2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2018 Nissan Pathfinder
Posted on January 14, 2021
The Nissan Pathfinder was first introduced in 1985 as a Compact SUV. In 1995 When the first generation pathfinder was replaced with a new model in 1995 it was upsized and was then qualified as a Mid-Size SUV. In 2005 The Pathfinder became a true off-roader, available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive drivetrain, the 4WD featured a mechanical locking center differential, a 4WD low range, and aggressive ride height and approach and departure angles.
In 2013 Nissan made the decision to significantly revamp the third-generation Pathfinder, the same model for sale in 2018. In order to appeal to a broader audience Nissan made the Pathfinder a softer riding suburban hauler and along with it most of its true off-road capabilities. Now based on the same platform as the Nissan Altima it's in essence a front-wheel drive wagon with a taller stance and the option of all an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system that's inferior to the system on the previous generation.
In contrast the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee shares a rear wheel drive- four-wheel drive platform with the acclaimed Mercedes M series SUVs. And despite meeting the tough off-road standards that all Jeep SUVs must meet before they go on the market, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is as comfortable on the highway as it is capable off-road.
Let's compare the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Pathfinder in some key areas:
Engine
The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is powered by Nissan's DOHC 3.5 L V6, and develops 284 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 259 lb-ft at 4800 rpm torque. It is the only available engine in the Pathfinder. The base engine in the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the award-winning Pentastar DOHC 3.6 L V6 that produces 295-horsepower at 6400 rpm and maximum torque of 260 lb-ft at 4000 rpm. Not only is that an increase versus the Pathfinder, but there's more torque down low, where you need it whether you're off-roading or pulling a boat from the water.
In addition, certain 4WD models of the Jeep Grand Cherokee are also available with the legendary 5.7 L Hemi V8 that delivers 360-horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission
The Pathfinder offers only the continuously-variable transmission (CVT) as in the Altima where there are no gears to select. Gear ratios are altered by engine speed and load. The Jeep Grand Cherokee features a brawny eight-speed automatic transmission that can be left in full automatic mode or manually controlled by steering wheel paddle shifters. The Jeep Grand Cherokee provides the driver the added control of selecting the gear most appropriate for the driving conditions.
Four-Wheel Drive System
Nissan offers a single 4WD system on the 2018 Pathfinder, named All-Mode 4x4-i. Auto Mode will transfer power from the front or rear wheels to optimize traction. 4WD Lock Mode provides full-time four-wheel drive with equal torque driven to each axle. In addition Nissan provides promoting traction Hill Descent Control standard.
In contrast The Jeep Grand Cherokee has three proven available 4x4 systems that can tackle all weather conditions. The simple-to-use Quadra-Trac I System is a great solution for many drivers as the system is fully automatic. The Quadra-Trac II System offers low-range capability and includes a two-speed low transfer case and is mated to the Selec-Terrain Traction Management System.
The Quadra-Drive II System Quadra-Drive II 4x4 System with rear electronic limited-slip differential delivers legendary Jeep off-road capabilities. Mated to the Selec-Terrain Traction Management System the driver can quickly dial in Sport, Snow, Sand/Mud or Rock settings for industry-leading capabilities. Selec-Speed Control with Hill-ascent and Hill-descent Control allows the driver to control speed both up and down steep grades with the steering wheel paddle shifters - without the need for throttle or brake input. Unique to its segment, Grand Cherokee Hill-descent Control also works when the vehicle is in Reverse. Clearly Jeep Grand Cherokee provides a wider and more sophisticated range of 4WD options versus the Pathfinder.
Towing
The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder offers a single towing rating of 6,000 lbs. The Jeep Grand Cherokee fitted with the Pentastar 3.6 L V6 has a towing capacity of 6,200 lbs., and when fitted with the 5.7 L Hemi V8, towing capacity jumps to a best-in-class 7,200 Ibs.
Trail Rated
A Trail Rated badge is not given. It's earned. Every Trail Rated 4x4 Jeep vehicle has succeeded against a series of grueling tests in five categories: Traction, Water Fording, Maneuverability, Articulation and Ground Clearance. Nissan offers no such program.
High Performance Models
In addition to the traditional Jeep Grand Cherokee line-up there are two performance models available, the Grand Cherokee SRT and the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. The Trackhawk is the quickest SUV ever accelerating from 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds. Powered by a supercharged 6.2 L Hemi V8 that pumps out 707-horsepower the Jeep Cherokee Trackhawk is not for the faint of heart.
In the limited space we have there's not enough room to cover all the unique features and capabilities of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee - Limited Edition models, Performance Pages, QuadraLift air suspension, Uconnect infotainment and connectivity, and more. The only way to truly appreciate a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee is drive one, so come into CarHub - Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership and the Jeep experts there will help you determine which Grand Cherokee best suits your needs and send you out on a test drive to experience everything the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee has to offer.