Volkswagen Crafter vs Jeep Grand Cherokee L
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Volkswagen Crafter
From $70,990
People Mover
Diesel I4 Bi-Turbo TDI
130kW
—
ANCAP: no data
—
Jeep Grand Cherokee L
From $69,450
SUV
Petrol V6 Pentastar w/ ESS
210kW
10.6 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
487L
Price Breakdown
The Volkswagen Crafter starts from $70,990 before on-road costs, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee L opens at $69,450. That makes the Jeep Grand Cherokee L the more affordable entry point by $1,540.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $78,089 and $76,395 respectively.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Volkswagen Crafter features a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee L gets a 10.1-inch display and 10.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Volkswagen Crafter stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated front seats and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Volkswagen Crafter uses a Diesel I4 Bi-Turbo TDI producing 130kW and 410Nm of torque, sent through a 8-speed automatic w/ torque converter to a FWD layout.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L responds with a Petrol V6 Pentastar w/ ESS making 210kW and 344Nm, paired to a 8-speed automatic w/ paddle shifters driving the rear wheels.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L has the clear power advantage at 210kW vs 130kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Volkswagen Crafter measures 5,986mm long on a 3,640mm wheelbase, 782mm longer than the Jeep Grand Cherokee L at 5,204mm (3,091mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Volkswagen Crafter generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L leads with a 2,813kg braked capacity vs 2,500kg. That 313kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
13.6m diameter
Large
Based on 13.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years (Volkswagen Crafter) vs 5 years / 100,000km (Jeep Grand Cherokee L). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Volkswagen Crafter if: You or prefer Volkswagen's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Jeep Grand Cherokee L if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Jeep's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L takes 3 of 3 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Volkswagen Crafter and Jeep Grand Cherokee L?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the cheapest at $69,450 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Volkswagen Crafter by $1,540.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L uses the least fuel at 10.6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Jeep Grand Cherokee L all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,813kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L makes the most power at 210kW.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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