2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Performance

There are two engine options available for the Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV, and only one of them can be described as modern. Jeep is getting the most out of the Pentastar V6, but the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 has been discontinued; but, to be fair, neither engine is considered state of the art. The Summit Reserve and 4xe models are only available in 4WD, while the rest of the range comes standard with RWD and 4WD as an option.

Outputs range from 293-375 hp, and inevitably, we'll see SRT models and perhaps even a new Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. But in base form, these SUVs aren't about 0-60 dashes and top speed runs. When it comes to SUVs, the tow rating is far more important. The 4xe has the lowest tow rating at 6,000 lbs, followed by the V6, which can tow 6,200 lbs. The old V8 could tow 7,200 lbs.

Jeep provides a mix of old and new with its powertrain options. The 3.6-liter base V6 produces 293 hp at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine is quite peaky when it comes to torque delivery, due to the lack of turbocharging.

The 4xe's powertrain delivers 375 hp at 5,200 rpm and 470 lb-ft at a much lower 3,000 rpm. Thanks to the electric motor, a huge portion of the torque is available instantaneously. Jeep assures us that a reserve battery means you'll never run out of electric assistance and revert back to base power outputs, which is a fault that has been leveled against hybrids in the past. Having not yet driven the 4xe, this is something we're yet to test.

All models use the same eight-speed automatic transmission, but the 4xe models' electric motor is incorporated into the gearbox. Jeep did this to ensure that you still have 4WD, even if the batteries are flat.

Speaking of 4WD, there are three options available: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II with rear electronic limited-slip differential. The first is a basic permanent 4WD system with an active torque split function, while Quadra-Trac II adds a transfer case with a low range. Quadra-Drive II is limited to the Trailhawk models, as it has a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, a rear electronic limited-slip differential, and the advanced Selec-Terrain traction management system with various driving modes.

According to the EPA, the Pentastar V6 engine is capable of 19/26/22 mpg city/highway/combined gas mileage figures, regardless of whether you spec 2WD or 4WD. The discontinued V6 was thirstier at 14/22/17 mpg.

4xe models manage 23 mpg on gas only, or 56 MPGe. These have a range of 26 miles on electric power alone.