Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Subaru Outback

Whether you’re gearing up for a jog around the park or a day’s worth of mountain biking, you need an on-road companion that can put some pep in your step. Fortunately, the Grand Cherokee and the Outback offer various engines to choose from, so you can find the right level of power you need to get moving.

Let’s explore the Jeep’s three engines first:

• 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine: 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque
• Available 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine: 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque
• Available 2.0L DI Turbo PHEV engine: 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque

On the other hand, the Subaru can be equipped with either of two engines that aren’t quite as powerful as the Jeep’s options:

• 2.5-liter engine: 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque
• Available 2.4-liter turbocharged engine: 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque

When comparing these models’ standard engines, you’ll have a more hair-raising experience in the Grand Cherokee. Plus, its larger power output allows the Jeep to tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped. Due to its lower-output engines, the Subaru can only tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Along with impressive powertrains, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Subaru Outback are made to explore. With ruggedness in their bones, these SUVs can tackle whatever terrain they meet. In fact, both models offer adventure-ready trim levels to ensure a stable footing.

However, the Trailhawk trim on the Grand Cherokee may be best suited for your more extreme adventures, thanks to its Trail Rated® badge. By wearing this badge proudly, the SUV proves its versatility in the great outdoors. Check out some of its capabilities below:

• Water fording for up to 24 inches
• 11.3-inch ground clearance
• 3 available 4×4 systems

On the other hand, drivers can opt for the Subaru Outback Wilderness—its off-road-ready trim. While it features impressive qualities of its own, it falls a bit short of the Jeep. For instance, the Subaru only sports a 9.5-inch maximum ground clearance and can only be equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

So, looking to the Jeep Grand Cherokee for your wildest rides in nature may be ideal.

When you’re not hitting the trails, we bet we can find you visiting national parks or landmarks to get your daily dose of exercise. If you prefer to do so with your crew, the Jeep Grand Cherokee can carry up to seven passengers while the Subaru Outback taps out at five.

Even with an optional third row in place, the Grand Cherokee offers more passenger room overall—145 cubic feet to be exact! On the other hand, the Outback offers 109 cubic feet of passenger room for your exercise buddies.

If you prefer to get your heart pumping by kayaking or playing a round of golf, either SUV will be able to carry your oars or clubs with ease. However, with the second and third rows down, the Jeep opens up 84.6 cubic feet of cargo volume. The Subaru falls behind once again with 75.7 cubic feet.