Jeep Grand Cherokee
2011-2024
The Grand Cherokee WK2 represents Jeep's mastery of balancing rugged capability with everyday luxury. It's equally at home navigating city streets or conquering the Rubicon Trail, offering genuine off-road credentials without sacrificing on-road refinement.
Quick Take
The fourth-generation Grand Cherokee marked a significant leap in refinement and capability for Jeep's flagship SUV. Available with engines ranging from a fuel-efficient V6 to the potent 6.4L HEMI V8 in SRT trim, it balanced on-road comfort with legendary off-road prowess.
Best For
Key Strength
Unmatched Performance Range
Watch For
Reliability Concerns
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Building on decades of Grand Cherokee legacy, the WK2 generation elevated the nameplate to new heights of sophistication. It maintained the iconic seven-slot grille and commanding presence while introducing modern safety technology and premium materials throughout.
Design Philosophy
Jeep designed the WK2 Grand Cherokee around the principle that capability shouldn't require compromise. Every element from the sophisticated Quadra-Trac II 4WD system to the available air suspension was engineered to deliver confidence in any environment while providing daily comfort.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The available engines range from the efficient 3.6L Pentastar V6 delivering smooth power to the thunderous 6.4L HEMI V8 that transforms the SUV into a genuine performance machine. The HEMI's deep rumble and instant torque delivery provide exhilarating acceleration while maintaining the versatility expected from a premium SUV.
Chassis Dynamics
The Grand Cherokee's sophisticated suspension tuning provides a composed ride on-road while maintaining the articulation needed for serious off-road work. Selec-Terrain traction management allows drivers to optimize performance for different conditions, while available air suspension automatically adjusts ride height for optimal approach and departure angles.
Sound Signature
The HEMI V8 produces a distinctive American muscle car growl that's both refined and aggressive. Even the V6 models deliver a satisfying exhaust note that emphasizes the SUV's capability and presence.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The Grand Cherokee offers everything from efficient V6s to the monstrous 707-hp Trackhawk. This incredible engine lineup means there's a Grand Cherokee for every performance need and budget.
With proper equipment, the Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,200 pounds, making it one of the most capable two-row SUVs. The available air suspension and integrated trailer brake controller make heavy hauling surprisingly manageable.
Honest Tradeoffs
Jeep's reliability record is inconsistent, with common issues including electrical problems, transmission concerns, and air suspension failures. These issues can be expensive to repair out of warranty.
Even the base V6 models struggle to achieve competitive fuel economy, while V8 variants are genuinely thirsty. Real-world MPG often falls short of EPA estimates, especially with performance variants.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for those who need genuine capability but refuse to sacrifice comfort and luxury. Appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, families requiring serious towing capacity, and anyone wanting an authentic American SUV experience.