At a Glance
Power
210hp @ 5500
187hp @ 6100
Torque
230lb-ft
178lb-ft @ 4000
Towing
3500lbs
1653lbs
Engine
1.6 L/98cc
2.5 L/152cc
Choosing between the Jeep Cherokee and the KIA Sportage is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Jeep Cherokee delivers 210hp @ 5500 while the KIA Sportage produces 187hp @ 6100. Pricing starts at $35,000 for the Cherokee and $30,490 for the Sportage. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
210hp @ 5500
187hp @ 6100
Torque (lb-ft)
230lb-ft
178lb-ft @ 4000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
1.6 L/98cc
2.5 L/152cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Hybrid
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
8
Drive Wheels
Four Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
39mpg
23 (2025)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
35mpg
26 (2025)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
13.7gal
14.3gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
188.1in
183.5in
Width (in)
74.7in
73.4in
Height (in)
67.5in
66.1in
Wheelbase (in)
113in
108.5in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4295lbs
—
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
1653lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
—
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
—
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
—
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Sportage
Practicality
Cherokee
Pros & Cons
Jeep Cherokee
Higher towing capacity (3500lbs)
Higher starting price
KIA Sportage
Lower starting price ($30,490)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Cherokee or Sportage?
The Cherokee produces 210hp @ 5500 and 230lb-ft of torque while the Sportage delivers 187hp @ 6100 and 178lb-ft @ 4000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Cherokee and Sportage?
The Cherokee starts from $35,000 and the Sportage from $30,490. The Sportage is cheaper by $4,510 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Cherokee or Sportage?
The Cherokee has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Sportage can tow 1653lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Cherokee or the Sportage?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.