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Jeep Grand Cherokee Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks 5 out of 23 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 22 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Reviewers rave about the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s combination of on-road poise, off-road brawn and interior comfort.

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee shares a platform with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and reviewers say it shows. Though far from sporty, test drivers find that the Jeep Grand Cherokee drives more like a crossover than the burly off-road SUV that it is. Still, there are a few improvements in its drivetrain and performance that reviewers wish to see, even after the Grand Cherokee’s much-needed and much-loved overhaul last year.

Though the Grand Cherokee’s performance is unmistakably Jeep-like, it’s got an interior that some auto writers compare with luxury brands like Lexus. Previous generations of the Grand Cherokee are infamous for their cheap, low-quality interiors, so reviewers are doubly impressed that Jeep was able to improve the new model’s interior so drastically. That shows through in its price though, since fully-equipped, top-of-the-line Grand Cherokee trims can run up a tab that places them in luxury SUV territory.

Overall, most test drivers say that if you’re looking for a family SUV that can handle off-road trips and carpool duty, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a top pick in its class. Just be prepared to make frequent stops at the pump. Some four-wheel drive Grand Cherokee models get worse gas mileage than a four-wheel drive Chevrolet Suburban.

Other Off-Road SUVs to Consider

It’s hard to find another off-road SUV with such impressive on-road handling and luxurious interior accommodations, but if you’re willing to sacrifice some off-road prowess in return for gas mileage and interior comfort, you should take a look at the Ford Explorer. With two-wheel drive and its optional Ecoboost engine, the Explorer gets significantly better fuel economy than the Grand Cherokee’s best fuel economy. The Ford Explorer is a bit more expensive than the Grand Cherokee, but it offers seating for seven and an interior that reviewers say is one of the classiest available in an affordable midsize SUV.

Shoppers who are considering upper trim levels of the Grand Cherokee and need serious off-road capability should consider the Land Rover LR2. Its base price is significantly more than the base Grand Cherokee’s, but it costs the same as a Grand Cherokee Laredo X with four-wheel drive. Plus, the Land Rover offers similar interior features as the Laredo X, like a panoramic sunroof and a manual mode for its automatic transmission.

Details: Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in five trims: the base Laredo, Laredo X, Limited, Overland and Overland Summit. A high-performance trim, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, is reviewed separately. For 2012, Jeep gives V6 models its well-reviewed electro-hydraulic steering system that was previously only paired with the V8 engine. Additionally, V8 models get a revised transmission that allows for six speeds when in manual mode. See the full list of 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee specs.

• "But the 2012 Grand Cherokee, with its well-trimmed and roomier interior, powerful V6 and more refined performance and ride, is in fighting shape as a top contender among midsize SUVs.” -- Edmunds
• "The new Grand Cherokee is a very strong entry in its class, and deserving of consideration from buyers in this crowded segment.” -- Consumer Guide
• "This new one blends an exceptionally refined and solid chassis with a plush interior. It provides nearly full-size SUV roominess, towing capacity and, of course, it maintains the Jeep trail capability.” -- Popular Mechanics

• "No matter your destination or proclivities, there's a Grand Cherokee to suit your needs on road, and the competition doesn't even come close to matching its abilities off road.” -- Autoblog

Grand Cherokee Performance - 8.6 (Very Good)

Reviewers say the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is competent on-road and is a brawny boulder-crusher off-road, which is an unlikely combination. “The new Grand Cherokee manages to provide on-road driving refinement that can go toe-to-toe with the best that the crossover segment has to offer - and it does so without sacrificing its considerable off-road capabilities,” writes Cars.com. Read More

Grand Cherokee Exterior - 8.3 (Very Good)

Reviewers say the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee looks sleek and refined without losing its trademark Jeep styling. View Photos

Grand Cherokee Interior - 8.7 (Very Good)

Reviewers are impressed with the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s upscale interior, saying it’s on par with the best in its class. Read More

Grand Cherokee Safety - NA

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee receives very good safety scores from the federal government, and was named a 2012 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Read More

Grand Cherokee Reliability - NA

Jeep covers the 2012 Grand Cherokee with a three-year/36,000-mile basic limited warranty. Read More