2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 51 Grand Cherokee reviews and test drives.
Jeep Grand Cherokee - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks 10 out of 26 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Grand Cherokee offers excellent off-road capabilities and a better-equipped, more refined interior than the previous model -- but still can't match the rear seat comfort or cargo capacity of others in its class. Regardless, it ranks in the top half of its class.
Reviewers see the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee as an excellent off-road vehicle with a luxurious interior, plenty of options and five strong engine choices. Redesigned for this year, the SUV features a new 4.7-liter V8 engine that delivers a 24 percent increase in horsepower and improved fuel economy over the previous V8. Though it has changed little on the outside, the new Grand Cherokee features a refreshed interior and several new options, including high-intensity discharge auto-leveling headlamps, SIRIUS Backseat TV and a MyGig entertainment system.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee debuted in 1993 and was last redesigned in 1999. Most feel the newest 2008 redesign is an improvement over previous models. Autobytel sees the new SUV as "an equally capable, equally luxurious, more reliable and less expensive competitor to everything from a Land Rover LR2 to a Porsche Cayenne" and concludes that "the Grand Cherokee makes sense."
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has four available trims: the base Laredo, the Limited, the Overland and the performance-minded SRT-8. All are available in two- or four-wheel drive, with the exception of the SRT-8, which comes only in 4WD. A V6 diesel engine is optional for Limited and Overland trims.
- "The Grand Cherokee is a capable SUV -- but it isn't the standout it was back in the early 1990s, simply because there are now so many good trucks on the market." -- Car and Driver
- "With its comfortable ride, strong performance and handling, as well as its luxurious interior, these Jeeps will make it much easier to sell the American public on diesels in the future." -- Detroit News
Grand Cherokee Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)
Reviewers feel that the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers excellent off-road handling and good performance from its V8 engines, earning it a performance score near the top of its class. "With a throaty exhaust note from the big block HEMI V-8, the SUV delivers a powerful, precise and responsive performance," says the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "This fun-to-drive vehicle will make one wonder if it is a sports car or an SUV." Continue with our full Performance review to learn which of the many engine options may be right for you. continue
Grand Cherokee Exterior - 8.1 (Very Good)
Reviewers largely approve of the slight styling tweaks made to the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee's exterior, which ranks near the middle of its class. The Detroit News concludes that it's "a sharp looking vehicle. It's distinctively Jeep, with its seven-slotted grille stretched wider and round head lights added in the makeover." Continue with our full Exterior review to learn how the SRT8's styling differs from the other trims, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Grand Cherokee Interior - 7.9 (Good)
Reviewers generally find the Grand Cherokee's five-seat interior even more attractive than the previous model, with better quality to boot. Consequently, its cabin ranks in the top half of its class. 4-Wheel & Off-Road says, "On the inside, the vehicle's two-tone instrument panel features a new level of refinement with bright accents, a soft-touch surface and updated styling." However, reviewers also complain about the uncomfortable rear seats and small cargo area. Continue with our Interior Review to learn about one of the SUV's standout options -- the first-ever in-vehicle television streaming technology, or check out our interior photos. continue
Grand Cherokee Safety - 9.6 (Excellent)
The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee does extremely well in federal government crash tests, receiving top scores. It also comes with plenty of safety features, including electronic stability control and traction control. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn how the SUV fares in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests. continue
Grand Cherokee Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is covered by a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn about the Grand Cherokee's powertrain warranty. continue