Advantages and Disadvantages of 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Overview
The 2023 Grand Cherokee is the perfect blend of machismo and elegance. Even in its most basic form, this SUV offers an array of features that make it stand out from the crowd. However, if you upgrade to one of the higher-end trims, you'll be surrounded by luxurious details and high-quality materials - making it a clear upmarket vehicle. But no matter which trim level you choose, rest assured that this Jeep still has all its trailblazing off-road capabilities!
The Grand Cherokee offers three different powertrains, ranging from V-6 to V-8 engines and a plug-in hybrid system called 4xe. Driving this two row SUV is as pleasurable on the streets of suburbia as it is off roading; its spacious interior provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo. However, if your family requires more than just 2 kids then you may want to look into the Grand Cherokee L with its 3 rows-- (reviewed separately).
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Jeep's latest Grand Cherokee model is equipped with two powertrain options - a 293-horsepower, 3.6L V6 and a 357 horsepower 5.7 Hemi V8 engine, as well as the patented 4xe plug-in hybrid system comprised of an efficient 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder motor and 370 lb.-ft of torque from its electric traction motor . The battery pack providing juice to this powerful combination reaches 14kWh in capacity! As for drivetrains? You can take your pick between traditional rear wheel or all wheel drive available on both the V8 and 4xe configurations.
With several different all-wheel-drive systems available, and an electronically locking limited-slip differential, the Grand Cherokee offers a Trailhawk model with bolstered off-road equipment. Offering up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance due to its adjustable air suspension, as well as a disconnecting sway bar for more articulation in difficult terrain – it's easy to see why we were so impressed on our initial test drive! Both V6 and V8 engines offered plenty of power that had us feeling confident during our time behind the wheel.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Fuel economy estimates for the V-6–powered Grand Cherokee are typical of the mid-size-SUV segment at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway when paired with rear-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive drops each of those estimates by 1 mpg; the V-8 model is rated for 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. The plug-in-hybrid 4xe delivers better fuel economy and is rated for 23 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. It comes with a 14.0-kWh battery pack and a 134-hp electric motor that allows the Grand Cherokee to cruise for up to 26 miles per charge. Jeep boasts that the Grand Cherokee with the 4xe powertrain completed the famed Rubicon Trail entirely in its EV driving mode. For more information about the Grand Cherokee's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Floating just above the surface of the Grand Cherokee's dashboard is either an 8.4- or 10.1-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. In-dash navigation with real-time traffic and weather updates is optional, and higher-end models can be had with a digital gauge cluster, a 10.0-inch head-up display, and another 10.3-inch display embedded into the dashboard for use by the front-seat passenger. While the Laredo and Limited models ship with a standard six-speaker stereo, buyers can upgrade to either a nine-speaker Alpine audio setup or a high-end 19-speaker McIntosh arrangement.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Driver-assistance features such as pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and semi-autonomous driving modes are becoming increasingly important to shoppers, and Jeep is delivering a more comprehensive suite of standard safety tech to satisfy that demand. For more information about the Grand Cherokee's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
