Honda CR-V vs. Jeep Cherokee

Sixteen plus years ago, comparing the Honda CR-V to the Jeep Cherokee would have caused a few raised eyebrows – after all, one was a soft crossover and the other was a boxy, utilitarian SUV. When the Cherokee returned in 2014, after a 13-year hiatus, it joined the CR-V as a crossover. But while it succumbed to crossoverdom, the Cherokee managed to bring along some of the ruggedness it had back in the early-2000s.

Is the more rugged Cherokee good enough to pull buyers from the recently redesigned CR-V? Keep scrolling to find out.

See a side-by-side comparison of the CR-V & Cherokee »

What the CR-V Gets Right

When approaching the CR-V, its standard 17-inch alloy wheels immediately give it a more upscale look compared to the base Jeep's steel wheels.

Though the CR-V’s engines are no match for the Cherokee’s available V6, the turbocharged 1.5-liter, which injects 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque provides plenty of zippiness. What’s more, this small-displacement four-cylinder engine is good for up to 34 miles per gallon highway – easily besting the Cherokee’s powertrain options.

The CR-V also has a roomier cabin, with just a hair more rear seat leg room (0.1 inches) and a ton more cargo space: 14.6 more cubic feet with the rear seats up and 20.9 more cubes with the rear seats folded. The CR-V also has plenty of small storage areas throughout the cabin for tucking away smaller pocket-dwelling items.

Finally, the Honda CR-V is an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus, whereas the Cherokee isn’t even a Top Safety Pick.

What the Cherokee Gets Right

One advantage the Cherokee has over just about every competitor, not just the CR-V, is its available 3.2-liter V6 engine with 271 hp and 239 lb-ft of torque. Sure, it’s more fuel-hungry, but this six-cylinder engine delivers smooth power and respectable acceleration.

The V6 engine also plays a big part in the Cherokee’s superior 4,500-pound max towing capacity, opening this small crossover to buyers looking to haul a small boat or trailer – something the CR-V’s 1,500-pound towing capacity can’t pull off.

Finally, the Cherokee has the off-road-ready Trailhawk model and its Active Drive II four-wheel-drive system, low-range gearing, locking differential, “Rock” mode, increased ground clearance, skid plates, and tow hooks.

Who’s the Cherokee Good For

While the Cherokee isn’t a great buy for the average family when compared to the CR-V, it does have its niche. Jeep clearly designed this crossover with fans of the brand in mind. Sure, it’s softer than a Wrangler, but its let’s-get-dirty off-road capabilities and trailer-friendly towing capacity are unique for a crossover.

Verdict: Honda CR-V

While the CR-V doesn’t have the ruggedness of the Cherokee, it does fit the average crossover-buying family like a glove. It’s fuel-efficient, peppy, roomy, and delivers a smooth ride, which is more than enough to best the Cherokee.

Take a closer look at the Honda CR-V »

Take a closer look at the Jeep Cherokee »

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