The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out as one of the most popular midsize SUVs in the US. It offers a mix of luxury, performance, and off-road capabilities. The Grand Cherokee comes in several configurations, each designed for different needs and budgets. Understanding these configurations can help you choose the best model for your lifestyle.
Trim Levels And Features
Jeep offers the 2018 Grand Cherokee in seven main trim levels: Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, SRT, and Trackhawk. Each trim brings unique features and options.
Laredo
The Laredo is the base model. It includes a 3.6L V6 engine with 295 horsepower, 17-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen. It’s ideal for buyers seeking affordability and essential features.
Limited
The Limited adds leather upholstery, heated seats, power liftgate, and remote start. It also offers more safety features like rear parking sensors.
Trailhawk
Designed for off-road enthusiasts, the Trailhawk features Quadra-Drive II 4WD, skid plates, tow hooks, and all-terrain tires. The interior is rugged yet comfortable with special badging.
Overland
The Overland combines luxury and performance. It has a panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather seats, and advanced navigation. The ride is smoother, thanks to adaptive suspension.
Summit
The Summit is the high-end luxury trim. It offers a Harman Kardon audio system, active noise cancellation, and advanced driver aids like lane departure warning.
Srt
Built for performance, the SRT has a 6.4L V8 engine with 475 horsepower. It features sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and unique styling.
Trackhawk
The Trackhawk is the top performer. It uses a supercharged 6.2L V8 producing 707 horsepower. With 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, it’s among the fastest SUVs available.
Engine Options
There are four engine choices in the 2018 Grand Cherokee lineup:
- 3.6L V6: Standard on most trims, 295 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque, EPA-estimated 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway.
- 5.7L V8: Optional on higher trims, 360 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque, 14 mpg city/22 mpg highway.
- 6.4L V8: Standard on SRT, 475 hp, 470 lb-ft of torque.
- 6.2L Supercharged V8: Trackhawk only, 707 hp, 645 lb-ft of torque.
These engines cover a wide range from efficient daily driving to high-performance racing.
Interior And Technology
The Grand Cherokee’s cabin changes based on trim. Lower trims have cloth seats and basic infotainment. Higher trims offer leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and premium audio. All models include the Uconnect system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Comparison Of Interior Features
| Trim | Seat Material | Touchscreen Size | Audio System |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laredo | Cloth | 7-inch | 6-speaker |
| Limited | Leather | 8.4-inch | 9-speaker |
| Summit | Nappa Leather | 8.4-inch | 19-speaker Harman Kardon |
Safety And Driver Assistance
Safety is a priority in the 2018 Grand Cherokee. Standard features include rearview camera, parking sensors, and stability control. Higher trims add lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning.
Key Safety Systems
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts you when a car enters your blind spot.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains safe distance from vehicles ahead.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps prevent collisions in traffic.
Many buyers overlook how adaptive cruise control can reduce driver fatigue during long journeys.
Off-road Capabilities
Jeep’s reputation for off-road performance shines in the Grand Cherokee. The Trailhawk trim is specially equipped for rough terrain. It comes with Quadra-Drive II 4WD, hill descent control, and off-road tires. The Overland and Summit also offer adjustable air suspension for better ground clearance.
Off-road Comparison
| Trim | 4WD System | Ground Clearance (in.) | Skid Plates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trailhawk | Quadra-Drive II | 10.8 | Yes |
| Overland | Quadra-Trac II | 10.7 | No |
| Laredo | Quadra-Trac I | 8.6 | No |
Pricing And Value
Prices for the 2018 Grand Cherokee start around $31,500 for the Laredo and can reach $87,000 for the Trackhawk. Most buyers choose the Limited or Overland for their balance of features and price.
Always check for discounts or special offers at dealerships.
One non-obvious insight: some buyers ignore resale value. Trims like Limited and Overland hold value better than SRT or Trackhawk, which depreciate faster because they target niche markets.
Choosing The Right Configuration
Deciding which Grand Cherokee to buy depends on your priorities:
- For budget-conscious buyers, the Laredo covers basic needs.
- For luxury seekers, Summit and Overland deliver comfort.
- For performance lovers, SRT or Trackhawk are top picks.
- For off-road fans, Trailhawk is best.
Another tip: test drive different trims before deciding. Small changes in features can greatly affect the driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Fuel Economy For The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Fuel economy varies by engine. The V6 offers up to 26 mpg highway, while the Trackhawk’s supercharged V8 gets around 17 mpg.
Which Trim Is Best For Off-roading?
The Trailhawk is designed for off-road adventures, with specialized tires, suspension, and 4WD.
Does The Grand Cherokee Have Apple Carplay?
Yes, all 2018 models come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through the Uconnect infotainment system.
How Much Cargo Space Is Available?
The Grand Cherokee provides 36. 3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 68. 3 cubic feet with seats folded.
Where Can I Find Official Details On The 2018 Grand Cherokee?
Full specifications are available at the Jeep Official Site.
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers something for everyone, from everyday comfort to thrilling performance. Understanding each configuration helps you make a smarter choice, whether you need a reliable family vehicle or a powerful off-road SUV.
