The Grand Cherokee uses an all-new architecture, with front and rear independent suspensions. An available air suspension will enable the driver to lower the vehicle for access and raise it to a 11.3-inch maximum ground clearance.
The core powertrains carry over from the current two-row Grand Cherokee. This means the base engine is the ubiquitous 293-hp, 3.6-liter V6 that is used throughout the Stellantis portfolio. As with several other models, the step up is a 5.7-liter V8, here putting out 357 hp. Both engines are mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Tow capacities are up to 6,200 pounds for the V6 and up to 7,200 pounds for the V8—same as the Grand Cherokee L.
The new 4xe plug-in hybrid version uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder teamed with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It has a 400-volt, 17-kWh battery mounted underneath the vehicle, where it is protected by skid plates. The battery is waterproof, and Jeep claims the 4xe can ford water up to 24 inches deep. Total power is 375 hp and 470 pound-feet of torque, making it the most powerful in the lineup. The 4xe has a 6,000-pound tow capacity and estimated 25-mile electric-only range. There are three driver-selectable modes to determine how the electric power is used: hybrid to combine electric and gas power, electric to draw strictly from the battery, and eSave to preserve or charge the battery for later use.
This engine is offered with Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit trim levels. (See our review of the Jeep Wrangler 4xe.)
Not all versions have a low range. Many Grand Cherokees will come with all-wheel-drive. Only off-road oriented versions will come with low-range gearing and a third system adds a locking rear differential. To further tailor the SUV to road or trail conditions, there are several driver-selectable modes that adjust the engine, transmission, steering, and on some variations, the ride height. These modes include Auto, Sport, Sand/Mud, Rock, and Snow.
Trailhawk models get a new front sway bar disconnect system, a feature normally found on more extreme off roaders such as the Wrangler and new Ford Bronco, that improves suspension articulation in extreme situations such as climbing boulders.
The V6 is available in two- and four-wheel-drive, but the plug-in hybrid and V8 are offered strictly as AWD.