2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee review
Jeep Grand Cherokee highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Smart interior with plenty of comfort and tech
- Engine choices range from an efficient turbodiesel V6 to mighty V8s
Cons
- The suspension rides a bit firm on rougher roads
- Plentiful passenger space but a not particularly large trunk
Mileage (EPA estimate)
13 city, 19 highway, 16 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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2018 Grand Cherokee adds blistering 707-hp Trackhawk to the mix
Few SUVs offer the expansive abilities of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee. We just got our heads around the abundant performance from the SRT model, with its 475-hp V8, and Jeep upped the ante for 2018 with a new SRT Trackhawk model. It shoehorns a 6.2-liter Hellcat HEMI® V8 under the Grand Cherokee's hood, with an outrageous 707 hp on tap. That's not likely to be on everyone's list for a midsize SUV, but it's an incredible model regardless. For more modest power, there are three non-SRT-badged engines that make a bit more sense: a base 3.6-liter V6 with 295 hp, a 3.0-liter 240-hp turbodiesel, and a 360-hp 5.7-liter V8. The turbodiesel gets the highest EPA estimates and performs well for towing. Rear-wheel drive is standard, though several four-wheel-drive options are offered along with other off-road-specific equipment that lets the Grand Cherokee perform its best off the beaten path.
All use a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, and even the base Laredo trim comes with a decent level of standard equipment. Even so, we'd suggest the Limited as a sensible starting point. Its equipment mix is comprehensive, though if your budget allows, check out the Overland and Summit trims above it. And if you want an off-road model without having to pick among options, the Trailhawk will fit the bill. Comfort levels are high for five people, but the trunk isn't as big as those of some rivals. To drive they're all capable, if unremarkable, except those SRT models, which are ridiculously quick, and surprisingly inexpensive compared with similar-power rivals. A talented all-rounder, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is an attractive choice if you're looking for a capable midsize SUV.
All Jeep Grand Cherokee years
What is new for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
- The Grand Cherokee is available in a variety of new trims, including the High Altitude, Sterling Edition, and Upland.
- The 75TH Anniversary Edition trim has been discontinued for 2018.
- Grand Cherokee trims have been upgraded with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Blu-ray Video System as standard equipment this year.
- The Summit trim now comes with Adjustable Suspension as standard equipment.
- The Limited trim now comes with Automated Parking and 20 Inch Plus Wheels as standard equipment.
- The Overland trim now comes with Adjustable Suspension and Automated Parking as standard equipment.
- The Trailhawk trim now comes with Automated Parking, Leather Seats, and Navigation System as standard equipment.
- The SRT trim now comes with Adjustable Suspension as standard equipment.
- The Altitude trim now comes with 20 Inch Plus Wheels, Satellite Radio Ready, and Navigation System as standard equipment.
- The Laredo E trim now comes with Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment.
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee trims
Laredo
295-hp 3.6L V6; rear-wheel drive (four-wheel drive is available); Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; cloth seats; seven-inch touchscreen; 2 USB ports.
Limited
Adds heated front seats, rear seats, and steering wheel; power liftgate; two additional USB ports.
Trailhawk
Standard four-wheel drive; leather interior; 8.4-inch touchscreen; trailer hitch with rear leveling; heated and ventilated front seats.
Overland
Adds sunroof; 20-inch wheels.
Summit
Adds high-performance audio system.
SRT
Standard 6.4L V8 engine and four-wheel drive; sports-tuned suspension; launch control; performance braking.
Trackhawk
Standard supercharged 6.2-L V8 and four-wheel drive; performance tuning; Nappa leather interior; navigation.
Jeep Grand Cherokee photos
5 reasons to buy the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
1. Unmatched off-roading
One of the main reasons you might be looking at a Jeep is its off-roading capabilities. The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is available on all trims and standard on the Trailhawk, SRT, and Trackhawk trims. The 2018 Grand Cherokee offers multiple four-wheel drive systems: Quadra-Trac I (like an AWD system), Quadra-Trac II (best for more torque at low speeds), and Quadra-Drive (which offers the most robust off-road capabilities). Available features like air suspension and hill descent control give you the confidence that you need to go further off the beaten path.
2. Powerful engines
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has plenty of powerful engine options that will make sure you never fall behind. The 2018 Grand Cherokee comes standard with a 295-hp 3.6L V6 engine. There are four other engine options available, including one V6 diesel and three V8 options. With five engines to choose from, you'll have no problem finding one that meets your needs.
3. Tow your toys
If you're into boating, camping, or all-terrain vehicles, you'll love how the Jeep Grand Cherokee makes it easy to bring your toys along for the ride. The 2018 Grand Cherokee with the base 3.6L V6 engine can tow up to an estimated 6,200 pounds when properly equipped.
4. Top-notch tech
You might find yourself focusing on the Grand Cherokee's capabilities, but it's worth considering its tech features as well. The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes standard with a seven-inch high-resolution touch screen. The vehicle has standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity, making it easy to stay connected on the road. Two USB ports come standard, although all but the base trim have four USB ports.
5. Available high-end touches
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers most of the high-end touches that you can dream up. Want genuine Nappa leather? Opt for the leather package. Want premium sound? Choose the Harman Kardon® sound system, available on the Overland, SRT, and Trackhawk trims. Have a need for speed? Go zero to 60 in 3.5 with the sports-car-inspired Trackhawk trim.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that was introduced in 2014. It has seating for five, and 24.6 cu-ft of cargo space on the 2018 model. It comes standard with a 184-hp 2.4L four-cylinder engine, with an optional 271-hp 3.2L V6. The Cherokee comes standard with rear-wheel drive but has Jeep's flagship off-road capabilities when it's equipped with optional four-wheel drive.
Here's what you'll find on the Jeep Cherokee in model years 2014–2018:
Five-inch touchscreen
Standard remote-keyless entry
Available off-road features include locking rear differential, off-road suspension, and skid plates.
The Dodge Durango is a great option if you need seven seats. In model years 2014–2016 it can fit a standard seven seats; on model years 2017 and later it comes standard with five seats but offers the option for seven. The Durango comes standard with rear-wheel drive but offers available all-wheel drive. Its only engine option is a 290-hp 3.6L V6. Here's what you'll find on the 2014–2019 Dodge Durango.
Standard remote keyless entry
Available third-row seating (optional on 2017 and later)
Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (2018 and later)
The Ford Edge is a midsize SUV that was redesigned in 2015. The Edge offers seating for five and has 32.9 cu-ft of cargo space on model years 2015–2018. Its only engine is a 245-hp 2L four-cylinder. The Edge comes standard with front-wheel drive but offers all-wheel drive as an option in all trim levels. Here's what you'll find on the 2015–2018 Ford Edge:
Standard push-button start
Standard MyKey®, which allows you to set speed and volume limits
Available driver-assistance features including blind-spot monitoring and emergency braking
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.3 out of 5
33 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 21 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 6 |
| 3 Stars | 3 |
| 2 Stars | 1 |
| 1 Star | 2 |
RepairPal gave the Jeep Grand Cherokee an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Jeep Grand Cherokee 32nd out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Jeep Grand CherokeeJeep Grand Cherokee features and specs
Sterling Edition 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Automated Parking
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Remote Start
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Sunroof(s)
- Traction Control
- Turbo Diesel Engine
- A/C Seat(s)
- Adjustable Suspension
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automated Parking
- Automatic Transmission
- CD Audio
- Full Roof Rack
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Parking Sensors
- Rear Entertainment System
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Running Boards
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
3.0L
Horsepower
240
Torque (ft-lbs)
420
Engine type
Turbo Diesel
Fuel capacity
24.6
Wheelbase
114.8"
Overall length
189.8"
Width
76.5"
Height
69.3"
Leg room
F 40.3"/R 38.6"
Head room
F 39.9"/R 39.2"
Front tires
P265/50TR20
Rear tires
P265/50TR20
Seating capacity
5
Max towing capacity
350/3500 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee FAQ
Yes, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes standard with LED headlights.
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee does not come from the manufacturer with remote start.
No, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee does not have a third row, and only seats five people.
More about the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Exterior colors:
Billet Silver
Bright White
Diamond Black
Granite Crystal
Ivory Pearl Tri-Coat
Redline (Trailhawk, SRT, and Trackhawk only)
Rhino
True Blue
Velvet Red
Walnut Brown
Interior colors:
Black
Black/Light Frost Beige
Black/Ruby Red (Trailhawk and Trackhawk)
Brown
Brown/Light Gray (Overland only)
Dark Sienna Brown/Black
Indigo Blue/Brown (Overland only)
Indigo/Ski Gray
Interior details
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes standard with cloth seats. Leather, suede, and Nappa leather seating is available, and you can find some form of leather seating available on all trims except the Laredo and Limited. The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers a premium metal package that gives the SUV real metal accents on the SRT and Trackhawk trims. The 2018 Grand Cherokee offers plenty of legroom, with more than 40 inches in the front and 38 inches in the rear. However, its cargo hold is on the small side for an SUV at only 36.3 cu-ft.
Child seat details
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with two sets of LATCH anchors, on the rear outboard seats. All three rear seats have car seat tethers, and some parents have had luck fitting three car seats in the Grand Cherokee, although this will depend on the seats and how they are installed.
Performance
The Jeep Grand Cherokee's performance really shines when you're off-roading. The Grand Cherokee offers a few different optional four-wheel drive systems, as well as an optional traction management system that helps the vehicle perform on snow, sand, mud, rock, or road. If you're focused on speed, choose the Trackhawk trim and its standard supercharged V8. With that engine, you'll fly from zero to 60 in just 3.5 seconds and reach speeds of more than 200 mph, easily competing with any sports car.
Emissions
The four-wheel drive 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions with the standard 3.6L V6 engine are 427 grams per mile, according to EPA estimates.
With the available turbodiesel V6, the four-wheel drive 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 432 grams per mile, according to EPA estimates.
With the available 5.7L V8, the four-wheel drive 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 533 grams per mile, according to EPA estimates.
With the available 6.4L V8, the four-wheel drive 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 592 grams per mile, according to EPA estimates.
With the available 6.2L supercharged V8, the four-wheel drive 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 664 grams per mile, according to EPA estimates.
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