2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Expert Review
Reviewed by Willis Kuelthau
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee rolls on with minimal changes. The big news is the omission of the Trailhawk trim, which is now restricted to the plug-in-hybrid 4xe. The gas-powered Grand Cherokee is as good as ever, combining family-friendly comfort with off-road prowess.
What's New
- Trailhawk version now limited to Grand Cherokee 4xe
- Limited and Overland trims gain 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Standalone options for premium sound systems
What We Think
The 2023 Grand Cherokee gets the basics right while staying true to Jeep's identity. The five-passenger version of Jeep's redesigned midsize SUV landed last year, and it impressed us right away.
Both powertrains provide smooth acceleration. The Grand Cherokee is a few hundred pounds lighter than the Grand Cherokee L, which makes it slightly quicker and more agile. We called this generation "the best on-road Grand Cherokee to date," with some credit likely due to the Alfa Romeo engineers that had a hand in creating the new architecture.
Don't worry, Jeep fans: the Grand Cherokee is still a talented off-roader. Access to the Trailhawk version is limited this year, but even base models will conquer more terrain than most SUVs. Inside the cabin, fit and finish are impressive. Cockpit design is cohesive, and tech features are competitive for the class.
So what's not to like? Interior space isn't exceptional, but that's easy to forgive given the existence of the Cherokee L. More concerning is the price, which sits well above most of the Grand Cherokee's competition. All-wheel drive isn't standard, either, which further dents the value proposition.
We doubt it will slow down buyers. The Grand Cherokee still offers a unique combination of comfort and all-terrain capability.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2023 Grand Cherokee is available with two engines, both of which are hitched to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The base 3.6-liter V-6 makes 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, which is a healthy power output for the class. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and a basic all-wheel-drive system is optional. Fuel economy starts at 19/26 mpg city/hwy.
Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve trims have the option of upgrading to a 5.7-liter V-8 cranking out 357 hp and 390 lb-ft. The V-8 is only available with one of Jeep's formidable 4WD systems, and fuel economy sinks to 14/22 mpg. The V-8 is the best choice for towing with a maximum capacity of 7,200 pounds.
Choosing a Grand Cherokee
The Grand Cherokee family has added a new member, leaving buyers with many decisions to be made. The first choice is body style: The longer Grand Cherokee L comes with a third row and extra space, but the shorter five-seat body is more agile and better for off-roading.
Then comes the powertrain. We found the V-6 sufficient for almost all uses. If off-road performance is a priority, look for Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II 4WD systems. Both are designed for low-traction conditions.
The title of "Ultimate Off-Road Grand Cherokee" now belongs to the plug-in 4xe. Even if you don't plan to go off-road, the 4xe improves on the Grand Cherokee's driving manners and fuel economy.
Safety Ratings and Features
The 2023 Grand Cherokee comes with a full suite of standard safety tech. Included are automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, lane keeping assist, and rear parking sensors.
Upper trims add a parking assistant, a driver attention monitor, a surround-view camera, an infrared camera view for night vision, and a semi-autonomous driving system. Models with an advanced 4WD system also get a trail camera for spotting obstacles.
This generation of Grand Cherokee has not yet been tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Cabin space in the 2023 Grand Cherokee is average for the class. A Subaru Outback offers more total cargo capacity as well as more legroom in both rows.
Cargo space (behind first/second rows):
- 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee: 70.8/37.7 cubic feet
- 2022 Subaru Outback: 75.7/32.5 cubic feet
Legroom (first/second rows):
- 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee: 41.3/38.2 inches
- 2022 Subaru Outback: 42.8/39.5 inches
Technology
The Grand Cherokee's infotainment system comes in two sizes. Laredo and Altitude trims use an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while the rest of the lineup gets a 10.1-inch display and are equipped with navigation. All models come with a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, USB ports in both rows, and wireless smartphone compatibility.
Upper trims add a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, and increasingly elaborate sound systems.
Trim Levels
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in six trims: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve. Prices start just past $40,000, but a loaded Summit Reserve will set you back nearly $70,000.
The Overland trim is a good middle ground. It's the first trim available with Jeep's Quadra-Trac II 4x4 system, which makes it a rugged off-roader. It also comes with the larger infotainment system, Nappa leather seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
If that's not in the budget, look to the Altitude trim. With leather-trimmed seats and a few luxury touches, it's comfortable enough for most buyers.
