
Grand Cherokee is an impressive midsize SUV that boasts a luxurious interior, exceptional off-road and on-road capabilities, remarkable towing capacity, and powerful engines. But what about Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 vs V8?
A Jeep Grand Cherokee with a v6 engine has lower torque, horsepower, towing capacity, and fuel consumption than one with a v8 engine. The V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, tows up to 6,200 pounds, and gets better fuel mileage than a V8. In contrast, the Grand Cherokee v8 engine produces 707 horsepower and 645 pounds-feet of torque, and it can tow up to 7200 pounds.
In this article, we will briefly discuss the major differences between the Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 vs V8. Furthermore, we will discuss which one is more suitable for you. So let’s get started.
Specifications of Grand Cherokee V6

The features that V6 offers are mind-blowing. A V6 has a number of features that will make you appreciate it very much. A V6 has the following specifications:
- There will be two rows of three cylinders in the engine.
- You can rock the roads with the V6’s horsepower.
- As you drive, the V6 engine causes the car to feel nose-heavy.
- It is more stable than any other engine to use a V6.
- V6 is not a problem for you.
- It’s fun to use V6.
Specifications of Grand Cherokee V8

You will also enjoy using V8 because it offers a lot of incredible specifications. The following are listed:
- There are eight engines in a V8.
- The engine of a V8 has two rows of four cylinders.
- The V8 offers a larger cargo capacity, which allows you to carry heavier and larger items.
- There is a lot of power in the V8 engines.
- V8s are very useful for completing worksite tasks.
- It is amazing how much power a V8 can tow.
- It is possible to tow a lot with a V8.
Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 vs V8: Basic Comparison
When buying a new Cherokee, choosing between engine options is a challenging decision.
If you had a V6 engine installed, you’d be paying less, but why not upgrade to a V8 engine? The following information should be helpful to you.
Feature | V6 Engine | V8 Engine |
Cylinder Deactivation | Standard Feature | Standard Feature |
Performance | Suited to Roads | Enhanced Off-Road Performance |
Torque | 260 lbs per ft | 390 – 645 lbs per ft |
Horsepower | 295 HP | 360 – 707 HP |
Towing Capacity | 6200 lbs | 7200 lbs |
MPG | 19-26 | 11-22 |
Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 vs V8: Detailed Comparison
1. Fuel Efficiency And Everyday Driving
Fuel economy is one of the biggest differences between V6 and V8 engines. Comparing their MPGs is as follows:
- 3.6L V6: Up to 19/26 mpg city/highway
- 5.7L V8: 14/22 mpg city/highway
- 6.4L V8: 13/19 mpg city/highway
So, While the V8s have more horsepower, their fuel economy is significantly lower than the Pentastar V6. In the long run, this can add up to hundreds of dollars in fuel costs each year.
In addition to saving you money at the pump, the V6 is suitable for buyers who do most of their driving in cities and highways. When accelerating up to highway speeds, the V6 feels responsive because of its low-end torque.
An extra power boost from the V8 will only be useful for buyers who frequently need to accelerate quickly with a full load of passengers and cargo.
2. Performance And Power
The V8 engines have a clear advantage when it comes to acceleration and passing abilities:
- 3.6L V6: 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds (est)
- 5.7L V8: 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds
- 6.4L V8: 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds
Additionally, V8s are capable of towing much larger boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, etc. The maximum towing ratings for each engine are as follows:
- 3.6L V6: 6,200 lb towing capacity
- 5.7L V8: 7,200 lb towing capacity
- 6.4L V8: 7,200 lb towing capacity
You can tow up to 7,200 pounds with a V6, while the extra torque of the V8 gives you more power when accelerating.
When it comes to powering heavy loads or towing a large trailer, V8 engines offer the best performance.
3. Off-Roading Ability
In addition to its serious off-roading capabilities, the Jeep Grand Cherokee attracts many buyers. There are a few factors to consider when comparing a V6 with a V8 engine for off-road use:
- Low-end torque – V8s provide more torque at lower RPMs, giving the vehicle more control and traction on steep, rocky trails.
- Ground clearance – No advantage for V8s here, as all engines have the same clearance.
- 4WD systems – All engines are available with identical advanced 4WD systems.
Despite the V8’s higher torque at low RPM, both engines provide robust off-road performance and capability. With the exception of extreme rock crawling, the V6 is plenty powerful.
So, Off-roading is not the sole reason most buyers upgrade to the V8. You should consider the V8 only if you drive up steep grades and over rocks frequently, where low-end power is very helpful.
4. Price And Value Comparison
Cost is one of the most important factors when choosing an engine for your Grand Cherokee:
- 3.6L V6 – Available on most Grand Cherokee models without additional charge.
- 5.7L V8 – A $3,295 upgrade on most trims. Costs are significantly higher.
- 6.4L V8 – Only available on high-end SRT and Trackhawk models starting around $69,000 and $87,000, respectively. The price is much higher.
In light of the substantial upgrade cost of the V8, its benefits need to be weighed against those of the standard V6.
Most buyers prefer the V6 because it offers a lot of power and capability for a lower price. Unless you frequently tow heavy loads close to maximum ratings or desire faster acceleration, the V6 may be a better value.
Towing heavy trailers and loads requires the 5.7L V8, which is a smart upgrade. If you plan on towing near the Grand Cherokee’s 7,200 lb maximum capacity, extra power and torque can justify the added cost.
5. Reliability And Ownership Costs
It’s also important to consider the cost and reliability of your engine over its lifetime.
In many Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles, the 3.6L V6 Pentastar engine has proven to be very reliable. The engine may experience minor problems like oil leaks, but it does not have widespread problems. Proper maintenance should extend its life well beyond 100,000 miles.
In addition to its good reliability record, the 5.7L V8 shares the basic design with the 5.7L Hemi in Ram trucks. The lifter tick noise at start-up and occasional oil leaks are potential problems to watch for. Considering it’s a V8, it’s very reliable.
There is little difference between the engines in terms of maintenance costs. Gasoline for V6s is regular, while premium fuel is required for V8s. As a result of more frequent oil changes, spark plug replacements, and brake pad replacements, V8 engines may also have higher maintenance costs than V6 engines.
The V6 and V8 are both reliable options that should serve you for many years to come. In terms of maintenance costs, the V6 may have a slight advantage.
6. Driving Experience
There is a noticeable difference between the driving experience of a V6 and a V8 engine:
There is no noticeable difference in acceleration between the V6 and the V8. The sound is refined at high speeds. Commuting and everyday driving are both perfectly acceptable in terms of performance.
There is just something more livelier about V8s, with effortless acceleration. The sound of the HEMI V8 growl enhances the sense of power. Immediately noticeable is the performance improvement.
Regardless of the engine, the Grand Cherokee is easy to control thanks to its light steering and supple ride. Nevertheless, those who enjoy acceleration and power will find the V8 more enjoyable to drive. In the case of driving enthusiasts who relish the quick responses of the HEMI, the upgrade may be worth the cost.
In contrast, those less concerned with performance may find the V6 to be perfectly adequate. Make sure the fun factor of the V8 is worth the price for you by driving both.
7. Stability and Handling
As a result of its stability and handling qualities, Grand Cherokee is one of the safest SUVs on the road. It makes the vehicle more stable and easier to handle due to the even weight distribution.
Weight distribution is even among V6 Grand Cherokee models. Due to this, driving around corners, curves, and turns is no problem.
With a V6 engine, there is less tendency to drift towards the outer edge while accelerating. Because of fewer cylinders, the car handles better due to its stability.
This engine has more cylinders than the Hemi V8. It tends to interfere with stability and performance when these extra features are present. In this situation, the vehicle may have difficulty accelerating, which might increase the risk of drifting.
The V8 engine is, therefore, difficult to improve in terms of performance. There will be a negative impact on the vehicle’s handling and stability as a result of this issue.
Under this category, the Grand Cherokee with a V6 engine wins. Weight balance is the key to stability and better handling due to the few cylinders. Jeeps are, therefore capable of negotiating tight corners without any problems.
8. Noise Production
An annoying car can produce a lot of noise while driving. Jeep drivers can laugh at you if you make this noise on the highway. Your SUV’s engine type will determine how much noise it produces.
Jeep models with V6 engines usually produce minimal noise when driving. There is no reason to worry about the noise, as it is considered normal. Driving long distances will not cause nerve fatigue due to the reduced noise.
There are numerous cylinders in the V8 engine. The Grand Cherokee generates more power as a result of these additional features. That’s why the sound is so loud. Fortunately, the great noise isn’t caused by mechanical issues.
If In order to have a more peaceful journey, a Grand Cherokee with a V6 engine would be a better choice. The noise it produces is normal and cannot irritate you. V8 engines are, therefore, losers in this category.
What are the Pros and Cons of Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 vs V8
In some ways, the V6 and V8 engines of the Grand Cherokee are very similar. Lightweight and compact, these engines provide high performance.
You need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of these Grand Cherokee models before buying. You can make the right choice by considering these special features and disadvantages.
Pros of Grand Cherokee V6
- Efficient use of fuel
- Affordably priced
- Noise production should be minimal
- Provide powerful towing capabilities.
- Better handling and more stable
Cons of Grand Cherokee V6
- Performance is low
- The toughest terrain is not ideal for this product
Pros of Grand Cherokee V8
- Capable of carrying more cargo
- Powerful at higher ceilings
- Tough terrain is not suitable for this tire
Cons of Grand Cherokee V8
- Increase fuel consumption
- Handles and stabilises poorly
- When driving, make a lot of noise
Which Jeep Buyers Should Choose The V6 Or V8?
Following all of the above factors, here are some recommendations on whether V6 or V8 engines are best for Grand Cherokee shoppers:
Consider the V6 if you:
- Focus on fuel efficiency
- Use your Jeep on a daily basis
- You want to save money on fuel and purchase costs
- Tow light loads or only occasionally
- Enjoy driving in a smooth, refined manner
You Should Choose The V8 If:
- Use the maximum towing rating regularly when towing heavy loads
- You want to accelerate and pass as fast as possible
- Take on steep, challenging terrain while off-roading
- HEMI V8 performance and sound are worth more to you
The V8 offers more power to certain buyers, while the V6 provides plenty of power to most drivers. Choosing the right engine for you requires careful consideration of your needs.
Final Words
With the V6, you get better fuel economy and a more reasonable handling experience. Offroading and challenging situations require better engine performance than V8.
The Grand Cherokee V8 engine produces more noise and consumes more fuel. For off-roading and towing heavy loads, these engines have more power and acceleration.
FAQs
What is the main difference between the Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 and V8?
The main difference is the engine size and power. The V6 has a smaller engine and less power compared to the V8.
Which Jeep Grand Cherokee model is more fuel-efficient, the V6 or V8?
Generally, the V6 is more fuel-efficient than the V8. The smaller engine size of the V6 allows for better fuel economy.
Is there a significant performance difference between the Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 and V8?
Yes, there is a noticeable performance difference. The V8 offers more horsepower and torque, resulting in better acceleration and towing capabilities than the V6.
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