Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Ford Edge

1. Introduction

In 2006, Jeep launched a redesign mid-cycle for the WK, to address noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) issues and stiffen the body by increasing the use of high-strength steel. Jeep also aimed to make the Grand Cherokee more comfortable, upscale, and quiet, while at the same time, making it more capable off-road.

The original Grand Cherokee, launched in 1993, was a refined evolution of the rugged Cherokee that helped to ignite the SUV craze in the early 1990s. The term 'luxury SUV' still seems a bit of an oxymoron, but the Grand Cherokee was not far from epitomizing it, particularly in top-level form. This generation Grand Cherokee was available with the following engines: The standard 3.7 L Power-Tech V6 from the Jeep Liberty did not prove to be as popular as the much more refined 4.0 L AMC derived inline-six that was a carryover from the previous generation. A 4.7 L Power-Tech V8 engine, also a carryover from the previous generation, was available. The V8 was the first engine to carry the Power-Tech name, but it was more or less a traditional push-rod OHV engine. This V8 engine was also employed in the Dodge Dakota and Durango. (Dyer, 2023)

The mid-size SUV has become a mainstay in the suburban driveway, which is why it is critical that consumers know as much as possible about the different offerings in the segment, especially vehicles that might be next on their shopping list. The 2005-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2007-2010 Ford Edge are two prime candidates.

1.1. Overview of Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2004 model Jeep Grand Cherokee will exhibit even a lot more luxurious characteristics inside. The most luxurious Overland model will boast a steering wheel in wood/leather, a leather-wrapped shifter, and also a limited availability of the medium slate interior.

Jeep wants to increase its edge in the mid-sized SUV marketplace by providing the Grand Cherokee a fresh exterior. The newest Grand Cherokee has a quite stunning look that should attract a wide range of customers. The base Laredo design and style features a brand new low-gloss egg crate grille on the front fascia. The Limited style attributes a chrome low-gloss egg crate grille, both the Limited and the Overland styling is enhanced with the availability of bright grille. The Overland now is bearing its rugged character with a brand new body colour fascia plus cladding. Step rails are no longer available on the Overland and are optional rather than regular equipment on Limited. Also optional on the base Laredo model and regular on the Limited model is a fresh 17-inch wheel style. The Laredo and Limited models are accessible with a fresh non-stick paint which currently is obtainable in charcoal grey as well as black. The Overland has just undergone a refreshing exterior modification. This model has a new body-colour fascia and cladding. Step rails are no longer available on the Overland and limited just to optional accessories. (Naseem)(Hindam, 2020)(Baas)(Cherokees)(Brew, 2021)

Jeep auto manufacturers have always known precisely what they're engaging in with this kind of vehicle. Nevertheless, not often do they realize how they're going to do it also. Using the Grand Cherokee, they have way more of an notion than previously. Focusing on the less well off, who want prestigious appears and performance with a lesser price tag, Jeep has launched the rugged as well as good-looking Overland and the sporty, value-oriented Freedom designs.

1.2. Overview of Ford Edge

In addition, the new Edge offers many standard and optional features that were not previously available. Newly available options include adaptive cruise control, intelligent brake assist, blind spot information system, cross-traffic alert, and AdvanceTrac with roll stability control. Standard features include MyKey, EasyFuel capless fuel filler, enunciator, and torus Homelink interior controls. Other technological advances consist of a revised navigation system and SYNC. Microsoft and Ford are working to enhance the overall experience and performance level of SYNC's voice control interface.

Completely new for 2011, the second generation Ford Edge is offered with two powertrain options. The standard engine is a 2.0L EcoBoost offered in the front-wheel-drive version only, and the 3.5L Duratec engine is available in both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive versions. The new 2.0L EcoBoost engine will provide satisfying performance levels and a much-improved average fuel economy. Physical changes include a gloss black painted grille with chrome accents, restyled front and rear fenders, a more defined hood, and a choice of 18, 20, and 22-inch wheels. Other upgrades include a retuned suspension and Ford's new intelligent access with push-button start.

The Ford Edge was originally introduced for the 2007 model year and built on the Mazda 6-based Ford Fusion. Classified as a medium to large SUV, the Edge has a spacious cabin able to hold up to five adult passengers. The Edge is Ford's first entry into the two-row midsize SUV segment and was designed to compete against the Nissan Murano and offerings from Hyundai and Toyota.

2. Exterior Features

When the Edge was first released, its design was quite futuristic compared to the dull interior and exterior designs of other Ford models. But after its 2011 facelift (pun intended), the Grand Cherokee had a more rugged but sleek design style. The front grille to the headlights and taillights all give an aggressive modern look to the Grand Cherokee. Personally, as much as I like the new look of the Grand Cherokees, the design may be a bit too much for the previous generation Jeep consumers. The Edge took quite a bit of styling from the Land Rover models and still maintains a modern design to the present day. The full-body silver grille gives an executive look and leaves the vehicle looking less sporty but more luxurious. In terms of exterior quality, both cars are lined well, but a loop over to the Ford gets the extra slight nod. Between these two mid-size SUVs, the choice of look is relative to personal taste. Each car mirrors its competitor in different ways, but the real factor is if the car matches a preferred self-image by its buyer.

The new Ford Edge has been around for almost a decade, while the Grand Cherokee has been around since 1992, only taking a few years off in between. Two years back in 2008, Chrysler's response to the Edge was the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland. Its main goal was to set a new class of luxury, becoming more popular towards the later years of the previous decade but still maintaining some ruggedness. Before going on to discuss the exterior features of the two cars, remember that the Edge is priced at around $40k for the Titanium, which competes with the higher-end Grand Cherokees. Starting from 2013, Jeep released an 8-speed transmission for the Grand Cherokees to improve fuel efficiency.

2.1. Design and Styling

The design and style of a car is one of the most important things for many consumers, as the appeal of the vehicle may be the main reason why someone likes it. The Grand Cherokee has undergone some slight design changes from its predecessor, with a new front fascia, 17-inch aluminum wheels, smaller headlights, and a resculpted front door. The rear liftgate has also been resculpted, making for a deeper perimeter with black appliqué. Ford has restyled the front and rear fascias, grille, and wheel designs. Although these are all design changes, they do not affect the appeal of the car in a major way. Both of these makes are known for their style, which are relatively unaltered in their new designs of the Grand Cherokee and Edge. This was a large fall for the Edge, which only had largely noticeable changes in the front grille and a reshaping of the tail lights. The Grand Cherokee has always been a very appealing vehicle. Current model Jeeps have been adopting the "retro" look of the original Jeeps, and our group felt that the appearance of the Grand Cherokee was quite different from earlier and that of other Jeeps. Even though the changes are not huge, the Grand Cherokee is still a stylish car. Both cars fall in the mid-range of vehicle size, and even now the Grand Cherokee still looks like a vehicle that can be taken off-road. This is important as many of the loyal customers of this model are outdoor enthusiasts who like to horse trailer or tow boats. (Schmitt, 2020)(Esteban Macho, 2023)(Ghosh et al.2020)(Hindam, 2020)(Orlov, 2024)

2.2. Dimensions and Size

The Grand Cherokee has even more interior room, however relatively much less freight area than the edge. This is due to its larger outside percentages. Rear legroom is more detailed in between the two vehicles, however the raised elevation of the Grand Cherokee suggests better clearance for rear residents. At the pole positions, leg room as well as clearance are commensurate with the larger dimensions of the Grand Cherokee. The interior measurements of the Grand Cherokee are:

The Edge is not almost as large as the Grand Cherokee, as well as this impacts interior space and also comfort. The side makes good use of the room it has with a large freight location and also charitable rear seat legroom. It has an optimum cargo area of 69 cu ft with the rear seats folded, and also 32 cu ft with the seats up. This is useful for relocating things around, especially with the a great deal of rear seats legroom. The interior measurements of the Edge are:

The dimensions of two cars are considerably different. The Grand Cherokee is much more substantial as well as taller than the Edge. The Grand Cherokee is 11" longer, 4" wider, and also 5" taller than the side. This causes a huge difference in interior space and also exterior existence. The additional size as well as size is much more useful for outdoor camping journeys, towing trailers, and packaging a lot of individuals and equipment around. The benefit of the smaller sized dimension of the edge is that many individuals feel it is less complicated to steer and also park, however the disadvantage is less general freight room and interior space.

2.3. Lighting and Visibility

Overall, both vehicles offer a range of different features that will add to the attractiveness and improvement of safety when driving in all different conditions.

The Ford Edge, however, provides automatic headlamps with wiper activated headlamp function and LED signature lighting with configurable daytime running lamp feature. The auto headlamps work simply by switching on and off. The headlamps themselves can adjust the beam depending on the speed and light of the environment. The LED signature lighting can intensify the headlight in the correct place when turning to light the way. Night vision has also been improved due to the LED technology on the tail lamps. The lighting and visibility for the Edge is also enhanced with a panoramic Vista Roof, which can allow much air and light when open and a wide view of the sky during the day.

Jeep Grand Cherokee offers vibrant and powerful halogen quad-headlamps with a signature LED light. The Grand Cherokee makes a statement both day and night. The Jeep can be seen from afar due to the daytime running lamps and with the automatic high-beam headlamps, which can intensify and dim the light automatically depending on the surroundings. Additionally, the headlamp washer system and the fog lamps allow for better visibility and safety when driving in harsh weather conditions. A feature unique to the Grand Cherokee is the available CommandView dual-pane sunroof. It allows for all passengers to get fresh air and open sky and can be seen night and day with the double pane design and special UV protection coating, which also protects against excessive heat and glare.

3. Interior Features

The Jeep Grand Cherokee seats five people on standard cloth upholstery. A power-adjustable driver's seat, two-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are also standard. In comparison, the Ford Edge's cabin seats five passengers. It comes standard with cloth upholstery, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and reclining rear seats. Optional seating features include leather, power-adjustable front passenger seat, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Both vehicles have very similar features; however, the seating is more comfortable in the Grand Cherokee with better head and leg space.

The 2019 Grand Cherokee is one of the top-ranking vehicles in the SUV category. Known for its stylish design, which is both handsome and rugged, the cabin space for the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee, on average, is 105.4 cubic feet for seating five passengers, as compared to the 2019 Ford Edge, which is 111.5 cubic feet. In the Jeep Grand Cherokee, there is plenty of head and leg space in comparison to the Edge, where there is a lack of head space. This is especially true in the rear, where taller passengers might feel cramped with the Edge's sloping roofline.

3.1. Cabin Space and Comfort

'Peace & Quiet' is always a very nice element of a vehicle that usually makes a long trip that little bit nicer. All Ford Edge variants are available with an upgrade to a classy Sony Audio with 12 speakers. This audio system is DVD compatible and will sound great. The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with a 6-speaker audio system on Limited and Overland models, with an impressive 10-speaker Infinity Gold audio system with a 6-disc CD changer to be found in the Overland model only.

The Ford Edge's cabin space is very much the same as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Edge variants are also equipped with electric seats and climate control. The back seat of the Edge reclines, and it also slides forward and back to allow a choice between more legroom or more cargo space. Both of these SUVs boast good cargo space, but the Edge's extra dimension shows to make it considerably more spacious in its rear area. A specification has been given below to explain.

Jeep Grand Cherokee's interior space and cabins are very comfortable and give you a smooth ride, ideal for those longer trips. The Jeep Grand Cherokee variants are very large in the back, with more than enough room for three children or even three adults. The seating is supportive and the driving position is just right, with higher variants having electric seats with memory positioning for the driver. Climate control is standard, with the higher variants having dual climate control.

3.2. Technology and Infotainment

Jeep’s Uconnect system uses an 8.4-inch or 5-inch display screen with buttons or touchscreen climate controls. The system also has voice recognition, WiFi and 3G connectivity, and SiriusXM travel link. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers several different hi-tech features. These features include a 7-inch full-color multi-view display, automatic high-beam headlamps, Forward Collision Warning system, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Ready Alert Braking, and the all-new ParkView rear back-up camera. Step into the limelight with the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, featuring best-in-class 4x4 capability, handcrafted luxury, and available options that can easily transform your trips—both short and long—into journeys worth remembering. In light of the current situation, you can now purchase your new Jeep at home, and we will deliver it to you. The Ford Edge is loaded with the most cutting-edge driver-assist features available in the market today. Utilizing light radar sensors, the Edge contains the Blind Spot Information System, which can help you be aware of surrounding vehicles that you may not see. The system will alert you through a small light on the corresponding side-view mirror. Another feature is the Lane-Keeping system, which assists in reducing the risk of unintentional drifting out of your lane by vibrating the steering wheel and applying extra torque to it. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking is designed to scan the road ahead and can alert you to potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians detected in your path. If an impact is imminent, the system can apply the brakes. This vehicle includes other features such as adaptive LED headlamps, Evasive Steering Assist, and Post-Collision Braking. The Ford Edge goes to great lengths to ensure your safety through innovative technology. That said, other technologies in the Edge are available from several of Ford’s other sedans and SUVs. These features include FordPass Connect, wireless charging, Remote Start System, SiriusXM Radio, and navigation. As a vehicle that is on the edge—no pun intended—of cross-compatibility with various Fords, it has a lot to offer in terms of differing tastes in technology.

3.3. Cargo Capacity

On a curiously interesting feature, the optional dual-pane sunroof in the Grand Cherokee reduces headroom too low over the rear seats. Therefore, the rear seats do not fold fully flat. This makes cargo loading more difficult, although the resulting semi-indoor seating experience is actually quite pleasant. It should be noted that the flat-folding front passenger seat on the Grand Cherokee allows the Jeep to accommodate longer items than the Edge, which maxes out at carrying the same 8-foot 2x4 that is standard for most vehicles in this class.

The Grand Cherokee and Edge are both value-conscious, high-quality crossover SUVs. The cargo area is generous in both, but the Edge is notably larger than the Grand Cherokee. With all seats in place, the Ford provides a competitive 32.2 cubic feet of space, while the Jeep only musters 17.2 cubic feet. The maximum cargo capacity figures are 68.9 cubic feet for the Edge and 64.4 cubic feet for the Grand Cherokee. The Ford's figures are among the best in the crossover class, while the Jeep is about average. The Edge also provides a substantial under-floor storage bin, while the Grand Cherokee has a full-size spare tire.

4. Performance and Handling

The Ford Edge offers three engines, all of which are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting mode and front-wheel drive. All engines are available with all-wheel drive for an additional cost. The base SE, SEL, and Titanium models come with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. This engine is what the majority of buyers will opt for due to its combination of performance and efficiency. The Sport and Titanium models come with a 2.7L V6 engine that puts out 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides strong acceleration and is the best choice for those looking for a more spirited driving experience. For those focused mainly on fuel efficiency, the base SE model has a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine available for front-wheel drive models only. This engine outputs 220 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Step up from the base model and this engine is no longer an option.

Jeep vehicles are known for their off-road capabilities and the Grand Cherokee is not an exception to the rule. The base engine offered is a 3.6L V6 engine that outputs 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is offered in all trim levels. Limited, Overland, and Summit models offer a 5.7L V8 engine that outputs 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The Trailhawk model utilizes the same engine but adds a unique four-wheel drive system, an adjustable air suspension, and some various off-road driving settings. The most performance-oriented engine offered is the 6.4L V8, which is exclusive to the SRT model. This engine produces a healthy 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the Summit trim has a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine option that produces 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. This engine is suited for those looking for a great deal of torque and increased fuel efficiency.

4.1. Engine Options

The SRT vehicle comes with a 6.4-liter V8 engine, pushing out a grand 475 horsepower. This engine is perfect for Jeep enthusiasts who need the power and speed of a sports car, yet still want to maintain the practicality of a large SUV. The fuel economy of this vehicle isn't too bad, with a road test of the 2012 model recording 18 miles per gallon over a 668-mile range. The engine range is capped off with the Trackhawk model, which features a 6.2-liter V8 supercharged engine that produces a whopping 707 horsepower. This engine definitely is not made for the average consumer, but for a car that can do 0-60 in 3.5 seconds and a quarter mile in 11.6 seconds at 116 mph, this ultimate performance vehicle will still feel like a Jeep at heart, albeit a Jeep on steroids.

Both of these engines are 2014 Top 10 engine winners. The V6 engine features innovative technology such as Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and Variable Valve Timing (VVT). The PWM, combined with the VVT, allows for better fuel economy and a gain in horsepower, along with smoother transitions between cylinders and a seamless possible transition from V6 to V4, an increase in the late model tech feature Multidisplacement System (MDS). This technology is difficult to display in a road test, although a test 300C featuring the same engine and VVT/MDS technology hit a near 30 miles per gallon output from a 360-mile round trip, including a 40-mile round trip over hilly motorway.

Step up to the Overland and Summit models, and you will receive a 5.7-liter V8 engine. This powerful engine produces 360 horsepower and can tow up to 7,400 pounds, superior to most other large V8 SUV vehicles. Bear in mind that advancements in technology and fuel affordability have made the V8 engine no longer much more expensive than the V6 to maintain. Prices of these larger engines can be compared to V8 performance versions of the same vehicles (i.e., Laredo = Laredo V8), so unless a considerable amount more fuel is going to be used, the price comparison isn't that much different between V6 and V8.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a vehicle that comes with a variety of engine options. This allows the buyer to personalize the vehicle specifically to their needs and budget. Starting the range off is a 3.6-liter V6 engine, which is standard in the Laredo and Limited models. It produces an impressive 293 horsepower, an improvement from the previous models with the V6 engine. It provides an effective balance in fuel economy and power output. Independent tests of the vehicle show that a 0-60 time can be achieved in 9.0 seconds, with a 15.6-second quarter-mile at 87 mph. This is slightly behind the factory-stated 0-60 time of 8.7 seconds, but still enough to pull away from most vehicles on the road today.

4.2. Fuel Efficiency

Finally, the 3.6L V6 petrol engine will offer a more cost-effective fuel usage ranging around 11.0L/100km when driving in the city and 8.4L/100km when driving on the highway.

The 5.7L V8 engine features Fuel Saver MDS Technology and has an estimated fuel consumption of 14.4L/100km for city driving and 9.0L/100km for highway driving. The biggest fuel guzzler of the Grand Cherokee range goes to the 6.4L SRT. This will consume 20.7L/100km when driving within the city yet drops to 10.7L/100km when driving on the highway. This model features an Eco Mode, which can be activated to moderate its fuel usage. The SRT also features a high-performance Brembo brake system with world-class stopping power at 35 meters and 100 km/h. This offers the best on-road handling and stopping distance of any vehicle in the SUV segment. This sounds impressive compared to many sports cars with similar or lesser stopping power. The Brembo high-performance brake system will reduce braking distance in both wet and dry conditions, improving handling for the Grand Cherokee.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with a 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel V6 engine. When tested in real-world conditions, it consumes what the experts claim is 'impressive' fuel economy with the standard 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 engine. Varying between city and highway driving, the V6 will consume 14.1L/100km and 9.0L/100km respectively. The V6 engine features Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which improves fuel efficiency by shutting down four of the eight cylinders when extra power is not needed.

4.3. Driving Dynamics and Handling

The Ford Edge has about 0.3" less ground clearance when compared to the Grand Cherokee, with the Edge having 8.0" and the Grand Cherokee having 8.6". However, the Edge has quite impressive handling characteristics for a crossover SUV. Most of the Ford Edge's suspension components are shared with the Ford Fusion, which is a sedan, and this results in a well-composed vehicle on the road that offers a confident and stable ride. The steering of the Edge is impressively good for a crossover vehicle and offers a precise and well-weighted feel. The ride is quiet and the body is well-isolated from the road. Despite the good on-road ride and handling, the Edge isn't competitive for an off-road enthusiast or someone utilizing an SUV for the ground clearance in an area with heavy snowfall.

For both off-road oriented individuals and on-road oriented individuals, the Grand Cherokee provides a comfortable ride that is compliant and well controlled. There is the possibility of selecting an air-suspension system that makes the ride even better, which can change the ground clearance for off-road challenges, as well as for entry and exit. The air-suspension also enhances the on-road ride comfort and handling. On the base Laredo model, a set of seventeen-inch wheels is equipped with a thin layer of rubber to aid on-road grip and ride comfort. Step up to the Limited model and you get upgraded 18-inch wheels, and the Overland model includes 20-inch wheels with a variety of tires suitable for either on-road grip or off-road traction and toughness. Although the Ford Edge isn't a true off-roader like the Grand Cherokee, it does possess a chain-driven AWD system which the Ford Edge can utilize in scenarios that involve snow or ice, which is usual in the winter. The AWD system is not meant for serious off-road challenges, but the Edge is capable of handling light off-road trail use.

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