Why buy a used Jeep Grand Cherokee?
If you're in the market for a car that looks good while remaining comfortable and practical, then a used Jeep Grand Cherokee is a great choice. This Jeep SUV is designed for off-road travel, but it also makes a great family vehicle. With several powertrain options and plenty of standard kit, the Grand Cherokee is suitable for a wide variety of used car buyers.
Used Jeep Grand Cherokee buying guide
While the newest lineup is moving to all hybrid, previous versions have been available in petrol and diesel configurations. These have always been paired with an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
Engines and transmissions
Petrol
- Trackhawk has a 6.2-litre supercharged V8 Hemi to create 700bhp, offering a 0-62mph time of just 3.7 seconds, but it has an efficiency rating of 16.9mpg.
- 2.0 PHEV 4xe provides 375bhp and up to 31 miles of electric-only driving per charge.
Diesel
- 3.0-litre MultiJet II outputs 247bhp, giving it a 0-62mph time of 8.2 seconds and an efficiency rating of 28.8mpg.
- The MultiJet II diesel-powered models can tow up to 3,500kg.
- 3.0-litre CRD has slightly lower power, creating 237bhp.
Practicality
Despite being hailed for its off-road performance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is also immensely practical for on-road family driving.
Interior space
- Upmarket materials and features on more recent versions create a comfortable driving experience.
- Five adults fit well in the cabin, with plenty of knee and headroom.
- Rear chairs recline for more comfort and air vents allow for better climate control.
- ISOFIX mounts found on outer rear seats for installing child seats.
Boot space
- 782 litres of boot space measured to the roof.
- Folding the rear seats opens up 1,554 litres of space.
- Available powered tailgate and lowered suspension make it easier to load and unload.
Safety
- Euro NCAP rating was perfect five out of five stars in 2022.
- Adult occupant, child occupant, vulnerable road users and road assist ratings are all over 80%.
- Standard safety kit includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision alert and blind spot monitors.
Technology
- TFT driver display is customisable and easy to read.
- Available 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen works with UConnect system and 3D navigation.
- Range-topping premium Harman Kardon sound system has 19 speakers.
Different generations of used Jeep Grand Cherokee
While Jeep had already been a leader in off-road SUVs, the company hadn't been in the large family SUV market until the release of the Grand Cherokee in 1992. Even though it had the classic Jeep grille and off-road styling, the Grand Cherokee ZJ was revealed with a premium, upmarket feel that appealed to a different crowd. The SUV has been a big success and is now in its fifth generation. Jeep continues to make it more capable, efficient and desirable with each update.
Fifth Generation (2021-present)
Jeep had already sold more than seven million Grand Cherokees since its introduction when the fifth generation was released. Therefore, the company knew that no major changes were needed to keep the Jeep SUV popular. Yet it was also time for some tech upgrades and that's precisely what Jeep decided to focus on.
Built on the same platform as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, the new Jeep arrived with a lower roofline that added a sleek look. Jeep also released the 4xe hybrid models to increase the efficiency and to remain on track with switching over to electric.
Fourth Generation (2011-2020)
There weren't a lot of changes required with the fourth-generation Grand Cherokee, based on its popularity. However, Jeep added some new tech features, upgraded the engine options and enhanced the styling slightly. New materials were also used inside, and some safety equipment was upgraded.
A 2013 facelift enhanced the performance, especially for off-road terrain. Trailhawk models received new off-road tyres and better wheels. It also received new tow hitches in the back and front, and an air suspension that bumped up the ground clearance to 11 inches. In 2018, the Trackhawk was released, becoming the world's most powerful SUV at the time.
