2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs. 2023 Rivian R1S: Is the PHEV or Electric SUV Superior?
Nowadays, there are numerous options for people who want alternatives to gas-powered vehicles. Two of the most popular in the SUV space are the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and the 2023 Rivian R1S. Despite being similarly priced, these two full-size SUVs have their differences. Perhaps the most significant difference between the two is that one is a plug-in hybrid(PHEV), and the other is an all-electric luxury SUV.
So, what’s the difference between the two, and which is right for you?
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs. 2023 Rivian R1S: both are powerful choices
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is a powerful plug-in hybrid with much to offer regarding performance. According to Edmunds, the 2024 Grand Cherokee 4xe has a 2.0-liter inline-four with a maximum output of 375 horsepower and a torque of 470 lb-ft. This is a four-wheel drive SUV that uses an eight-speed automatic transmission. To keep things simple, all six trims of the Jeep have identical performance specifications.
Though the 4xe is excellent, the 2023 Rivian R1S may be the best choice for those who want a more powerful full-size SUV. The R1S comes standard with two electric motors that combine for a maximum output of 600 horsepower and a torque of 600 lb-ft. This is an all-wheel drive SUV that, of course, uses a one-speed direct-drive transmission. However, those who crave even more power can opt for the 835-hp quad-motor setup.
As indicated by being more powerful, the luxury SUV is faster than the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. In fact, it’s quicker than most of the competition.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs. 2023 Rivian R1S: which SUV is bigger?
People who buy full-size SUVs typically care about the space their vehicles offer. Luckily, both the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and the Rivian R1S beat much of the competition in this regard. However, the luxury SUV comes out on top of Jeep’s PHEV in most areas in terms of space.
This is also easily assumed because the 2023 R1S is the overall bigger SUV of the two, with a total length of 200.8 inches, whereas the Jeep comes in at 193.5.
When it comes to seating capacity, these two SUVs are equal as they both seat up to seven people. However, the 2023 Rivian R1S has the most total cargo space as it can accommodate 104.7 cu-ft. The Jeep 4xe isn’t far off as it allows for up to 70.8 cu-ft. However, the Jeep can handle more cargo with the seats all in place.
Regarding headroom, the Rivian allows up to 41.1 inches in the front and 39.7 inches in the back. The Jeep SUV offers 39.9 inches and 39.4 inches, respectively. Leg room in the Rivian is 41.4 inches in the front and 36.6 inches in the back. The Jeep has 41.3 inches and 38.2 inches, respectively.
These SUVs present a difference in range
There is a ton of competition on the market for various types of EVs. Luckily, both the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and the Rivian R1S shine in this regard. According to Edmunds, the plug-in hybrid Jeep offers 57 MPGe in the city and 56 MPGe on the highway. Its fuel-only economy is 23 miles per gallon in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The luxury SUV grants an impressive 74 MPGe in the city and 66 MPGe on the highway.
In terms of battery packs, the PHEV SUV has a 17.3 kWh unit that can deliver 25 miles of electric-only range. You can fully charge the battery in as little as three hours with a level 2 charger. It takes 12 hours with a level 1 charger.
The Rivian has three different battery options, with the base granting up to 260 miles on a full charge. The mid-grade option allows for 352, while the biggest battery pack grants up to 400 miles on a single charge.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs. 2023 Rivian R1S: is there a clear wiinner?
Overall, both the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and the Rivian R1S are excellent SUVs. Of course, one is a PHEV, and the other is an all-electric option, but they both offer much to buyers who want full-size SUVs.
Choosing between the two will likely come down to whether your lifestyle can accommodate a fully electric vehicle. If you have easy access to public chargers and aren’t planning to drive long distances often, picking the R1S makes plenty of sense. However, if you aren’t in a position to easily access charging networks, sticking with the plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee gives you the best of both worlds.
