The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Vs. the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

Midsize SUVs are incredibly versatile, providing a comfortable and convenient way to transport occupants and cargo over long distances. And now, some of the latest models are taking their versatility a step further with the addition of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system. With a PHEV, drivers can enjoy the best of both worlds, seamlessly switching between all-electric and gasoline power as needed.

Two of the newest PHEV offerings in this category are the Mazda CX-90 and the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. While the Mazda is a brand-new model, the Jeep is a well-established name in the world of SUVs, and both offer exciting options for drivers seeking a more sustainable and efficient driving experience. Let’s take a closer look at how these two vehicles compare.

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

The Mazda CX-90 is Mazda’s flagship SUV and a brand-new addition to the automaker’s lineup. It offers drivers a choice of two distinct powertrains, including a turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine and a PHEV system that combines a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor. The PHEV system is capable of producing a robust 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, which is routed through an 8-speed automatic transmission. With a range of up to 26 miles on electric power alone, the CX-90 PHEV is a great option for those who want to minimize their environmental impact.

All Mazda SUVs come standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), and the CX-90 PHEV is no exception. With its advanced PHEV system and standard AWD, the CX-90 is sure to provide drivers with a confident and capable driving experience. Prices for the CX-90 PHEV start at $47,445, making it a competitive option in the midsize SUV segment.

One of the standout features of the Mazda CX-90 PHEV is its three-row seating configuration, which offers room for seven or eight passengers depending on the chosen configuration. In contrast, the Grand Cherokee 4xe can only be had with two rows of seating, meaning it can’t match the CX-90 in terms of passenger capacity. While the Grand Cherokee does offer a three-row model in the form of the Grand Cherokee L, it doesn’t come with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Another advantage of the Mazda CX-90 PHEV is its lower price point. Starting at over $12,000 less than the Grand Cherokee 4xe, the CX-90 offers a more affordable option in the midsize SUV segment. Even the top-line CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus model is several thousand dollars less expensive than the starting price of the Grand Cherokee 4xe.

Finally, Mazda’s reputation for handling is well-known among driving enthusiasts. Whether you’re driving a sports car like the Miata or an SUV like the CX-90, Mazda vehicles are known for their athletic feel and nimble handling. This makes the CX-90 PHEV an excellent choice for drivers who want a midsize SUV that’s both fun to drive and efficient.

2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is the most efficient and advanced version of the Grand Cherokee, which has recently undergone a complete redesign. Like the Mazda CX-90 PHEV, the Grand Cherokee 4xe features a hybrid powertrain that combines a 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor. However, the Jeep’s engine is turbocharged, and the PHEV system produces a combined 375 horsepower and an impressive 470 pound-feet of torque. With four-wheel drive as standard and an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Grand Cherokee 4xe is a capable and powerful SUV.

The Grand Cherokee 4xe also offers an electric-only driving range of up to 25 miles, making it a great option for drivers who want to minimize their environmental impact. Prices for the Grand Cherokee 4xe start at $59,865, which is significantly higher than the starting price of the Mazda CX-90 PHEV. However, the Grand Cherokee 4xe may be worth the extra investment for drivers who want a powerful, capable, and efficient SUV.

…and the Winner is?

In summary, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV offers several advantages over the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. With its three rows of seating and room for up to eight passengers, the CX-90 is a great option for families or those who need to transport larger groups of people. The CX-90 also boasts a polished on-road driving experience and a striking design that sets it apart from other midsize SUVs.

Perhaps most notably, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV is significantly less expensive than the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, making it a more accessible option for many buyers. While the Grand Cherokee 4xe does offer a more powerful engine and slightly longer electric-only driving range, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV is a more well-rounded choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient SUV.

Photo Source: Mazda USA