The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, is available in 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive configurations and in 5 trims: Limited, Laredo, Laredo X, Overland and SRT8.
The Grand Cherokee retains Jeep’s famous off-road prowess while still offering numerous luxurious and technical improvements. It is a combination of comfort, on-road poise and off-road power.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $27,195.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 24.6 gallons (93 l) | MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy |
| Length: 189.8 in. (482 cm) | Wheel Base: 114.8 in. (291.5 cm) |
| Height: 68.1 in. (172.9 cm) | Width: 76.5 in. (194.3 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 4470 lbs (2027 kg) | Ground Clearance: 8.6 in. (21.8 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 35.1 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 24-Valve V6 DOHC | Displacement: 3.6 Liter |
| Horsepower: 290 HP | Max RPM: 6400 RPM |
| Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm | Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic |
| Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs) | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:Laredo X 4×2 | MSRP: $34,495; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Altitude 4×2 | MSRP: $35,795; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Limited 4×2 | MSRP: $36,795; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Overland 4×2 | MSRP: $39,895; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Overland Summit 4×2 | MSRP: $43,495; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Laredo 4×4 | MSRP: $29,195; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Altitude 4×4 | MSRP: $37,795; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Limited 4×4 | MSRP: $39,295; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Overland 4×4 | MSRP: $43,395; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:Overland Summit 4×4 | MSRP: $46,995; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:SRT8® 4×4 | MSRP: $61,160; MPG: 12 city / 18 hwy |
Engine & Performance
All trim levels except the SRT8 use a 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 engine that delivers 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. You can get 23 mpg on highway. The engine is mounted on a 5-speed automatic transmission, which enables the Cherokee to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds.
An optional 5.7L V8, 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque comes mounted on a 6-speed automatic transmission. The SRT8 model uses a 6.4L V8 produces 470 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The SRT8 is capable of goiong from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The 2012 Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,400 pounds when appropriately equipped.
Exterior
Among the key exterior features are the dual-pane panoramic sunroof with a power sliding glass, front panel, and an unchanging power sunshade glass panel in the rear. Exterior features include: automatic headlights, fog lamps, auto dimming rearview mirror and 17 inch alloy wheels.
The exterior is available in seven color coats including: white gold clear, true blue pearl, deep cherry red crystal, brilliant black crystal, bright silver metallic clear coat among others.
Interior
The Grand Cherokee features a stylish cabin with cleanly styled tight seams using high quality materials. The front seats give sufficient support and are very comfortable. The seats in the rear likewise provide comfort. The seats benefit from perfect cushioning and have ample leg and knee room.
You can get as much as 35 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which can be increased to 69 cubic feet when the seats are folded. Some of the features offered in the Grand Cherokee are: an infotainment system that comes with 30gb hard drive navigation system, adaptive cruise control unit, heated steering wheel, cooled vented front seats, cargo cover, rear seat DVD entertainment and UConnect wireless connectivity.
Safety & Reliability
The Grand Cherokee is fitted with many safety and security features for optimum safety when driving. All models have standard full length side curtain airbags, driver and passenger pelvic and thorax airbags. The safety is further pronounced by the high strength steel and door guard.
The Adaptive Cruise control and Warning control unit is also fitted in the Cherokee to make sure that you are out of danger when driving in the Grand Cherokee. For instance, the adaptive cruise control will reduce cruising speed automatically to keep a preset distance between the Cherokee and the vehicle ahead of it.
Other safety features include: front tow hooks, electronic stability control, child safety locks and traction control. The Grand Cherokee is backed by a 3-year or 36,000 mile basic warranty in addition to the 5-year or 100,000 mile warranty for the engine. This warranty is better than that of Ford’s powertrain cover.
Pros
- Legendary off-road capabilities.
- Enough rear-seat space.
- Luxury interior features.
- High tow rating.
- Available V8 power.
Cons
- Fussy optional navigation system.
- Poor fuel economy.
- Dated 5-speed transmission.
Competition
Overall, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is suitable for those looking for family SUVs. Its off-road and on-road capabilities make it an off-road SUV of choice to many.
The Grand Cherokee set the standard for the creation of the SUV market, among those who have entered the fray include the Chevrolet Traverse (MSRP $29,660; 17 city / 24 hwy), the Ford Explorer (MSRP $28,280; 18 city / 25 hwy), and the Toyota Highlander (MSRP $29,395; 18 city / 24 hwy).
Overall Rating
76 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee only gets better this year with the addition of the SRT8’s thundering HEMI V-8.”Car Connection
“The steering is accurate with good road feel and just enough power assist. Handling is reasonably car-like for an off-road-flavored SUV. Body lean is well controlled, though you have to slow down quite a bit before a fast turn.”Consumer Guide
“The Grand Cherokee is a pleasant, upscale vehicle. It has a supple and controlled ride, and handling is relatively agile.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“If you envision using your SUV for both “sport” and “utility,” the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is tough to beat. In the Snowbelt Jeep’s three 4WD systems provide needed security through all four seasons, while the Grand Cherokee’s 2WD system and its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) architecture provide a balance of handling and traction not (typically) available in front-wheel-drive crossovers.”KBB
“Available V8 power; high tow rating; upscale interior with many available luxury features; capable off-road prowess; outlandish SRT8 model…Somewhat limited cargo space; fussy optional navigation system.”Edmunds
