2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander | SUV Comparison in Skokie, IL
Choosing between the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2025 Toyota Highlander?
For Skokie-area drivers seeking comfort, capability, and confidence through all seasons, the Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out as the more versatile and rugged SUV.
Whether you’re navigating downtown Chicago traffic or planning weekend escapes into northern Wisconsin, the Grand Cherokee gives you a more rewarding driving experience.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Toyota Highlander Comparison Table
| Feature | 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 2025 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Max Horsepower | 375 hp (4xe) | 265 hp (Turbo I4) |
| Max Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| 3-Row Seating Option | Yes (Grand Cherokee L) | Yes |
| Advanced 4WD System | Yes (Quadra-Drive II, etc.) | AWD only |
| Trail-Rated Trim Available | Yes (Trailhawk) | No |
| Passenger Screen | Available | Not available |
| Plug-In Hybrid Option | Yes (4xe) | Yes (HEV only, no PHEV) |
| Terrain Management System | Yes (Selec-Terrain®) | Limited off-road tuning |
Performance and Capability: Which SUV Has More Power and Control?
When it comes to capability, the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee horsepower and traction systems give it an edge over the Highlander.
The Grand Cherokee offers multiple powertrains designed to handle more demanding terrain and weather conditions, including snow, ice, and mud—ideal for tackling Chicago winters.
Available Jeep Grand Cherokee Engines:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 – 293 horsepower
- 5.7L HEMI V8 – 357 horsepower (in 2024 Grand Cherokee L, availability TBD for 2025)
- 2.0L Turbo Plug-In Hybrid 4xe – 375 horsepower, 470 lb-ft of torque
The Highlander offers a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder and a hybrid setup, both geared more toward fuel economy than performance. It simply doesn’t match the off-road capability or raw torque of the Grand Cherokee’s available 4xe and V8 options.
Advantage: Jeep Grand Cherokee – More powerful engine options, greater torque, and true four-wheel drive capability for all-terrain confidence.
Drivability in Harsh Conditions: Which SUV Handles Chicago Winters Better?
The best SUV for Chicago winters is one that can confidently handle snow-covered streets, icy alleys, and sudden lake-effect weather.
The Grand Cherokee offers available Quadra-Trac II® 4x4 and Quadra-Drive II® 4x4 systems with Selec-Terrain® traction management. You can switch between drive modes like Snow, Mud, and Sand to optimize grip.
The Toyota Highlander comes with available all-wheel drive, but it lacks the low-range gearing and hill-descent control that make the Grand Cherokee a favorite among winter drivers in the Midwest.
Advantage: Jeep Grand Cherokee – More advanced 4x4 systems and traction control for reliable winter performance.
Interior and Space: Comfort for Families and Daily Drivers
Both SUVs offer two- and three-row seating, but the 2025 Grand Cherokee L configuration offers more interior flexibility for families who need room for up to seven passengers. The cabin is outfitted with soft-touch materials, premium finishes, and modern tech.
Grand Cherokee Interior Highlights:
- Available 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5
- Optional 10.25-inch front passenger screen
- Available Nappa leather upholstery
- Dual-pane panoramic sunroof
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
The Highlander features an intuitive layout but prioritizes efficiency over luxury in its standard trims. Grand Cherokee, especially in Limited and Overland trims, offers a richer, more upscale cabin feel.
Advantage: Jeep Grand Cherokee – More premium materials and a tech-forward interior experience.
Towing Capacity: Which SUV Can Tow More?
When it comes to Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Highlander towing, the difference is substantial. The Grand Cherokee is built with real towing and hauling in mind, while the Highlander prioritizes passenger efficiency.
- Grand Cherokee max towing: Up to 7,200 pounds (V8) or 6,000 pounds (4xe)
- Toyota Highlander max towing: 5,000 pounds (gas), 3,500 pounds (hybrid)
Whether you’re hauling a boat to Lake Michigan or towing a camper for a summer road trip, the Grand Cherokee has the upper hand.
Advantage: Jeep Grand Cherokee – Stronger towing specs and more configurations designed for trailering.
Off-Road Capability: Who Takes the Trail Further?
If you’re shopping for a 3-row SUV with off-road capability, the Grand Cherokee is in a class of its own. It offers Trail Rated® trims like the Trailhawk, along with multiple 4x4 systems, adaptive air suspension, and even electronic limited-slip rear differential.
The Highlander has no equivalent to this level of trail-readiness.
Advantage: Jeep Grand Cherokee – Real off-road capability with multiple hardware and software systems designed for uneven terrain.
Test Drive the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee at Sherman Dodge in Skokie, IL
Whether you're looking for luxury, performance, or confidence through winter weather, the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers on all fronts.
Visit Sherman Dodge in Skokie to explore our available inventory and schedule a test drive.
Experience why Grand Cherokee is the right SUV for families, adventurers, and daily drivers in the Chicago area.
View InventoryFrequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Yes. The Grand Cherokee L offers three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, making it ideal for families needing space and flexibility.
Depending on the powertrain, the 2025 Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,200 pounds, making it one of the most capable midsize SUVs in its class.
The Grand Cherokee is often considered one of the best SUVs for Chicago winters thanks to its available advanced 4x4 systems, snow driving mode, and adaptive traction control. It’s built for confident winter handling.
Horsepower ranges from 293 hp with the standard V6, up to 375 hp in the 4xe plug-in hybrid, and higher in select configurations with the V8. This gives drivers multiple levels of performance based on their needs.
Yes. The Grand Cherokee 4xe is a plug-in hybrid electric model that combines efficiency with strong performance, offering 375 horsepower and up to 470 lb-ft of torque.
Absolutely. The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk trim and available Quadra-Drive II® 4x4 system provide real off-road capability, far beyond what the Toyota Highlander can offer.
You can test drive the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee at Sherman Dodge in Skokie, Illinois.