The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out in the midsize SUV market for its blend of off-road ability, refined design, and flexible engine choices. Whether you want a daily commuter or a rugged adventure vehicle, this Jeep offers a unique mix of comfort and capability. But is it the right SUV for you? Let’s look closer at how the 2019 Grand Cherokee performs in real-world driving, what features set it apart, and where it fits compared to rivals.
Performance And Engine Options
Jeep gives you several engines for the 2019 Grand Cherokee, from practical to powerful. The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6 with 295 horsepower. It’s smooth for city driving and has enough power for highways. If you want more muscle, there’s a 5.7-liter V8 (360 hp), a 6.4-liter V8 in the SRT (475 hp), and the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the Trackhawk (707 hp). Each engine uses an 8-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly.
A rare option in this class is the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6. It offers strong torque and better fuel efficiency, making it a smart pick for towing or long road trips. For most drivers, the V6 gives a good balance of power and gas mileage. The V8s, especially in SRT and Trackhawk, deliver thrilling acceleration but burn more fuel.
Fuel Economy Data
| Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L V6 | 19 | 26 | 6,200 |
| 5.7L V8 | 14 | 22 | 7,200 |
| 6.4L V8 (SRT) | 13 | 19 | 7,200 |
| 6.2L V8 (Trackhawk) | 11 | 17 | 7,200 |
Insight: Many buyers overlook the diesel engine’s towing and fuel savings. Also, the SRT and Trackhawk models offer sports-car acceleration, but insurance and maintenance costs are much higher.
Interior Comfort And Features
Inside the Grand Cherokee, you’ll find a well-built cabin. Materials feel upscale, especially in Limited, Overland, and Summit trims, which offer leather, wood, and soft-touch details. The Uconnect infotainment system is one of the easiest to use, with a standard 7-inch screen (8.4-inch on higher trims), Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and quick response times.
Seating is supportive for both short and long trips. There’s plenty of headroom and legroom for adults in front and back.
The cargo area holds 36. 3 cubic feet with seats up, and over 68 cubic feet when folded.
That’s good, but some competitors offer a bit more space.
Interior Dimensions Comparison
| Model | Cargo Volume (cu ft) | Front Legroom (in) | Rear Legroom (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee | 36.3 | 40.3 | 38.6 |
| Toyota 4Runner | 47.2 | 41.7 | 32.9 |
| Ford Edge | 39.2 | 42.6 | 40.6 |
Insight: Many buyers miss that the Grand Cherokee’s rear seats recline and fold almost flat, making it easier to carry larger items than the numbers suggest.
Technology And Safety
The 2019 Grand Cherokee includes many modern tech features. Standard items cover Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add navigation, premium audio, and a panoramic sunroof. The Uconnect system’s voice controls work well, even for non-native speakers.
Jeep offers advanced safety options like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning. However, most of these are not standard on lower trims, which is common for this price range. The Grand Cherokee scored well in crash tests, but some rivals have more standard driver aids.
Safety Feature Availability
| Feature | Laredo | Limited | Overland | Summit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rearview Camera | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Blind-spot Monitoring | Optional | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Optional | Optional | Standard | Standard |
| Forward Collision Warning | Optional | Optional | Standard | Standard |
Off-road And Towing Capability
The Grand Cherokee is famous for its off-road performance. Jeep offers several 4WD systems, including Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II. Higher trims can add an air suspension for better ground clearance. The Trailhawk trim is made for off-road, with skid plates, all-terrain tires, and tow hooks.
Towing is another strong point. Properly equipped, the Grand Cherokee pulls up to 7,200 pounds—much more than most midsize SUVs. This makes it a solid choice for boats, campers, or trailers.
Non-obvious tip: Not all trims can tow the maximum. Check the specific model and engine before buying if you need high towing power.
Ride Quality And Driving Experience
On the road, the Grand Cherokee feels steady and quiet. It handles rough pavement well, and the cabin stays peaceful even at highway speeds.
The steering is light for city driving but gives good feedback on the highway.
One thing to note: the Grand Cherokee is heavier than many rivals, which helps on bumpy roads but can lower fuel economy. The SRT and Trackhawk models are firmer but much faster and more fun for car fans.
Pricing And Value
The 2019 Grand Cherokee’s price starts around $33,000 for the Laredo and can climb above $86,000 for the Trackhawk. Most buyers choose mid-level trims like Limited or Overland for their mix of luxury and value. Used models often hold value well, especially those with 4WD and popular options.
Common mistake: Some shoppers focus only on the base price and miss how options or higher trims quickly add thousands to the cost. Always compare the total price, not just the sticker.
Final Thoughts
The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a top pick for those who want real off-road skills and a comfortable, modern SUV. Its engine choices, tech features, and towing power stand out in a crowded market. It’s not the biggest or cheapest, but for drivers who need both city comfort and outdoor adventure, it’s hard to beat. For more details and owner feedback, visit the official Jeep website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Reliable Is The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The 2019 Grand Cherokee scores average in reliability. Regular maintenance is key.
Diesel and V8 engines may have higher repair costs over time.
Which Grand Cherokee Trim Is Best For Off-road?
The Trailhawk trim is best for off-road driving. It adds all-terrain tires, advanced 4WD, and extra protection underneath.
Is The 2019 Grand Cherokee Good For Families?
Yes. It offers roomy seating, good safety features, and easy-to-use tech.
However, it has only two rows no third-row option.
What Is The Maximum Towing Capacity?
With the right engine and equipment, the Grand Cherokee tows up to 7,200 pounds. Most V6 models tow less, so check before buying.
How Does The Grand Cherokee Compare To The Toyota 4runner?
The Grand Cherokee is more refined inside and offers more engine choices. The 4Runner has more cargo space and is better for extreme off-road trails.
Both are strong options, but your needs will decide which fits best.
