2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

By Drew Dorian

Overview

Whether it’s stripped down or dressed to the nines, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a handsome family support vehicle that’s built to go to basically anywhere—even though many buyers won’t put a single tire on to a trail during ownership. Just the knowledge that you could do such a thing if you wanted to makes Jeep ownership sound romantic. Brand image aside, the Grand Cherokee L is one of the top choice among mid-size SUVs. We’ve found the Grand Cherokee L to be a delightful place to spend time, with a comfortable ride, a spacious cabin, and plenty of convenience and luxury features. High-end models push well past Jeep’s mainstream roots in both interior finishes and price tag, but the entry-level models are more affordable and still generously equipped. Of course, not everyone needs a three-row SUV; for those buyers, Jeep offers the slightly smaller, two-row Grand Cherokee(reviewed separately) which shares most of the same mechanical bits and features in a more compact shape and at a slightly lower entry price.

What’s New for 2023?

The three-row Grand Cherokee L receives few changes for 2023, but the Limited and Overland models now come standard with in-dash navigation, and the Jeep’s optional premium stereo systems are now available as standalone options. The nine-speaker Alpine stereo is available on the Limited model while the 19-speaker McIntosh system is available on Overland and Summit trims.

Of the Grand Cherokee L’s six trim levels, the Limited best balances features and pricing. Luxuries such as a power-operated rear liftgate, automatic high-beam headlamps, remote start, interior ambient lighting, driver memory settings, leather upholstery, and heated second-row seats seem well worth the upgrade.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Like the two-row Grand Cherokee, the three-row Grand Cherokee L is available with either a 290-hp V-6 or a 357-hp V-8 with either rear- or all-wheel drive; both engines come with an eight-speed automatic. Those seeking to maximize towing capacity should spec the V-8, which can tow 7200 pounds; V-6 models carry a 6200-pound tow rating. After test driving both, we prefer the V-8, which produces a sonorous rumble and provides more linear power delivery. At our test track, our V-8–powered Summit Reserve test vehicle snapped off a peppy 6.2-second run to 60 mph. The V-6, in comparison, is pokier and not as refined; it needed 8.0 seconds to reach 60 mph in our hands. The Grand Cherokee L’s ride is smooth and handling is competent; in our experience, the steering felt nicely weighted and the brake pedal was reassuringly firm. To continue Jeep’s legacy of off-road capability, the Grand Cherokee L can be equipped with one of three all-wheel-drive systems as well as an optional air suspension, which can be adjusted to provide extra ground clearance.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Fuel-economy estimates for the rear-wheel-drive V-6 model are 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway; adding all-wheel drive drops both of those numbers by 1 mpg. These numbers are in line with V-6–powered rivals such as the Kia Telluride and the Chevrolet Traverse. The V-8–powered model is rated for 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. For more information about the Grand Cherokee L’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

While base Laredo models offer the essentials, upscale Summit and Overland trims add luxuries such as quilted leather upholstery, open-pore wood trim, and high-tech digital displays. All Grand Cherokee L models come with a third row of seats, which means space for up to seven via an optional second-row bench seat; a pair of captain’s chairs are standard and results in space for six riders. If you don’t need the Grand Cherokee L’s third row, you should consider the two-row Grand Cherokee, which we review separately. On upper trims, the Grand Cherokee L’s cabin is downright deluxe, and Jeep offers luxury features such as massaging front seats, quilted leather upholstery, and open-pore wood trim as options.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen sits atop the Grand Cherokee’s dashboard and offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio as standard. In-dash navigation with real-time traffic and weather updates is an optional feature and higher-end models can be had with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the Laredo and Limited models ship with a standard six-speaker stereo, you can upgrade to either a nine-speaker Alpine audio setup or a high-end 19-speaker McIntosh arrangement. A 10.3-inch front-passenger display is optional and similar to that found on the larger Wagoneer models. A pair of 10.1-inch screens are optional too; they are mounted on the backs of the front seats and serve as rear-seat entertainment displays with Amazon FireTV and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Unlike the previous generation Grand Cherokee, the new era ushers in a host of newly standard driver-assistance technology, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. For more information about the Grand Cherokee’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Standard adaptive cruise control

-TJJ