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 Subaru Forester ranks 8 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Subaru Forester offers one of the lowest starting prices in the class, a competitive list of features, and the rarity of standard all-wheel drive. These make it a triple threat in the highly competitive compact SUV class.
Pros Highest cargo capacity in the class Roomy back seats Standard all-wheel drive Lots of available safety features
Cons Bland interior styling Below-average fuel economy
One of the best small SUVs, the 2017 Subaru Forester is a good value, with remarkable interior volume, thrifty fuel economy, and top safety scores. The Subaru Forester is a compact utility vehicle with wagon-like practicality and standard all-wheel drive. It has the capabilities of a crossover, the ride and handling of a car, and plenty of all-weather security and even off-road capability.
Pros Good ride, enjoyable driving Top-notch safety scores, systems Spacious cabin with super visibility Among the best CVTs around Turbo adds speedy performance
Cons Shift paddles only on turbo No manual offered with turbo Priciest models not all that premium
The 2017 Forester receives numerous updates, starting with wider feature availability, additional noise insulation and quicker steering response. The enhanced EyeSight safety system now has lane departure intervention and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Automatic high-beam headlight control is newly available, as are adaptive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking. Styling revisions include new headlights and taillights, plus a freshened grille and front end.
Pros Airy interior with plenty of room for adults in both seating rows Impressive fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive crossover Optional turbocharged engine provides spirited acceleration Above-average off-road ability
Cons CVT may seem less responsive and refined than a traditional automatic Doesn't feel as sporty around turns as some rivals Cabin design and materials aren't especially noteworthy Maximum tow rating isn't particularly robust
