A used Jeep Grand Cherokee can be many things to many people. Earlier models were strictly two-row affairs, modestly sized with V6 and V8 engines and the ability to venture far off the beaten path. Newer versions grow in size, passenger capacity, and price while retaining the same great off-road capabilities. Middle-of-the-road resale and reliability ratings keep used prices from climbing out of reach, a boon for buyers more than sellers.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Generations
Jeep Grand Cherokee (5th Generation: 2022 - Current)
Key Improvements: The current Grand Cherokee is the largest, most luxurious version to date. It’s also the first Grand Cherokee to offer three-row seating in the form of the Grand Cherokee L. The Grand Cherokee offers a standard or long wheelbase, V6, V8, or Plug-in Hybrid powertrains, and three different 4x4 systems. Compared to the previous Grand Cherokee, this one delivers a superior ride, a quieter cabin, and more luxury options. The fuel economy is better than before but still needs improvement, with V6 models getting a combined rating of around 22 mpg and the V8 closer to 17 mpg. The plug-in hybrid has a combined 23 mpg fuel economy rating but can travel up to 26 miles solely on electric power. The newest Grand Cherokee offers more standard driver-assist systems than the previous generation, including adaptive cruise control with active lane centering, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic detection with automatic braking. Other features new to this generation include a configurable digital instrument cluster, a passenger-side interactive touchscreen, a McIntosh high-end audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and rear hitch guidance assist.
Model Updates: For 2023, the Trailhawk trim is now hybrid-only, the V8 gets dropped, and premium audio options spread over more trims. Also, the 3-row Grand Cherokee L actually came out in 2021 while the fifth-generation version of the 2-row model came out in 2022.
Jeep Grand Cherokee (4th Generation: 2011 - 2021)
Key Improvements: As far as capabilities go, the fourth and third-generation Grand Cherokee are not far apart, with the nod going to the fourth generation due to its updated 4x4 systems, stiffer body, and independent rear suspension. There’s also a new, more powerful V6 and updated V8. Combined fuel economy remains at a low of 15-18 mpg, with the V6s getting the best mileage. The fourth generation offers safety systems previously unavailable, such as adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitor, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Hallmarks of this generation include the 475-horsepower SRT and 707-horsepower Trackhawk trims and more features such as ventilated front seats, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Quadra-Lift air suspension, Selec-Terrain drive mode system, and a panoramic glass moonroof.
Model Updates: The Hemi V8 returns to the SRT trim in 2012. In 2013, Jeep adds the Trailhawk trim. In 2014, the Grand Cherokee gains a diesel engine option, a new 8-speed automatic, and forward collision warning. 2018 brings the tire-smoking Trackhawk trim and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. The 2019 Grand Cherokee gains standard blind-spot monitoring, while 2020 says goodbye to the diesel engine option.
Jeep Grand Cherokee (3rd Generation: 2005 - 2010)
The third-generation Grand Cherokee improves over the previous generation, equipped with a better suspension system, an optional Hemi V8 engine, and the new Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system. Also debuting during this time are the 420-horsepower SRT trim, a 3.0-liter Mercedes-Benz-derived diesel engine, and HID headlights. Cost cutting during its development left a rather uninspiring interior full of hard plastics and primer gray color themes.
Jeep Grand Cherokee (2nd Generation: 1999 - 2004)
The second-generation Grand Cherokee builds on the success of the first, introducing the Quadra-Drive I automatic 4x4 system, a more refined and spacious interior, and more cargo space thanks to the spare tire moved from inside the cargo bay wall to underneath the floor. A V6 and V8 are the only engine choices.
Jeep Grand Cherokee (1st Generation: 1993 - 1998)
Designed and developed by AMC before the Chrysler takeover, the original Grand Cherokee introduced the idea of unit-body construction, a first for Jeep. It has more interior room than the Cherokee, not to mention a better ride. Buyers could opt for a five-speed manual and, later, a high-output V8. In many ways, the Grand Cherokee introduced the idea of an affordable midsize luxury SUV for the masses, a trend that thrives today.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Buying Tips
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