Zj has a lot of things to offer and many things it can do. This is what makes ZJ so much different from Xj. It is also known by the name “Grand Cherokee” which makes it more popular than the XJ.
People prefer ZJ because it provides more options and choices than xj. but how does it really compare? In this article, we are going to compare the two of the most popular jeep models and see which one is a better car between Jeep Zj and xj. Let’s get to it.
Zj vs Xj Comparison
Engine:
The Jeep ZJ comes with a 5.2-liter V8 engine producing 208 horsepower and 295-pound feet of torque @ 3000 rpm whereas the xj comes with a 4.0-liter inline-six producing 190 horsepower and 235-pound feet of torque @ 4000 rpm. Both engines are mated with a 6-speed manual transmission. Both of the engines have computer-controlled fuel injection, variable valve timing, a catalytic converter, and an intercooler.
Comfort:
Zj is more comfortable than Xj due to the suspension and body setup. The zj has 7.7 inches of ground clearance as compared to xj which has 8.1 inches of ground clearance. Both of them have independent suspension setups.
The zj is much more quieter on highways, with less wind noise, and fewer vibrations, you won’t feel like riding a Jeep, whereas the xj is a little noisier. The zj has a longer wheelbase which increases the comfort level.
Storage:
Since the Jeep Zj is wider than the xj, it offers more space for storage. You can fit a lot more stuff in your car with much ease. On the Xj, the storage is restricted and you have to be smart in using it.
Weight:
The Jeep Cherokee Xj is lighter than the Jeep Grand Cherokee Zj. The Xj weights 3,357 lb. as compared to 3,574 lb. for the Zj. It is lighter due to the fact that it has an independent suspension setup, This helps improves fuel economy by reducing the weight.
Towing:
The zj has the ability to tow more, due to its increased weight and gives a much better ground clearance. The ZJ has a 7200 lb. towing capacity as compared to 5500 lb. for the xj.
The Zj has a higher towing capacity because it has wider axles, stronger drive shafts, engine capacity and length, and a wider rear axle. The Zj has a higher payload capacity, which can haul more than the XJ.
Fuel Economy:
The xj is much better in terms of fuel economy as compared to the zj. From an average of 19 mpg for the xj to 16 mpg for the zj, the xj is much better for fuel economy.
Interior design:
Jeep Zj has a better and much nicer interior than the xj. There is a big difference between the ZJ and XJ interiors, the XJ has hard plastic covered in leather while ZJ has a soft and smooth leather sofa with integrated headrests. The interior of the ZJ has a lot more elegant features while xj feels like some cheap jeep.
Aftermarket Parts:
Xj has more aftermarket parts than the ZJ. You can get parts for Xj from different brands easily but ZJ is more difficult to mod. Not only Xj has more aftermarket parts but they are also way cheaper and easily accessible when compared to the zj aftermarket parts. There are a lot of things you can do to improve the XJ.
Practicality:
The Zj has more interior space, both in leg and headroom, as well as cargo space. You can fit a lot more things in the ZJ whereas the xj has a smaller interior. not to say that Xj interior space is bad but when compared to the ZJ, it is smaller, which does not allow much room for storage.
Another thing that’s nice about the Zj is the fact that seats can fold with a split of 60/40 this gives you more interior space to stuff with ease. On the other hand, the xj seats cannot fold so you have less space in the Zj as compared to Xj.
Reliability:
XJ has better reliability than ZJ. Xj is more reliable and durable than Zj. This is evident from the fact that XJ has a longer track record than Zj, and lesser recalls between the two vehicles.
Sound system:
The sound system in the Zj is much better than xj. The zj has a premium sound system with 6 speakers and a subwoofer while xj has only 4 speakers. This makes the ZJ sound much better and more premium. Now, this isn’t a big deal but still, when you are in love with your car and want it to sound best, then you need to get ZJ.
Summary
This was one of the toughest calls however, overall, ZJ is better than xj. The reason being, ZJ is wider, taller, and has more interior space. The truck has a better ground clearance and offers more storage space. It has more safety features and better fuel economy as well. With that said Xj is still a great vehicle that has its own pros that are unmatched by the Zj with either one of these vehicles, you can never go wrong.
