Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Nissan Xterra
iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Xterra contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Nissan Xterra.
When comparing the Jeep Grand Cherokee's and the Nissan Xterra's specifications and ratings, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has the advantage in the areas of fuel efficiency, interior volume and base engine power. The Nissan Xterra has the advantage in the area of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars. Based on this comparison of the Jeep Grand Cherokee's and the Nissan Xterra's specifications and ratings, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a better car than the Nissan Xterra.
Pricing: A used 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranges from $11,900 to $23,466 while a used 2015 Nissan Xterra is priced between $10,213 to $25,498.
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s base engine makes 290 horsepower, and the Nissan Xterra base engine makes 261 horsepower. The Grand Cherokee is rated to deliver an average of 20 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 615 miles. The Xterra is rated to deliver an average of 18 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 464 miles. This gives the Jeep Grand Cherokee the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the Nissan Xterra. Both models use gasoline.
Passenger Space Comparison: The Jeep Grand Cherokee has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front shoulder room and rear leg room. The Nissan Xterra has the advantage in the areas of front leg room, rear head room, rear shoulder room, and cargo space. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Xterra are comparable in regards to front head room.
Safety Ratings: The Jeep Grand Cherokee has an average safety rating of 4.66 out of 5 Stars based on NHTSA's crash test ratings.
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
-
Starting MSRP:
$29,995
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Midsize SUVs)
$28,869
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Midsize SUVs)
$20,695 - $33,975
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
-
Starting MSRP:
$23,660
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
$23,173
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
$20,150 - $26,255
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
$17,145
Price Range:
$11,900 - $23,466
Category Avg Price:
(Midsize SUVs)
$15,966
Category Avg Price Range:
(Midsize SUVs)
$10,496 - $24,772
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
1,251
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
112,689
# Good or Great Deals:
537
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
$17,781
Price Range:
$10,213 - $25,498
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
$13,241
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
$10,060 - $17,781
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
46
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
112,054
# Good or Great Deals:
20
Jeep Grand Cherokee Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.3 / 10
Reliability:
8.6 / 10
Retained Value:
7.6 / 10
Safety:
8.7 / 10
Nissan Xterra Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
Not available
Reliability:
Not available
Retained Value:
Not available
Safety:
Not available
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for Jeep Grand Cherokee
Remaining Life Expectancy (years):
1
Typical Category Remaining Life Expectancy:
(Midsize SUVs)
1.6
Category Remaining Life Expectancy Range:
(Midsize SUVs)
0.1 - 4.7
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
20.9%
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for Nissan Xterra
Remaining Life Expectancy (years):
1.5
Typical Category Remaining Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
1.8
Category Remaining Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
0.8 - 4.4
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
38%
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
8
Typical Category Recalls:
(Midsize SUVs)
3.8
Category Range for Recalls:
(Midsize SUVs)
1.8 - 9.6
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
0.9
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
3.5
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
0.9 - 10
Jeep Grand Cherokee Rankings
Ranking
1 out of / 1Ranking
4 out of / 67Ranking
4 out of / 32Ranking
7 out of / 67Ranking
7 out of / 7Ranking
8 out of / 32Ranking
10 out of / 32Ranking
10 out of / 18Ranking
10 out of / 17Ranking
12 out of / 67Ranking
13 out of / 67Ranking
14 out of / 32Ranking
14 out of / 16Ranking
16 out of / 32Ranking
16 out of / 32Ranking
17 out of / 28Ranking
18 out of / 32Ranking
21 out of / 67Ranking
22 out of / 32Ranking
23 out of / 32Ranking
23 out of / 32Ranking
26 out of / 32Ranking
27 out of / 32Ranking
29 out of / 30Ranking
32 out of / 67Ranking
36 out of / 67Ranking
37 out of / 67Ranking
40 out of / 67Ranking
45 out of / 67Ranking
51 out of / 67Ranking
51 out of / 59Ranking
53 out of / 67Nissan Xterra Rankings
Summary Review
The two-row Jeep Grand Cherokee combines go-anywhere capability with a high level of luxury. One of Jeep’s most popular models, the Grand Cherokee is available as a basic, affordable off-road SUV or a $90K high-performance variant, with several options in-between.
Summary Review
The Nissan Xterra is a rugged two-row SUV with plenty of cargo space and a suspension designed for those with adventurous lifestyles. The Xterra was discontinued after the 2015 model year.
Pros and Cons
- Huge selection of trims
- Unmatched performance on 707 hp Trackhawk trim
- Capable of towing up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped
- No green (hybrid/electric) trims available
- Aging platform
Pros and Cons
- Powerful engine
- Off-road capability
- Durable interior materials
- Unrefined on-road ride
- Short list of standard features
- Low fuel economy
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Drivetrain Options
Diesel, Gasoline
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trim Levels
Altitude, High Altitude, Laredo, Laredo E, Limited, Overland, SRT, SRT Red Vapor Edition, Summit
Nissan Xterra Trim Levels
PRO-4X, S, X
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 100000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
5 years / 100000 miles
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
4.66 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Overall Rating:
3 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
3 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
Not yet available
2025 NHTSA Overall Rating:
3 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
Not yet available
2025 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
Not yet available
2025 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
3 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
290 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque:
260 foot-lbs @ 4800 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.064 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
261 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
281 foot-lbs @ 4000 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.063 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
3.6 liters
Engine Configuration:
V
Number of Cylinders:
6
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
4X2 / 4X4
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
17 / 25 / 20
Range (city/hwy):
418 / 615 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
4 liters
Engine Configuration:
V
Number of Cylinders:
6
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
4X2 / 4X4
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
16 / 22 / 18
Range (city/hwy):
338 / 464 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Standard/Optional Features
Alloy wheels:
Standard
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Keyless Ignition:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Roof Rack:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available
Air Suspension:
Available
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
Available
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Satellite radio:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Android Auto:
N/A
Apple CarPlay:
N/A
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Internet Radio:
N/A
Massage Seats:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Roadside assistance:
N/A
Wifi:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
N/A
Standard/Optional Features
Alloy wheels:
Available
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Keyless Ignition:
N/A
Power outlet:
Standard
Roof Rack:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Available
Adaptive Cruise Control:
N/A
Air Suspension:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
N/A
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
N/A
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Parking Sensors:
N/A
Power Lift Gate:
N/A
Satellite radio:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
N/A
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Android Auto:
N/A
Apple CarPlay:
N/A
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Internet Radio:
Available
Massage Seats:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Roadside assistance:
N/A
Wifi:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Available
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available
Forward Collision Warning:
Available
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Driver Attention Monitoring:
N/A
Lane Departure Warning:
N/A
Lane Keeping Assist:
N/A
Pedestrian Detection:
N/A
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
N/A
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Available
Blind Spot Monitoring:
N/A
Forward Collision Warning:
N/A
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Driver Attention Monitoring:
N/A
Lane Departure Warning:
N/A
Lane Keeping Assist:
N/A
Pedestrian Detection:
N/A
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
N/A
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.9 inches
Front Leg Room:
40.3 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
58.6 inches
Rear Head Room:
39.2 inches
Rear Leg Room:
38.6 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
58 inches
Cargo Space:
35.1 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
68.7 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
140.5 cubic feet
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.9 inches
Front Leg Room:
42.4 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
58.3 inches
Rear Head Room:
39.3 inches
Rear Leg Room:
34.4 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
58.3 inches
Cargo Space:
36.3 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
Not yet available
Overall Interior Volume:
136.1 cubic feet
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
4545 lbs
Width:
84.8 inches
Height:
69.4 inches
Length:
189.8 inches
Wheelbase:
114.8 inches
Ground Clearance:
8.7 inches
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
4148 lbs
Width:
72.8 inches
Height:
74.9 inches
Length:
178.7 inches
Wheelbase:
106.3 inches
Ground Clearance:
8.2 inches
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 8.0 inches
Wheel Type:
aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
P245/70R17
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
16.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
steel
Tire Size:
P265/70R16
Exterior Colors
Black
Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat
Red
Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat
Silver
Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat
White
Bright White Clear Coat
Blue
Not available
Gray
Not available
Yellow
Not available
Exterior Colors
Black
Super Black
Red
Cayenne Red / Lava Red
Silver
Brilliant Silver
White
Glacier White
Blue
Metallic Blue
Gray
Night Armor
Yellow
SolarFlare Yellow
Interior Colors
Black
Black / Black/Light Frost Beige
Gray
Not available
Interior Colors
Black
Not available
Gray
Gray
