Mid-to-Large SUVs Tested: Why the Jeep Grand Cherokee Edges Out Rivals
When families or professionals need a vehicle that balances passenger comfort, cargo capacity, and off-road capability without stepping into the massive footprint of a full-size hauler, mid-to-large SUVs offer a sweet spot. We recently tested three contenders in this segment, the 2026 Ineos Grenadier, the Chevrolet Suburban, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and found that while each excels in its niche, one emerges as the most well-rounded choice for everyday drivers.
The Suburban is a full-size titan, but the Grand Cherokee’s three-row configuration and refined powertrain make it a standout in the slightly smaller class.
The Ineos Grenadier serves a vanishingly small audience. 0-liter turbo inline-six (282 hp, 332 lb-ft) and solid axles for serious off-road work. But on pavement, the steering requires constant corrections, wind noise is intrusive at highway speeds, and fuel economy is poor. It tows 7,716 lbs and offers physical toggle switches for diffs, yet its utilitarian nature limits daily usability.
7 cubic feet of max cargo and a third row that fits adults comfortably. 0L Duramax diesel (305 hp, 495 lb-ft) delivers impressive highway efficiency for a 6,000-lb vehicle, and Super Cruise hands-free driving is a game-changer. But its sheer size makes tight parking a chore.
That brings us to the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. 0L turbo four (324 hp, 332 lb-ft) on upper trims, which provides a flatter torque curve and better fuel efficiency than the outgoing V8. 9 inches of ground clearance and 24 inches of water-fording capability, keeping Jeep’s off-road DNA intact.
Inside, Summit trims feature matte oak trim and quilted Nappa leather, a leap in luxury. The Uconnect 5 system operates seamlessly. The only notable flaw: turbo lag from a stop can cause a momentary hesitation. Still, for a three-row SUV that crawls rocks on Saturday and shuttles soccer teams on Sunday, the Grand Cherokee L strikes the best balance.
It’s not full-size, but it doesn’t need to be.
Source: CarBuzz
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