2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L: What's New At US News?

Hey guys, let's dive into the exciting world of the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and what the buzz is all about over at US News. If you're in the market for a spacious, capable, and seriously good-looking SUV, you've probably already got this bad boy on your radar. US News is a go-to for car reviews and rankings, so when they talk about a vehicle like the Grand Cherokee L, it's worth paying attention. We're going to break down what makes this three-row SUV a standout, focusing on its strengths, potential drawbacks, and why it consistently ranks high in its class. Whether you're a long-time Jeep fan or just exploring your options, we've got the lowdown on why the 2024 Grand Cherokee L is making waves and what you can expect when you check out the latest from US News.

Performance and Powertrain: Conquering Any Terrain

When we talk about the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, performance is always front and center. This SUV isn't just about looking good; it's built to perform, and that's a huge reason why it appeals to so many people. US News often highlights the robust engine options available, and for good reason. The standard engine is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, which delivers a solid 290 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. This engine is more than capable for everyday driving, hauling your family, or even a bit of off-roading. It's paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly, making for a comfortable ride whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets. But here's where it gets really interesting for the off-road enthusiasts: the available 5.7-liter HEMI V8. This beast cranks out 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, giving you that extra punch for towing or when you need serious grunt. US News definitely notes this V8 as a significant upgrade for those who demand more power and capability.

Beyond the engines, Jeep's legendary 4x4 systems are what truly set the Grand Cherokee L apart. You've got options like the Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and the top-tier Quadra-Drive II with an electronic limited-slip differential. These systems are designed to provide maximum traction in virtually any condition, from slippery roads to challenging off-road trails. If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle snow, mud, sand, or rocks, the Grand Cherokee L, especially in its Trailhawk trim, is a serious contender. US News often praises its impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles, as well as its ability to ford water, further cementing its off-road credentials. For those who need to tow, the V8 engine option allows for a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds, which is ample for boats, campers, or trailers. The combination of powerful engines, advanced 4x4 systems, and impressive towing capabilities makes the 2024 Grand Cherokee L a versatile powerhouse that can handle pretty much anything you throw at it. It's this blend of refinement for daily driving and rugged capability for adventure that consistently earns high marks in reviews.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Premium Experience

Alright, let's talk about the inside of the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. This is where the 'L' really shines, guys. Unlike its two-row counterpart, the 'L' offers a full-fledged three-row seating configuration, making it a fantastic option for larger families or anyone who frequently carries extra passengers. US News consistently praises the Grand Cherokee L for its spacious and comfortable cabin, and it's easy to see why. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a sense of premium quality. The materials used throughout the cabin are top-notch, with soft-touch surfaces, available Nappa leather upholstery, and tasteful wood or metal accents depending on the trim level. It really feels like you're driving something much more expensive than it is, which is always a win in my book.

The first two rows offer generous legroom and headroom, ensuring that even adults can ride comfortably on longer journeys. But the real surprise is the third row. While many three-row SUVs have a cramped third row that's best left for kids, the Grand Cherokee L actually provides a usable space for adults, making it a true seven- (or six- with captain's chairs) passenger vehicle. This is a massive selling point, and US News definitely highlights this practicality. Getting into the third row is also relatively easy, thanks to the sliding and folding second-row seats.

When it comes to technology, Jeep hasn't skimped here either. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive. Standard on most trims is a 8.4-inch touchscreen display, but you can upgrade to a larger, 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 system. This system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is a huge convenience. No more fumbling with cords! It also offers built-in navigation, voice command, and a Wi-Fi hotspot capability. US News usually commends Jeep's Uconnect system for its user-friendliness and sharp graphics. Plus, there are plenty of USB ports scattered throughout the cabin, so everyone can keep their devices charged. For audiophiles, the available Alpine or McIntosh premium sound systems deliver an immersive listening experience. And let's not forget about the driver-assistance features. The 2024 Grand Cherokee L comes with a suite of standard safety tech, including forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, and even night vision, making this SUV as safe as it is luxurious. The combination of a spacious, upscale interior and cutting-edge tech and safety features makes the Grand Cherokee L a truly compelling package that excels in everyday usability and long-haul comfort.

Trim Levels and Value: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Choosing the right 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L trim level can feel a bit overwhelming, but it's also where you can really tailor the SUV to your specific needs and budget. US News often does a great job of breaking down the value proposition for each trim, and we're going to do the same. Jeep offers the Grand Cherokee L in several well-appointed trims, typically starting with the Laredo, moving up through the Altitude, Limited, Overland, and reaching the pinnacle with the Summit. For the serious off-roaders, there's also the Trailhawk trim, which is essentially a Summit with enhanced off-road prowess.

The Laredo is the entry-level model, but don't let that fool you. It still comes with a good amount of standard equipment, including the 3.6L V6 engine, 18-inch wheels, LED lighting, the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a decent package of driver-assistance features. It's a solid choice if you want the Grand Cherokee L's core attributes without breaking the bank.

The Altitude package typically adds some styling enhancements, like gloss-black exterior accents and larger 20-inch wheels, along with some interior upgrades. It's for those who want a bit more visual flair.

Stepping up to the Limited trim, you start getting into more luxurious territory. This is often where you'll find features like leather-trimmed seats, heated front and second-row seats, a power liftgate, and more advanced safety features. US News frequently points to the Limited as a great balance of features and price, offering a significant step up in comfort and convenience.

The Overland trim really dials up the luxury. Think premium leather, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and more sophisticated interior trim. It also often comes with upgraded off-road capability features like the Quadra-Trac II 4x4 system and the Selec-Terrain traction management system. This is for those who want a more refined experience both on and off the pavement.

At the top of the range, we have the Summit and Trailhawk. The Summit is the epitome of luxury, offering the plushest materials, advanced comfort features, and the most sophisticated technology. It's designed for those who want the absolute best. The Trailhawk, on the other hand, is a specialized off-road variant. It typically includes all the goodies from the Overland or Summit but adds unique off-road hardware like rugged tires, skid plates, an electronic limited-slip differential, and often a disconnecting front sway bar for maximum articulation. US News recognizes the Trailhawk as one of the most capable off-road SUVs you can buy in its class.

When considering value, US News often looks at the total cost of ownership, resale value, and the amount of features you get for the money. The Grand Cherokee L generally scores well in these areas. While it might have a higher starting price than some rivals, the combination of its standard V6, available V8, exceptional 4x4 capability, and upscale interior often makes it a compelling value proposition. The ability to choose a trim that perfectly matches your lifestyle, whether it's for family road trips or challenging weekend adventures, is a key factor in its strong showing in reviews. Ultimately, there's a Grand Cherokee L for almost everyone, and finding that sweet spot between features, performance, and price is part of the fun.

Fuel Economy and Reliability: Things to Consider

Now, let's get real, guys. When you're looking at a big, capable SUV like the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, fuel economy is definitely something to consider. It's not going to be a Prius, that's for sure, but it's important to know what you're getting into. US News typically provides EPA estimates, and they give us a good benchmark. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine with the 8-speed automatic transmission is rated at an estimated 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for the 4x2 models. If you opt for the more capable 4x4 system, those numbers dip slightly to around 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. These figures are pretty standard for a vehicle in this class – a large, three-row SUV with a powerful V6 engine. It’s competitive, but it’s definitely not the most fuel-efficient option out there.

Now, if you decide to go for the more powerful 5.7-liter HEMI V8, you're going to see a noticeable drop in fuel economy. The EPA estimates for the V8 are typically around 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for 4x2 models, and slightly less for 4x4 versions. This is the trade-off for that extra horsepower and towing capability. If fuel efficiency is your absolute top priority, you might want to stick with the V6 or consider a different type of vehicle altogether. However, for many buyers of the Grand Cherokee L, the utility and capability offered by these powertrains outweigh the higher fuel costs.

When it comes to reliability, this is an area where US News and other automotive authorities often provide valuable insights based on owner surveys and long-term testing. Historically, Jeep's reliability ratings have been a bit of a mixed bag. However, the Grand Cherokee platform has generally been quite solid in recent years, especially with the current generation. For the 2024 model year, Jeep aims to continue this trend. While official long-term reliability data for the exact 2024 models isn't usually available until they've been on the road for a while, industry expectations are generally positive based on the previous year's performance and Jeep's ongoing improvements. It's always a good idea to check resources like Consumer Reports or J.D. Power for the latest reliability scores closer to when you're making a purchase decision. They often use data from previous model years to predict reliability for newer ones.

Jeep does offer a standard 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This provides a decent level of peace of mind for new buyers. Some critics and reviewers, including those contributing to US News, might point out that while the mechanical reliability has improved, some of the electronic systems can occasionally be a source of minor issues in vehicles across the automotive spectrum, including Jeep products. However, these are usually software glitches or minor bugs rather than major mechanical failures. Overall, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is expected to offer a competitive level of reliability for its segment. The key takeaway here is that while fuel economy is average for its class, and reliability is generally good but worth monitoring through independent sources, the overall package of capability, comfort, and features makes it a strong contender. Just be prepared for those V8 fuel bills if you opt for the extra power!

The Verdict: Is the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Right for You?

So, after diving deep into the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, what's the final word? According to the consensus from outlets like US News, this SUV is a serious contender in the crowded three-row SUV market. It masterfully blends Jeep's legendary off-road prowess with a level of on-road refinement and luxury that appeals to a broad range of buyers. If you're looking for a vehicle that can genuinely handle a family road trip, a daily commute, and then tackle some serious trails on the weekend, the Grand Cherokee L is designed precisely for that.

Its strengths are undeniable: impressive capability thanks to robust 4x4 systems and powerful engine options (especially the V8 for towing and grunt), a spacious and upscale interior that offers genuinely usable third-row seating, and a cutting-edge technology suite with the user-friendly Uconnect system. The variety of trim levels also means you can find a Grand Cherokee L that fits your budget and desired level of luxury, from the well-equipped Laredo to the ultra-luxurious Summit.

However, it's not without its considerations. The fuel economy, particularly with the V8 engine, is not its strongest suit, which is expected for a vehicle of its size and capability. While reliability is generally good and improving, it's always wise to check the latest independent ratings. The price point can also climb quickly as you move up the trim levels and add options, so careful configuration is key.

Ultimately, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is an excellent choice for:

• Families needing more space: The three-row layout is a game-changer.
• Adventure seekers: Its off-road capabilities are class-leading.
• Those who appreciate luxury and tech: The interior appointments and infotainment are top-notch.
• Anyone who needs to tow: The V8 option offers significant towing capacity.

If you prioritize capability, comfort, and versatility in a large SUV, and you don't mind the fuel consumption that comes with it, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L should absolutely be on your shortlist. US News and other reviewers agree: it’s a highly competent and compelling package that offers a great deal of value and enjoyment for drivers and their passengers. It truly is a do-it-all SUV that lives up to the Jeep legacy while embracing modern demands. So, go check one out – you won't be disappointed!