Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV / Full-size SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking off-road capability and towing prowess, luxury SUV buyers.
Competitors 2012:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon, Land Rover LR4, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class
Feature 1:
Robust off-road capability with available advanced 4x4 systems.
Feature 2:
Comfortable and refined interior with premium materials.
Feature 3:
Powerful engine options, including the legendary HEMI V8.
Feature 4:
Advanced Uconnect infotainment system (available).
Feature 5:
Spacious cabin and significant cargo capacity.
Powertrain:
Engine (3.6L Pentastar V6, 5.7L HEMI V8), Transmission (5-speed Automatic W5A580), Drivetrain (2WD, 4WD systems including Quadra-Trac II, Quadra-Drive II)
Chassis:
Suspension (Independent Front/Rear), Brakes (ABS, Electronic Stability Control), Steering (Power Steering), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Lighting, Fuses & Relays, Instrument Cluster, Gauges, Warning Indicators, Power Outlets
Interior Features:
Seating, Climate Control (HVAC), Audio System, Uconnect Infotainment, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors, Seats), Navigation System
Exterior Features:
Doors, Windows, Mirrors, Wipers, Washers, Exterior Lighting, Sunroof/Moonroof, Towing & Trailering
Operation:
Starting and Operating the Vehicle, Driving Techniques, Gear Selection, Parking, Cruise Control Operation
Maintenance:
Fluid Checks and Top-offs (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Washer Fluid), Tire Pressure Checks, Wiper Blade Replacement, Bulb Replacement, Fuse Replacement, Air Filter Replacement (Cabin & Engine)
Safety Features:
Seat Belt Operation, Airbag System Information, Child Restraint System (LATCH) Installation, Door Lock Operation, Security System
Troubleshooting:
Understanding Dashboard Warning Lights and Messages, Basic Troubleshooting Steps for Common Issues
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance, operation, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic codes.
Format Detail:
Printed softcover booklet.
Quality:
High-quality paper with clear text and diagrams.
Binding:
Saddle-stitched or perfect bound.
Paper Type:
Durable, glossy paper suitable for automotive environments.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (W5A580)
Standard Drivetrain:
RWD (Standard), 4WD available
Optional Drivetrain:
4WD (Quadra-Trac II, Quadra-Drive II)
Transmission Features:
Auto-Stick manual shifting mode, Tow/Haul mode
Wheelbase:
114.7 inches (2913 mm)
Length:
189.8 inches (4821 mm)
Width:
76.5 inches (1943 mm)
Height:
69.9 inches (1775 mm)
Passenger Volume:
105.1 cu. ft. (2976 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
N/A (typically 2-row configuration or optional 3rd row with reduced cargo)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
35.1 cu. ft. (994 L) (with 2-row seating)
Cargo Volume Max:
68.7 cu. ft. (1945 L) (with 2-row seating, seats folded)
Curb Weight Min:
4,685 lbs (2125 kg) (3.6L RWD)
Curb Weight Max:
5,074 lbs (2302 kg) (5.7L HEMI 4WD)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 7,400 lbs (3356 kg)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 Stars (for 2012 model year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2012 model year)
Active Safety 1:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Active Safety 2:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Active Safety 3:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Active Safety 4:
Trailer Sway Control
Active Safety 5:
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
Active Safety 6:
Hill Descent Control (HDC) (on 4WD models)
Passive Safety 1:
Advanced Multistage Front Airbags
Passive Safety 2:
Supplemental Side-Curtain Front and Rear Airbags
Passive Safety 3:
Supplemental Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
Passive Safety 4:
Active Head Restraints
Passive Safety 5:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) System
Infotainment System:
Uconnect System (available with touch screen, voice command, Bluetooth, USB, SD card reader).
Navigation:
Optional GPS Navigation System.
Assistance 1:
ParkView Rear Back Up Camera (available)
Assistance 2:
ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist (available)
Assistance 3:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (available)
Assistance 4:
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) (available)
Assistance 5:
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Path Detection (RCP) (available)
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth streaming audio and hands-free calling, USB port for device charging and media playback.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 8,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Engine Air Filter: Inspect every 16,000 miles, replace as needed. Cabin Air Filter: Inspect every 16,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.6L Pentastar V6: 100,000 miles. 5.7L HEMI V8: 100,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Inspect fluid condition periodically. Replacement interval typically 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil (API SN certified).
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.6L V6: 6.0 quarts (5.7 Liters). 5.7L V8: 7.0 quarts (6.6 Liters).
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT or IAT coolant is NOT recommended.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Issue 1:
Minor electrical gremlins and sensor issues can occur.
Issue 2:
Some reports of transmission shift quality issues, often resolved with software updates or fluid service.
Issue 3:
Water pump leaks can occur, particularly on the 3.6L Pentastar.
Issue 4:
Potential for exhaust manifold cracks on the 5.7L HEMI V8 over time.
Brand Origin:
Jeep brand founded in 1941, known for ruggedness and off-road capability.
Grand Cherokee Introduction:
First introduced in 1993 as a more luxurious and comfortable alternative to the Cherokee (XJ).
Wk2 Generation Significance:
The WK2 generation (launched for 2011) represented a significant redesign, moving to a unibody platform with improved on-road manners and luxury appointments while retaining off-road prowess.
Assembly Location:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA
Award 1:
IIHS Top Safety Pick (2012)
Award 2:
Often praised for its blend of luxury, capability, and technology within its segment.
Expert Reviews Summary:
Generally positive reviews highlighting its comfortable ride, capable powertrains, and upscale interior for its class.