The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a benchmark SUV; it's a luxury vehicle, a talented off-roader, a scalding-hot track runner, and a family wagon extraordinaire. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a great family vehicle—just one that's also potentially ready to go off-road, tow a trailer or, on occasion, do things that are more workhorse-like than you'd attempt in most other typical family crossovers.
Pros Premium look and feel Responsive 8-speed automatics Ecodiesel's 30-mpg rating, 730-mile range Easy-to-use infotainment SRT is fit for track time
Cons Quite pricey, to be without a luxury badge Grille design still not in alignment Hemi is too thirsty for what it provides No rearview camera on base Laredo
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks 8 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee gives you the best of both worlds: a rough-and-ready off-road SUV with a handsome, refined interior and comfortable performance on pavement.
Pros Excellent off-road capabilities Powerful engine lineup Upscale cabin Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Small cargo space
A Trailhawk model with extra off-road kit debuts for 2017, while the top-of-the-line Summit gets slightly revised styling and additional luxury-oriented interior garnishes. Newly available features include a self-parking system and lane departure warning. A rearview camera and rear parking sensors are now standard on every Grand Cherokee.
Pros Appealing engines, including a thrifty diesel V6 and a brawny V8 Enough off-road ability to conquer practically any trail Plush interior with plentiful luxury and technology Impressive tow ratings for the class
Cons Diesel engine is noisy at idle and low speeds Ride quality may disappoint, even with air suspension
The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is a solid bet if you want a reasonably sized crossover SUV with plenty of backseat space. You can also upgrade to a powerful V6 engine, which is an unusual treat in this class. Let's see if this veteran player still has what it takes.
Pros Backseat has plenty of space and slides/reclines for added comfort Optional V6 engine provides quick acceleration Interior stays quiet at speed Rides smoothly on rough roads.
Cons Four-cylinder version feels sluggish and real-world mpg falls short of EPA ratings Less cargo space than some rivals Quality of interior materials leaves something to be desired Bluetooth audio isn't offered on L or LS.
The 2017 Chevrolet Equinox is a solid compact crossover SUV. What it lacks in advanced powertrains, it makes up for in available tech. The Chevrolet Equinox has struck the right chord for many compact crossover buyers. It offers a range of powertrains, including front- or all-wheel drive; it can be fuel efficient; and it's relatively large.
Pros Inline-4 is frugal Space is configurable for cargo or people Plenty of power in V-6 Exterior style has been improved Relatively good tech
Cons No premium audio to speak of Rear visibility is a challenge Safety marks not quite top tier
The 2018 Chevrolet Equinox ranks 5 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The Chevrolet Equinox was redesigned for the 2018 model year and sees some admirable improvements over the outgoing generation. It has a quality interior, plenty of standard features, and a good amount of cargo and passenger space. It rides and drives confidently but can be slow to get up to speed.
Pros Plenty of standard features Quality interior Stable handling
Cons Sluggish transmission