The year was 1992, it was the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. When Bob Lutz, then Chrysler President unveiled Grand Cherokee to the world. The vehicle was no simpleton and the unveiling was not unadorned either. He drove the SUV, up the stairs and through a glass window. Yeah, that's how it was introduced to the world.
Over the years, Jeep has changed many things from looks to power, but one thing has always remained the same, pause, "Soul". The can-do anything, go-anywhere attitude is what Grand Cherokee seems to be full of. Let's find out if the 2020 model still follows the trait.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Grand Cherokee is a well-respected name in the automotive world. Since its debut in 1992, the SUV had fought off legends like the GMC Yukon and Ford Bronco to earn that status. With enthusiasm and admiration growing among the masses, the already potent machine gained more muscle and attitude to be one of the most diverse vehicles in the market. Today, Grand Cherokee offers a fine blend of utility and luxury.
The 2020 Grand Cherokee starts off at $32k and maxes at just under $56k. It is offered in both RWD and 4x4 configurations across its 8 trim levels. The base model’s naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 engine manages to deliver 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. In terms of character, Dodge Durango is the only other SUV worthy of being parked next to it. Grand Cherokee faces competition from the likes of Honda's sensible Pilot and Ford's tried and tested Explorer.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee front view
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee rear view
7.4/10 Features
8.0/10 Engine and Performance
7.0/10 Fuel Economy
7.7/10 Interior
7.0/10 Exterior
7.0/10 Safety
7.0/10 Competition
8.0/10 Final Verdict
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Features
7.4/10
Grand Cherokee’s 8 trims make it a tad bit confusing when choosing which one to buy. All the trims use the same 3.6L V6. So, what makes them different are the features onboard.
Laredo is an attractive option for those who want to get their money's worth. Upland and Altitude trims sport a more stylish set of black rims and tinted taillights. Limited adds the interior finished in leather, along with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Overland trim adds a Quadra lift air suspension system, High-intensity Bi-Xenon headlights, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof along with an interior lavishly furnished in wood and leather.
High Altitude trim provides the drive assist features as standard. It also has an active noise canceling system. At the top sits Summit, where we see a 19 speaker hi-fi surround sound system tailor-made by Harman Kardon for the Jeep, heated and ventilated front-row seats and a set of 20-inch aluminum rims. The tables below list all the features available in each trim.
Trim
Laredo
Laredo E
Upland
Altitude
Limited
Limited X
Trailhawk
Overland
High Altitude
Summit
MSRP (RWD)
$32,045
$33,895
$35,995
$38,140
$39,855
$44,950
$44,955
$46,295
$49,040
$51,995
MSRP (4WD)
$34,345
$35,895
$38,490
$40,440
$45,250
$50,345
$48,350
$52,690
$55,435
$58,390
Key Features
Blind Spot Monitoring
Adds/Upgrades to Laredo
Adds/Upgrades to Laredo E
Adds/Upgrades to Upland
Adds/Upgrades to Altitude
Adds/Upgrades to Limited
Adds/Upgrades to Limited X
Adds/Upgrades to Trailhawk
Adds/Upgrades to Overland
Adds/Upgrades to High Altitude
Rear Cross Path Detection
8 Way power Driver seat with 4-way power lumbar adjustment
Universal Remote Transmitter
Uconnect 4C with 8.4-inch touchscreen
Heated Capri leather driver and front passenger seats
Distinctive Limited X Badging
Remote activated perimeter/approach lights
Dual-Pane Panoramic sunroof
Black Nappa perforated leather-trimmed seats
Harmon Kardon High-Performance Audio System features 19 speakers with active noise cancellation
Rear Backup Camera with Park Assist
Heated Steering Wheel
Heated Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Heated Multifunctional power exterior chrome mirrors
Granite Crystal Exterior Accents
Black and Metal Grille
Quadra-Lift Air Suspension System
Low gloss granite crystal badging, grille bezels, step pad and taillamps
Heated and Ventilated first row leather seats
Uconnect 4 with a 7-inch Touchscreen
20 inch Gloss Black Wheels with All-Terrain Tires
Power Liftgate
18 inch polished aluminum wheels
20-inch low gloss granite crystal wheels
Single Sunroof
20 inch polished/tech gray aluminum wheel
20-inch wheel with granite crystal low gloss finish
20 inch fully polished aluminum wheels
Keyless Entry
Gloss Black Exterior Finishes
Remote ignition
Black Interior with Liquid Titanium finishes and heritage seats
Trailhawk Leather/Suede Seats
Bi-Xenon High-Intensity Discharge Headlamps with Signature LED Daytime running lamps
Jeep Active Safety Group
Illuminated Sill Plated and Premium Headliner
Cruise Control
Desert Sky accent on badging
Heated front seats
Red Tow Hooks
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Black Chrome Dual Exhaust tips
Adaptive cruise control with stop
Keyless Ignition
Black Tow Hooks
Nappa leather-trimmed interior with real wood and leather-wrapped heated steering wheel
Forward collision warning with active braking
Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
Black Interior with Blue accent stiching and black premium cloth seats
Nine Speaker Alpine Audio System with active noise cancellation
Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist
Interior Air Filteration
Lane Departure warning with lane keep assist
Which trim to buy?
According to us, Limited is a great choice. Priced at $39k, it offers plenty of kit for its sub $40K price tag. The optional packages such as Protech II provide autonomous driving functionalities which include the Forward collision warning, Lane Departure Warning, Advanced brake assist, Parallel and perpendicular park assist, adaptive cruise control.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Engine and Performance
8.0/10
Jeep seems to have felt no need to refresh the standard engine of Grand Cherokee, and rightly so. Its naturally aspirated V6 is a powerhouse, which is more than capable of thrusting the hefty built of the mid-size SUV. The powertrain makes a healthy 295 horses and 260 lb-ft of torque mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee's engine makes a healthy 295 horsepower
The drivetrain is quite smooth however in an age of turbocharged motors, the low end does seem to lack a punch that people have come to expect from an SUV of this caliber. One has to rev the engine in order to extract the meat of the power band. Nonetheless, throttle response is not bad although it might require flooring the pedal a little.
Models
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Dodge Durango
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
MSRP
$32,045
$30,495
$31,550
$33,690
Engine
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6
3.5L Naturally Aspirated V6
2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4
Drivetrain
RWD
RWD
FWD
RWD
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic Transmission
8-Speed Automatic Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
10-Speed Automatic
Power
295hp@6,400rpm
293hp@6,400rpm
280hp@6,000rpm
300hp@5,500rpm
Torque
260lb-ft@4,000rpm
260lb-ft@4,000rpm
262lb-ft@4,700rpm
310lb-ft@3500rpm
Ford used a turbocharged engine in its Explorer which boosts the power but comes with its own trade-offs like turbo lag. On the other hand, Grand Cherokee with its natural aspirated engine has just about the same performance and provides a more linear power delivery.
Jeep Grand Cherokee "0-60"?
Jeep Grand Cherokee speeds away with an unexpected refinement. Despite its heavyweight and bulky stature, it takes less than 7 seconds to sprint from 0-60 mph. The throttle response is linear and gratifying too, which is a delight. Its acceleration feels underwhelming only when compared to its bigger siblings, the Grand Cherokee SRT and the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds
Models
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Dodge Durango
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
0-60 MPH
6.7 sec
7.6 sec
8 sec
6.8 sec
Quarter Mile
15.2 sec
15.8 sec
15.1 sec
15.3 sec
Top Speed
180 MPH
N/A
N/A
N/A
Engine
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6
3.5L Naturally Aspirated V6
2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4
When compared to the rivals Grand Cherokee stands high and wide, not only the literal way. It's heavy yet fast, which is no small feat when glancing at the opposition like Honda Pilot which notwithstanding its weight advantage lacks the thrust.
What about Braking?
With its weight and generous size, it's not easy to tame the Grand Cherokee hence the need for the sturdy brakes. Jeep continuing the ritual of not compromising did the exact. There is a little nose dive which is to be expected. The brakes present are the hydraulic due to which the pedal may feel snatchy at first but it sets in well in the first couple of miles of driving.
Model
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Dodge Durango
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
Brake Rotors Front
13"
13"
12.6"
12.8"
Brake Rotors Rear
13"
13"
13"
12.8"
Curb Weight
4625 lbs
4989 lbs
4036 lbs
4443 lbs
60-0 MPH
124 ft
127 ft
123 ft
125 ft
Weight plays a major role in the braking of any vehicle and this is true in this scenario as well. Honda being the lightest comes to a standstill in the shortest distance, whereas Dodge takes the longest. Jeep surprises us here with its brake bite, as it performs almost on par with Pilot despite its clear weight disadvantage over the Honda.
What about Driving Dynamics?
Ride quality is one of the best aspects of the Grand Cherokee. It offers a calm and plush ride navigating through city streets, fancy the highways, and is at home in the dust. The suspension is tuned optimally for comfort hence you are in the lap of luxury even in the mud and wilderness. But at no point does it feel too cushy or wallowey as a result it manages to stay plated even at high speeds.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV Rear View
The steering is firm which affects the handling so it might not be as nimble as your typical hatchback navigating through narrow city streets or cutting through rush hour traffic, but this does come in handy at motorway speeds. But take it off the tarmac and into the land where no car-based vehicle dares it comes to life and performs beautifully. Grand Cherokee is a whole experience in itself and one has to drive it to believe it.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fuel Economy
7.0/10
The SUVs are known as gas guzzlers and the same can be seen in all these. But the automakers have at least tried to leave that behind and have been using technologies to produce vehicles that are great on gas.
Grand Cherokee with its Pentastar V6 is a perfect example of that. As it comes equipped with an engine start-stop feature that turns the engine off when it comes to a complete halt. This helps in increasing its fuel efficiency.
Model
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Dodge Durango
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
MPG (City)
18
19
19
21
MPG (Highway)
25
26
27
28
MPG (Combined)
21
21
22
24
Fuel Capacity
24.6 gallons
24.6 gallons
19.5 gallons
19.2 gallons
Range (City/Hwy/Combined)
467/640/516 miles
467/640/516 miles
371/527/429 miles
403/538/460 miles
Emission
(Tons/yr. of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)
8.4
8.4
8
7.3
Honda staying true to its image is the most efficient SUV out of the group. Closely followed by both Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango leaving Ford for the last.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Interior
7.7/10
The interior changes depending on the trim you go with. As you move up the trim ladder, the SUV becomes plusher, and 'Grand'. The use of leather can be found in the lower variants too but only where it matters and other than that use of hard plastic persists. So, it can be luxurious and rugged, depends on the money spent.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Seating and Comfort
The cabin is spacious. Plenty of room both in the front and the back. The tilting and telescoping steering wheels make it easy for a driver of any size to comfortably sit. The driver view is plentiful, but the tick A-pillars sometimes obstruct view while turning. The cabin is generally quiet with the exception of engine noise, although, it sounds good. Tire noise is minimal.
Model
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Dodge Durango
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
Seating Capacity
5
5
8
7
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
39.9/58.7/40.3
39.9/58.5/40.3
40.1/62/40.9
41.4/61.5/42.9
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
39.2/58/38.6
39.8/50.4/38.6
40.2/62/38.4
40.6/61/39.5
Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango are cut from the same cloth, as they both offer an almost identical amount of space. Where Jeep leads by hair width in the front shoulder, Dodge has an upper hand in the back shoulder space. But they are not competing for the winner's chair, that belongs to both Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer.
How does the Grand Cherokee's Infotainment system fair?
Jeep has one of the best infotainment systems, called Uconnect. It is easy to use and the touch-screen is snappy. The base variant gets a 5.0-inch screen which is not enough, Jeep offers an 8.4-inch screen that gets the job done. The SUV has six-speaker as standard but chooses the 19 speakers, tuned by Harman/Kardon, it feels like a home theatre.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen display
Cargo space in the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The Grand Cherokee’s cargo space may not be class-leading but it is plentiful. A 36.3 cubic feet space with a power liftgate makes it a sensible choice for any long trip. Plus there are rear foldable seats present as well which almost doubles the cargo space.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Cargo Space
Model
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Dodge Durango
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
Cargo Capacity
36.3 cu.ft.
47.7 cu.ft.
16.5 cu.ft.
21 cu.ft.
Cargo Capacity (with rear seats down)
68.3 cu.ft.
84.5 cu.ft.
83.9 cu.ft.
80.7 cu.ft.
Grand Cherokee has good cargo space but looks small when compared with the rivals which offers much more. Dodge and Honda leading the race with Ford just behind them.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee interior2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee dashboard2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee steering2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee rear seat2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee cargo space2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV Seats2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV Seats2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV Seats
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Exterior
7.0/10
Grand Cherokee is big and bold. It has a character like no other which makes it one in a crowd. Unlike other SUVs, it looks aggressive and merciless. This Sporty look appeals to a specific kind of crowd that wants their vehicle to introduce them before they themselves have to.
The Grand Cherokee is big and bold
The angular cuts, the low aggressive bumper, and the iconic 7 slot front grille mark the identity of any Jeep.
Model
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Dodge Durango
Honda Pilot
Ford Explorer
Curb Weight
4625 lbs
4989 lbs
4036 lbs
4443 lbs
Length
190.7"
199.8"
190.9"
184.3"
Width
76.5"
75.8"
78.6"
78.9"
Height
69.3"
70.9"
70.6"
70"
Ground Clearance
8.6"
8.1"
8.4"
7.8"
Wheelbase
114.8"
119.8"
111"
112.8"
All these vehicles feature similar dimensions on the outside and have little to no upper hand in some areas. Dodge has the longest wheelbase and is heaviest of the bunch, whereas Grand Cherokee offers most ground clearance.
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee rear view2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee side view2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV Badge2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV Badge
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety
7.0/10
Given the reputation, Jeep has we expect the 2020 Grand Cherokee to perform excellently in the safety department. It has not have been rated by any safety organization yet but it has a plethora of safety features. Those safety features plus the body and chassis of the SUV should be enough to keep you protected in case of any misadventure. Some of the highlight features are:-
Rear door child safety locks
Daytime running lights
Engine Immobilizer
Dual front side-mounted airbags
Stability control
Remote anti-theft alarm system
4 wheel ABS
Brake Drying
Emergency Braking preparation
Post-collision Safety Systems
Front and rear head airbags
Ventilated Front Disk Brakes
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Competition
7.0/10
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2020 Dodge Durango
The 2020 Dodge Durango is the only vehicle that comes closest to the Grand Cherokee in terms of character. With its similar engine and comparable performance, Durango is a natural competitor to Grand Cherokee. The subtle differences in the exterior and interior and the name at the front is the deciding factors. The choice is simple and comes down to what one wants.
2020 Dodge Durango
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2020 Honda Pilot
Honda Pilot has a lot of potentials. It is lighter, more agile and has a better fuel economy than Grand Cherokee. On the other hand, Grand Cherokee feels more robust, has better acceleration, and in the higher trims, offers many more features thane Honda Pilot.
2020 Honda Pilot
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2020 Ford Explorer
What Ford Explorer lacks in the fuel economy, it makes up with performance, cabin and cargo space. It is one of the most practical cars within the bunch and that makes it a good choice. On the other hand, Grand Cherokee has better acceleration figures and is superior off-road capabilities.
2020 Ford Explorer
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Final Verdict
8.0/10
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a legend in the American SUV market. Its a name, synonymous with performance and off-roading. It stays true to the “Sport” in “Sport Utility Vehicle”, The Grand Cherokee has maintained the flair it was introduced with. It may have been modernized over the years, but it still remains true to its roots at its core.
Cons - Gas mileage, the interior is of poor quality, maintenance is expensive
Overall Review
6 /10 Overall Rating
Gas guzzler! I know good performance comes at the cost of gas, but It isn’t that powerful where I could willingly compromise on mileage.
6/10
Features
6/10
Interior
6/10
Design
6/10
Safety
6/10
Reliability
6/10
Deal Value
8/10
Dealer Review
JS
James M. Swanson
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
10
User Overall Rating
Posted On: August 10, 2020
Grand Cherokee
Pros - Comfortable, styling, performance
Cons - None
Overall Review
10 /10 Overall Rating
Very agile for an SUV. It is an amazing vehicle to drive. A nice daily driver with all the necessary features.
9/10
Features
10/10
Interior
10/10
Design
10/10
Safety
10/10
Reliability
10/10
Deal Value
9/10
Dealer Review
JC
James A. Charleston
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Upland 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
10
User Overall Rating
Posted On: August 10, 2020
Love my Grand Cherokee
Pros - Comfortable and feature loaded interior, style
Cons - Infotainment has glitch
Overall Review
10 /10 Overall Rating
My purpose of buying an SUV was- I wanted a family car which was capable, powerful, and spacious. Grand Cherokee fulfilled all these requirements and then some!
Gas guzzler! I know good performance comes at the cost of gas, but It isn’t that powerful where I could willingly compromise on mileage.
by Jerry J. Himes
10
User Overall Rating
Grand Cherokee
Very agile for an SUV. It is an amazing vehicle to drive. A nice daily driver with all the necessary features.
by James M. Swanson
10
User Overall Rating
Love my Grand Cherokee
My purpose of buying an SUV was- I wanted a family car which was capable, powerful, and spacious. Grand Cherokee fulfilled all these requirements and then some!
by James A. Charleston
8
User Overall Rating
Great all round
The only demerit Laredo has is poor acceleration. Other than that, it is a great drive to have. Handling is amazing and so is the gas mileage.
by Harry J. Chan
10
User Overall Rating
Copperbottomed
Trying to get my way around it. An avid sedan driver here got my hands on this lovely jeep which for sure is built in a way to tread to the ghost towns and roughest terrains.
