the third row folded down.
3. Are both SUVs available with all-wheel drive?
Yes, both the Honda Pilot and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L are available with all-wheel drive.
4. What are the main safety features included in each SUV?
Both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
5. Which SUV is better for towing?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L has a higher towing capacity than the Honda Pilot, making it a better choice for families who need to tow trailers or boats.
