2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Used Jeep Grand Cherokee
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Based on analysis of 59 Grand-Cherokee reviews and test drives.
Jeep Grand Cherokee - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks 12 out of 31 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 59 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is an excellent off-road vehicle with a luxurious interior -- a rare combination in the realm of SUVs. Nonetheless, it still can't match the rear-seat comfort or cargo capacity of others in its class, which means it may not be a very good family hauler.
"Rear-seat room and comfort may disappoint, and fuel economy with gasoline engines is poor on models we tested," says Consumer Guide. "But Grand Cherokee is solid, rides comfortably, has fine ergonomics, and is tenacious off-road." With a base price just over $30,000, the Grand Cherokee is on the expensive side for its class and is even one of the more expensive off-road SUVs. While its 16/21 mpg fuel economy is low compared to most SUVs, it's actually pretty good when compared to only other off-road vehicles.
Still, few direct competitors can match the Grand Cherokee's interior refinement. If you need off-road chops and creature comforts but don't want to upgrade to a luxury SUV, it's the only game in town. However, if you can do without a luxe interior, there are more affordable off-road choices.
The Nissan Pathfinder costs a few thousand less than the Jeep, as does the Ford Explorer. However, they both have worse fuel economy. If you want an off-road vehicle with better fuel economy, consider the Jeep Patriot. It's the least expensive off-roader on the market and provides a 23/28 best-in-class fuel economy rating (when compared only to other off-road SUVs). The Suzuki Grand Vitara also costs less than the Grand Cherokee while providing a 19/26 mpg rating.
For 2010, the Grand Cherokee's Overland trim is discontinued. Since that's the only major change, you may want to buy a 2009 model instead. You might be able to snag a discount as dealers make room on their lots for 2010s. Check out these Jeep deals for incentives. However, note that the Grand Cherokee will be redesigned in 2011 with a new engine option that could increase fuel economy by 11 percent.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in three trims -- the base Laredo, Limited, and performance-minded SRT8.
- "A solid, steady ride, with car-like handling and comfort and easy interior ergonomics make the 2009 Cherokee a driver-friendly car." -- Car Gurus
- "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
- "In today's world of high fuel prices and on-road-biased crossover SUVs, the...Jeep Grand Cherokee is looking a little out of place. If you need to go off road or tow something, though, this top-of-the-line Jeep is still a great way to go." -- Edmunds
- "The Grand Cherokee provides ample room for a family of four without being too cumbersome. It's comfortable and stylish without being obnoxiously overloaded, and it has a reassuring steadiness under the toughest road conditions." -- Mother Proof
Grand-Cherokee Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)
The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee excels at off-road handling and boasts plenty of power from its robust engine line-up. Reviewers especially love the fun-driving SRT8, which starts at around $10,000 more than base models. "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." Remember though, buyers will pay a price at the pump for all that power. Read More
Grand-Cherokee Exterior - 8.8 (Very Good)
Reviewers largely approve of the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee's classic exterior, which got a few modifications as part of last year's redesign. "With its upright and substantial posture, the Jeep Grand Cherokee's design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance," writes 4-Wheel & Off-Road. Read More
Grand-Cherokee Interior - 7.7 (Good)
The Jeep Grand Cherokee's five-seat interior is attractive and refined compared to its off-road competitors. 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, uncomfortable rear seats and a small cargo area temper the praise, which means this Jeep may not be the best family vehicle. Read More
Grand-Cherokee Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)
The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee does extremely well in federal government crash tests. It also comes with plenty of standard safety features, including electronic stability control and traction control. Read More
Grand-Cherokee Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2010 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 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee is covered by a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
