Finding the right SUV isn't just about choosing the one with the biggest engine or the newest technology. It's about finding the vehicle that fits the way you live.
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2026 Honda Passport are two of the most capable two-row SUVs on the market, but they appeal to different drivers. The Grand Cherokee blends premium comfort with legendary Jeep capability, while the Passport emphasizes spaciousness, practicality, and everyday confidence. Here's how they compare.
Key Takeaways
- The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers more powertrain choices, including a plug-in hybrid, and greater off-road capability.
- The Honda Passport provides generous passenger space, excellent standard features, and a rugged design that's ready for weekend adventures.
- Both SUVs include advanced driver-assistance technology, modern infotainment systems, and available all-wheel drive.
- Your choice depends on whether you value premium capability or practical simplicity.
Which SUV Is Better for Off-Road Adventures?
Both SUVs are comfortable on the highway, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee was engineered with more serious off-road capability in mind.
Available systems like Quadra-Drive II, the Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, and the Quadra-Lift Air Suspension help the Grand Cherokee adapt to changing conditions. Whether you're driving through deep sand, climbing a rocky trail, or crossing a muddy campsite after heavy rain, these systems automatically help maximize traction and ground clearance when you need it most.
The Quadra-Drive II automatically lowers the Grand Cherokee to improve aerodynamics and ride comfort. When approaching rough terrain, it can raise the SUV several inches to help clear rocks, ruts, or uneven trails. Instead of worrying about scraping the underside of the vehicle, drivers simply select the appropriate drive mode and let the suspension do the work
The Honda Passport is no stranger to adventure. Its available all-wheel-drive system and Intelligent Traction Management provide additional confidence in snow, dirt, and gravel. The Passport TrailSport also adds off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, steel skid plates, and improved approach angles for drivers who enjoy exploring beyond paved roads. While it isn't intended for extreme rock crawling, it's more than capable of handling forest service roads and weekend camping trips (Car and Driver).
Which SUV Gives You More Powertrain Choices?
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out by offering one of the widest selections of powertrains in the midsize SUV segment. Buyers can choose the proven 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, an available 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 on select trims, or the innovative 4xe plug-in hybrid. The 4xe combines a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque while also providing an EPA-estimated 25 miles of all-electric driving. For families with short daily commutes, that can mean completing errands or driving to work without using any gasoline before the gas engine automatically takes over for longer trips.
The Honda Passport keeps things simple with a single naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Rather than asking buyers to choose between multiple engines, Honda focuses on refining one well-balanced powertrain that delivers smooth acceleration, dependable reliability, and confident passing power for everyday driving.
| Feature | 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 2026 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Largest Touchscreen | 10.1 inches | 12.3 inches |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Android Auto™ | Standard | Standard |
| Digital Driver Display | Available 10.25 inches | Standard 10.2 inches |
| Unique Feature | Available Front Passenger Display | Google Built-In & CabinConnect™ |
Which SUV Offers More Cargo Space?
The Honda Passport was designed with utility in mind. It offers approximately 44 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and expands to nearly 84 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The wide cargo opening and low load floor make it easy to load larger items like coolers, bicycles, or folding tables (Honda).
The Jeep Grand Cherokee provides about 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. While it doesn't match the Passport's overall capacity, it offers a more premium cabin with higher-quality materials and excellent sound insulation, creating a quieter environment during long drives (Edmunds)
Why People Love to Buy from Alan Jay
Whether you're looking for a refined SUV that's ready for off-road adventures or a spacious daily driver built for family road trips, Alan Jay CDJR in Wauchula is here to help. Our knowledgeable team can walk you through available trims, demonstrate the latest technology, and help you find the SUV that fits your lifestyle. That's the Alan Jay Way.