JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE WK: Revitalized for 2022 and looking great.
PROS: Redesigned for 2022; optional plug-in hybrid engine; lots of standard tech; exciting engines; and high towing capacities.
CONS: Low fuel efficiency; average cargo area; and pricey for what you get.
VERDICT: It's refreshing to see such an updated Grand Cherokee, but it's not necessarily a top choice compared to other midsize SUVs.
Does it have any competitors or rivals?
Kia Telluride, Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Traverse, and Hyundai Palisade.
What’s interesting about the GRAND CHEROKEE WK?
- Don't confuse the Grand Cherokee WK with the Grand Cherokee L – they're similar but different enough that we've reviewed them separately.
- The Grand Cherokee Wk seats five, while the L seats six or seven.
- Three powertrains are available: a V6, a V8, and a plug-in hybrid called 4xe (reviewed separately).
- Though it has undergone a facelift, the Grand Cherokee is still made for off-roading adventures.
How about the prices and trims?
Four trims are available this year and the base, Laredo E, starts at $37,375. Next, Laredo X adds a few extra features and costs $40,680 and Limited costs $43,225. The top-tier trim, Trailhawk, costs $54,630. We're surprised by these costs, considering the Grand Cherokee is not a luxury SUV.
The Laredo trims feature many of the elements drivers need and want. However, if you're looking for a Grand Cherokee with a bit of panache, check out the Limited trim. We're not entirely convinced it's worth the price, especially when you look at the accents up close, but it sure looks good from afar.
Which one do we recommend?
We recommend opting for the mid-tier Laredo X. This trim comes with many of the features most drivers need. If you find yourself wanting to add more than a package or two, just add another $3,000 and for the Limited.
What about its availability?
Grand Cherokee WK models are available at your nearby Jeep dealerships nationwide. However, if you're interested in the 4xe, the plug-in hybrid, you'll have to wait until Spring to test drive it.
What about its performance and handling?
- The standard engine for the Grand Cherokee is a 290-horsepower V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
- A V8 engine is available for the Trailhawk trim and gets paired with all-wheel drive.
- The towing capacity is an impressive 6,200 pounds with the V6 and 7,200 with the V8.
- A plug-in hybrid version called 4xe is also available and gets reviewed separately.
The Grand Cherokee comes with exciting off-roading capabilities, but that doesn't mean city driving is choppy. Overall, shoppers can expect an easygoing driving experience with either the V6 or the V8. Opting for the V8 will provide an extra layer of responsiveness and it's louder than the V6. Unfortunately, the fuel economy isn't as good as it could be for 2022. The V6 averages 19/26 mpg in the city/highway, and adding AWD reduces those numbers further. Worse still, the V8 only gets 14/22 mpg. While this might not bother some drivers looking for an SUV that can play in the mud, this won't meet the average family's benchmarks.
How’s the interior?
Cabin Space
One of the perks for 2022 is the complete restyling of the interior. The base trim still keeps most things pretty basic, but the Limited trim's fashionable touches will probably surprise you. All the seats are comfortable, and most adults can fit in the backseat comfortably. Because the Grand Cherokee has a raised clearance, shorter adults or children will have to make an effort to hop into their seats. The cargo area is average for similarly-sized vehicles. If you need more space, we recommend reading our review of the Grand Cherokee L.
Infotainment and connectivity
Grand Cherokees get fitted with an 8.4-inch touchscreen that features Uconnect, Android Auto, AppleCarPlay, USB ports, and satellite radio. Most drivers won't have a hard time getting used to the controls, and the screen has crisp graphics. Plenty of upgrades are available, including a 10-inch touchscreen, a nine- or sixteen-speaker sound system, navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a 10.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger.
LIKES: Lots of infotainment and practical features come standard on the base trims.
DISLIKES: The passenger touchscreen can distract drivers and we think its excessive.
How about the technology and features?
LIKES: Additional standard elements include dual-zone climate control, a push-button start, and a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Remote start, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and a quad-zone climate control system are available.
DISLIKES: Due to the interior build, pillars create blind spots when reversing. (Thankfully, a rearview camera comes standard.)
Quick Quirks: Few drivers assistance programs get included on the Grand Cherokee, so we recommend adding programs such as lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. |
Some additional features include:
- Check out the Security and Convenience optional package. It comes with a 115-volt power outlet, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a remote start system.
- Though the backseat has LATCH connectors for child car seats, they're difficult to maneuver.
- Trailhawk has extra features that make it ready for adventures, including a limited-split differential, a terrain management system, tow hooks, and an off-road camera.
- The second-row seats feature a 60/40-split fold to make loading easy.
How’s the exterior?
Minor enhancements got added to the Grand Cherokee's exterior this year. They're subtle, but the 2022 model carries a more refined and sophisticated look, making this SUV look less rugged. Thankfully it still carries some classic Jeep touches, most notably the front grille. Jeep enthusiasts might not like the more plush look, but we appreciate the brand's attempt to keep up with the times.
What warranty and safety does it offer?
Many safety features come standard, and the Grand Cherokee WK includes an above-average warranty package.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has awarded the Grand Cherokee WK five out of five stars.
- Blind-spot monitoring is one of the few safety programs that come standard.
- Limited warranty for 36,000 miles or three years.
- Electric powertrain warranty for 60,000 miles or five years.
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years.
Are there any incentives and rebates for the Grand Cherokee WK?
To learn about incentives and rebates, visit Jeep.com or your local Jeep dealership.
