There is a high chance that you knew someone who owned a Jeep held by duct tape and zip ties. If not, it’s probably you!
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been roaming around the roads for decades and was in desperate need of an upgrade.
It has been less than a year since the new Jeep Grand Cherokee came out, and it is already making a big noise and stirring up the pot of the SUV segment. This beautiful masterpiece took crowned Jeep, among many other mainstream brands, a king on top of the quarterly sales.
The Off-road mammoth from Stellantis took a bold move to put the new Grand Cherokee on the upside of the market. Despite being more expensive than ever, people fell in love with it and grabbed one from every dealership.
So, what makes this model so special? What did people love about it?
In terms of SUVs, the Grand Cherokee was never my go-to ride. Still, it is a capable vehicle that can go anywhere and do anything. It is a simple, charming SUV.
What really got me hooked are the SRT and the Trackhawk performance models. Sadly, they are missing from the 2022 lineup with no signs of them returning. Welcome to our 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee guide.
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What’s New for 2022?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee was fully redesigned for 2022 with a new exterior look and modernized interior. It marks the launch of the Grand Cherokee’s fifth generation. At last, Jeep said goodbye to the old Mercedes platform and introduced a new architecture that handles various wheelbases and electrification.
The new platform is also used in the bigger Jeep Grand Cherokee L model.
The 2022 model is wider, longer, and more aerodynamic than last year. It still retains the iconic Jeep look, but it’s more futuristic this time. The new design is superb because it steps away from the massive grille trend that you see on many new vehicles.
Jeep managed to keep the legendary seven-slot grille perfectly placed in the middle of a more pronounced chin. The slim headlights and taillights are premium LEDs with integrated LED daytime running lights. They are a seamless fit to finish with the boxy body style.
The wider track allows 21-inch wheels to fit in nicely and improve handling. Unfortunately, the lower trims get 17 and 18-inch wheels while the larger 20 and 21s are available for the higher models.
In addition, the roofline and beltline are lower for a sporty look and more glass to improve visibility and lighten up the cabin. Alongside the new looks and technology, a hybrid powertrain will soon join the lineup.
Although, Jeep carried over the engines from the previous model to the new one, with the SRT and Trackhawk performance trims missing.
The exterior gets a wide range of colors with 396 $ price tag, including:
- Diamond Black
- Silver Zynith
- Velvet Red
- Bright White
- Midnight Sky
- Hydro Blue
Bright White is the only free option you can get. The top trims like the Summit and Overland come with a blacked-out roof and pillars.
Blacktop with White bottom looks sublime!
Dimensions
The Grand Cherokee is a chunky boy. The new 2022 model is 193.5 inches long, 77.5 inches wide, and 70.8 inches high. This body sits on a 116.7 wheelbase, two inches longer than the previous generation.
SUVs are known for being heavyweight vehicles, and the Grand Cherokee got a lot of them. The Laredo trim is the lightest model you can get, and it weighs about 4,238 pounds. Top-of-the-line Summit trim is the heaviest, with a curb weight of 5,040 pounds.
To reach such a figure, the latter must have the optional big V-8, four-wheel-drive, and every additional feature on the list.
The 4xe hybrid model is expected to bypass the 5,300 pounds mark due to the electric motors and the battery pack.
Rear-wheel-drive models have 8.4 inches of ground clearance with the standard suspension. You can add two more inches with the optional air suspension and set off on a small off-road adventure.
Nonetheless, the off-road-focused Trailhawk has 11.3 inches of ground clearance for optimal performance on rough terrains. The base Grand Cherokee enjoys a 20.5 approach angle, 26.6 departure angle, and 19.1 breakover angles. Not the best in the business, but enough to take you far away off-road.
The breakover angle drops to 16.3 with the 4xe model because it is lower. On the high end of the scale, the Trailhawk gives all the right numbers. After all, it is made for off-roading. It has a 37.5-degree approach angle, 30.2-degree departure angle, and 24.4-degree breakover angle.
Inside of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The new model grew two inches in wheelbase and almost four inches overall. This means that inside you have plenty of space for a family of five and their cargo as well. The overall volume of the cabin is 144.6 cubic feet; 37.7 of it is dedicated to the cargo behind the second-row seats.
If you fold the rear seats down, you will have 70.8 cubic feet of space to haul whatever you want. If you like the new Jeep as it is but bigger, then the Grand Cherokee L model is your best bet.
One downside is the tall ride height. That means getting inside the vehicle might require some effort.
Storage for small stuff is adequate with cupholders that fit most drinks and large-size bottles. In addition, you get extra space for storage in the center console and door bins front and back. People who are over six feet tall can easily fit inside the cabin and move around freely.
Moreover, the seats feature anchor points for child seats. They are covered with leather flaps for easy access. The most touched surfaces like the armrests, center console, and dashboard are wrapped with soft materials. The top models get a full leather interior with gloss and wood accents.
It is clear that Jeep is aiming to compete against the German big boys with the latest model. The layout is simple, practical, and, most importantly, elegant. It works well with the leather interior and the wood trims.
For 2022, all the trims get a rotary dial to select the gears. But, the high-end models with air suspension and four-wheel-drive have additional switches to choose between driving modes and engage 4WD low.
Most of the dials and controls are placed within reach and are easy to use. Yet, after a while, some buttons are placed at a weird angle, and others are hidden behind other controls. Some dials are touch-sensitive with a black piano background.
That makes the interior seem fancier and more futuristic. Still, the button label can be hard to see, especially under sunlight.
What I am not so keen on is the plastic you get in the lower parts of the cabin on the low-end trims. Moreover, the gloss trims can reflect direct sunlight that can possibly blind the driver. Not to mention, it gets dirty too quickly.
Nothing is more annoying than seeing those smooth glossy parts filled with fingerprints!
The seats are one of the highlights of the Grand Cherokee. The front seats are roomy and well-cushioned. Perfect for long journeys! You can get them with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. The same is offered for the back outboard seats. Furthermore, the optional air suspension makes the ride feel soft.
A Look Under the Hood!
The heart of the Grand Cherokee of the previous generation continues to live on inside the 2022 model. The available power plants include a 3.6-liter V-6 with 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Enough to get you from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than eight seconds.
The other powerhouse is a 5.7-liter V-8 that produces 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The latter launches the Jeep from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.8 seconds. These are decent figures for a family SUV.
I am a V-8 fanboy, but I recommend you go for the hybrid if you want more power. The 4xe model gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-banger with twin electric motors. It makes 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque.
Plus, it is more efficient than the V-8. The hybrid system allows you to run on electric power only for 25-30 miles. Make sure to charge the batteries more often to get the most out of it. You will use less petrol and visit the gas station less frequently.
Trust me! Your wallet will thank you for that.
Both engines are mated to the same eight-speed automatic transmission. The electric motor is merged into the gearbox on the hybrid models to keep the four-wheel-drive active even if the batteries die.
As a result, the towing capacity of the hybrid maxes out at 6,000 pounds. The number increases to 6,200 pounds with the V-6 engine. The max towing capacity you get in a Grand Cherokee is 7,200 pounds, and it comes from the big V-8.
In my opinion, Jeep needs to bring back the SRT and Trackhawk performance models.
Anyways, back on track and to the most critical question many interested buyers are asking: how good is the gas mileage?
Regardless of the drivetrain, you opt for, the V-6 averages about 19 miles per gallon in the city, 26 on the highway, and 22 combined. It’s not the best in the market, but it is decent for a heavy family hauler.
The V-8 is thirsty for fuel and may cost you in the long run. It gets about 14 miles per gallon in the city, 22 on the highway, and 17 combined.
The hybrid is expected to get better mileage than the V-6 if charged regularly.
Three Four-wheel-drive Configurations?
Jeep offers the new Grand Cherokee models with three different four-wheel-drive systems, including Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Track II, and Quadra-Drive II. Quadra-Trac I is primarily a mainstream all-wheel drive that distributes torque between the front and rear axles. It comes in with entry-level trims.
Quadra-Trac II is more conventional. It uses a two-speed transfer case and a low mode, especially for rock crawling. You find such a system in the more off-road-oriented Trailhawk. The Quadra-Drive II gets an extra electronic limited-slip differential for the top trims.
All models, including the L, have coil springs all around, long-arm short-arm front suspension, and independent rear suspension. And, of course, you have optional air suspension.
So, how does the Grand Cherokee Handle?
The new 2022 Grand Cherokee was built with luxury in mind, and it was priced accordingly. It may not ride as well as the high-end Mercedes, but it achieved its purpose. The new model is about 200 pounds lighter than the previous generation and features a low center of gravity.
As a result, the handling characteristics and ride quality improved significantly. The Grand Cherokee suspension becomes firm in its sportiest settings and drops low for greater handling in the corners. Surprisingly, it feels like a sedan.
However, it does sacrifice a bit of comfort.
The interior is calm with barely noticeable road noises. In addition, the seats are comfortable with power adjustments which make long journeys easy for the passengers.
The V-6 engine is responsive, smooth, and works well with the eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s not the most powerful, but it gets you up to speed without drama. If you are looking for more brute force, the big V-8 is the way.
It packs enough power to overtake other road users with ease. But with big V-8s comes a lot of gas station visits.
Jeep focused on luxury with this one, but it retained its infamous off-road capabilities. After all, it’s a Jeep. The lineup features a Trailhawk trim loaded with off-roading stuff. It is fitted with three different four-wheel-drive systems, an optional airlift suspension, and an electronic limited-slip differential.
The sway bar disconnects, and the suspension is flexible and copes brilliantly with rough terrains. Moreover, 4WD low with a 47.4:1 ratio makes rock crawling easier and more manageable. And thanks to the tall ride height, the Grand Cherokee can withstand 24 inches deep of water.
Finally, Safety is no Longer an Option!
The 2022 Grand Cherokee is over-flooded with safety features and driver aid systems. First, the cabin comes with seven airbags, including knee airbags for the driver’s side. You also get hill start assist, rearview camera, stability and traction control, and tire pressure monitor.
Other driver aid features include adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection. Furthermore, you get lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitor, auto-parking assist, and traffic signs recognition.
The Cherokee also gets an engine immobilizer, anti-theft alarm, and four-wheel ABS.
Warranties?
Jeep offers the Grand Cherokee with basic warranties, including Drivetrain for 5 years/ 60,000 miles and Rust for 5 years/ unlimited miles.
Trim Levels and Packages
The 2022 Grand Cherokee comes in seven different trim levels. Each level has its features and certain packages. For further details, check the table below.
| Trim Level | Features | Packages |
LaredoThe entry-level trim but can compete with the high-end trim levels when fully loaded. This trim does not come with the hybrid powertrain or the beefy V-8. The price starts from 39,000$. |
Keyless entry
Start/stop button LED headlights Roof rails and heated mirrors Dual-zone climate control Six USB ports and six speakers audio system 17-inch wheels and digital drivers display 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
Lux Tech Group and it adds:
Automatic wipers and power liftgate Remote start Wireless charging pad Heated front seats and steering wheel |
LimitedThis trim tends to fall a bit close to the middle of the lineup. It is available with the hybrid powertrain but no optional V-8. The price is about 45,000$. |
It adds to the Laredo features:
LED foglamps 18-inch wheels Leather interior Power adjusted front seats Heated rear seats |
Lux Tech Group that adds:
Power adjusted steering wheel Digital rearview mirror Surround-view camera Parking sensors Ventilated seats Entertainment Group Package: It adds a 10-inch touchscreen with sat-nav and nine speakers Alpine audio system. Separate options include a 10-inch passenger touchscreen, rear seats entertainment system, sunroof, and towing package.
|
TrailhawkThis trim is made to deliver the best off-road performance possible. It comes in four-wheel-drive only. It is also available with the hybrid powertrain and gets the optional V-8. The price tag is 53,000$. |
It comes with Goodyear All-terrain tires like the Jeep Wrangler.
An electronic rear limited-slip differential and disconnecting stabilizer bar. Adaptive Quadra-lift air suspension. Front camera to navigate through trails. Hill descent and ascent control. Tow hook. An auto-dimming rearview mirror and gloss black roof. Ventilated seats with leather trim. Sat-nav and nine speakers Alpine audio system. |
The Trailhawk gets all the features and packages that are offered with the previous Limited trim.
It includes the Lux Tech Group package, Entertainment Group Package, and Advanced ProTech Group Package. It adds a panoramic sunroof and night vision camera as optional extras. |
OverlandThis trim gets a taste of both worlds. It has the luxury features from the Limited and off-road capabilities from the Trailhawk. It comes with 55,000$ price tag. |
It comes fitted with 20-inch wheels, upgraded leather interior, sat-nav, ambient lighting, panoramic roof, power-adjusted steering wheel, and Alpine audio system.
The four-wheel-drive models get All-terrain tires, Quadra-lift air suspension, hill ascent and descent control, and a two-speed transfer case. |
It gets the same packages as the previous trims, plus tow and off-road packages.
It adds four-zone climate control, massage seats, a 19-speaker McIntosh premium audio system, heads-up display, skid plates, rear differential, and auto pilot. |
SummitIt is one of the two topline trims of the Grand Cherokee lineup. Starting price of 59,000$. |
It has all the premium package features as standard. That includes:
Massage seats Active driver-assist (auto pilot) Cross-traffic alert Automated parking Surround-view camera And electronic differential for the 4WD models. |
To fully load this trim, there are additional packages to pick.
Lux Tech Group package adds shades to the second row and a wireless charging pad. Advance ProTech package and features a heads-up display, digital rearview mirror, and night vision camera.
|
Summit ReserveIt is the big daddy of the Grand Cherokee and comes loaded with all bell and whistles. It costs 65,000$ |
In addition to every package and feature that the previous trims come with, the Summit Reserve comes with a premium leather interior, wood trim, and 21-inch alloy wheels. | Video Group I package. The latter adds display infotainment touchscreens to the back seats. |
Bear in mind that the prices vary depending on the dealership on what features you added to your Jeep. A fully loaded Limited Grand Cherokee can bypass the 55,000$ mark with all the additional extras.
Pros and Cons
Here is a short list of the good and the ugly about the new 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Pros
- Sublime safety and driver aid system
- Magnificent off-road performance
- Different powertrain options
- A long list of various convenience features
- Astonishing sound and power from the big V-8
Cons
- The price tag is too high
- Poor fuel economy
- The center console layout is a bit confusing and can be hard to see
- The gloss interior gets dirty fast
Competitors
The SUV segment is a very competitive segment, with manufacturers around the globe trying to get a piece of the pie. From the German giants to American Icons, Jeep is going against the best in the business.
Some of the noteworthy rivals are the Honda Passport with its smart storage, torquey V-6, and comfy interior. The German mammoth Volkswagen is in the game with the Atlas Cross Sport. The latter has a sleek design and high-quality interior.
Ford is swinging at full power with the spacious and powerful explorer. Finally, Dodge is coming up strong with the Durango lineup. The latter offers various features in addition to the SRT and the Hellcat models.
FAQs
Question: Where is the Jeep Trackhawk?
Answer: The manufacturer unveiled the new model with all the trims and specs details. However, the performance Trackhawk and SRT models are nowhere to be found. Jeep axed the SRT and Trackhawk models according to online forums due to gas prices and environmental issues.
But other reports claimed that the performance models would follow suit later this year. Yet, instead of having a thirsty supercharged V-8 under the hood, it will use the new hybrid technology.
Question: Which Grand Cherokee Model should I Buy?
Answer: The price tag for the new model is too expensive, for a Jeep at least. However, the 2022 Grand Cherokee is redesigned, refined, and loaded with high-tech niceties.
The entry-level Laredo can be upgraded with packages, but you would be better off with the Limited model. It comes with many amenities as standard and falls right in the middle of the pack.
Question: What is the Worst Grand Cherokee Model?
Answer: If you are looking to purchase a Grand Cherokee, avoid 2011-, 2014-, and 2015-year models. According to the collected data, these models suffer from braking, electrical, and engine problems that will cost you a lot in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Jeep is one of the best off-road car manufacturers there is. The Wrangler alone boasts legendary heritage and unmatched capabilities. But in reality, the Grand Cherokee has been and probably will always be the brand’s best-selling model.
Despite a decade-old design, people loved the Grand Cherokee, and they had no choice but to love the new premium model.
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