The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L supplies generous room for passengers in all three rows, and it outmatches competitors by a significant margin with its available off-road and towing capabilities. But there are problems with its on-road demeanor, and that makes the Grand Cherokee L a less livable three-row SUV than some of its rivals.Read full review
Brian Wong has worked in the automotive industry since 2010, writing over 1,000 car-related articles and testing and reviewing hundreds of vehicles over the course of career. Brian is a senior reviews editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Cars.com, Motor Authority and Green Car Reports. Brian has also been featured on MotorWeek as an expert for several car comparisons. He loves convertibles (the smaller the better) and hates paying for parking, so Los Angeles is both the right and wrong city for him.
Ryan ZumMallen has worked in the automotive industry since 2012. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Ryan has also contributed to Road & Track, Autoweek, Trucks.com and more. In 2019, Ryan published his first book, Slow Car Fast, on the millennial generation and its unique take on modern car culture.
Pros
Impressive list of standard and optional advanced driver aids
Classy interior design with roomy seating
Better off-road capability than most three-row SUVs
Stout towing capacity
Cons
Base V6 engine provides underwhelming acceleration
Confusing button layout
Poor outward visibility
What's new
Minor changes to standard and optional equipment availability
Part of the first Grand Cherokee L generation introduced for 2021
Overview
Jeep hasn't traditionally had much to offer shoppers interested in a three-row SUV but that's changed the past couple of years with the introduction of the big-daddy Wagoneer and the Grand Cherokee L. The Grand Cherokee L is about a foot longer than the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, and Jeep has put that space to use by adding a third-row seat. If you like the idea of driving an adventurous SUV that can also seat up to seven people, the 2023 Grand Cherokee L could be your vehicle.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
We like the Grand Cherokee L and think it's a respectable choice for a three-row SUV, especially if you plan on occasionally heading off pavement or towing a big trailer. But there are also some reasons why we rank rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride and Volkswagen Atlas higher overall. Scroll down to see more of our test team's full evaluation of the Grand Cherokee L.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Average
7.5
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
Our rating for the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is based on our experience driving the car at our test track and under real world conditions.
How does the Grand Cherokee L drive? We tested the Grand Cherokee L with its base 3.6-liter V6 engine (Jeep offers its muscular 5.7-liter V8 engine in top trims). The V6 is a likable enough engine on its own, but it often feels overworked in a vehicle this big. At Edmunds' test track, our test vehicle accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds, which is slow for the class. We also have reservations about the light, loose steering feel and lack of feedback from the brake pedal. Upsides include smooth shifts through all eight gears of the automatic transmission that contribute to a comfortable and relaxed driving experience.
Of course, this is a Jeep. And though there's only so much capability you can have with a three-row SUV that's 17 feet long, the Grand Cherokee makes the most of what it has. The four-wheel-drive system helps make the most out of slippery situations. This isn't quite a Range Rover, but it'll get you farther into the woods than most other seven-passenger SUVs.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the Grand Cherokee L? Comfort is a strong suit of the Grand Cherokee L. Its long wheelbase and optional air suspension create a cushy ride, and bumps in the road are absorbed before they make it to passengers inside. It does this without feeling floaty or losing its composure. The leather seats in our Summit test vehicle also proved impressive, with an available massage function in the front row and pleasing comfort in the second and third rows.
This big SUV can't keep noise out of the cabin the way it does with bumps in the road, however. We noticed more wind noise at highway speeds than we expect from this class, and the V6 engine was loud and sounded unpleasant when pushed.
Interior
7/10
How’s the interior? There is loads of space inside the Grand Cherokee L. Drivers of all sizes should fit in the front, and there's comfortable space for passengers up to 6 feet tall in both the second and third rows. Unfortunately it's a bit of a hike to get inside due to the vehicle's tall ride height, though a helpful tilt-and-slide second row allows for easy access to the third-row seating.
Two big red flags occur up front. First, the controls are swathed in glossy piano black plastic. It easily shows grease smudges and feels more like economy car equipment to the touch. Second, dials are small and hard to grab, while buttons are positioned at strange angles or blocked completely by other controls, which makes operation a frustrating experience. We also noted poor forward visibility because of the Jeep's protruding hood, large pillars, and mass of cameras and radar equipment that take up available windshield space.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $10,896 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $10,896 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Summit Reserve trim.
How’s the tech? The Grand Cherokee L is available with Uconnect 5, the latest infotainment system from parent company Stellantis. It has crisp graphics, and the available integrated navigation system provides helpful turn-by-turn route instructions. Unfortunately, the screen is angled upward and easily reflects glare from direct sunlight. Our test vehicle had the optional 19-speaker McIntosh surround-sound system, but we were left underwhelmed, especially considering the system's cost.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration comes standard, though our test vehicle dropped a call while using CarPlay and the system disconnected two other times without warning. That doesn't often happen in other vehicles with the same technology. We do like the Grand Cherokee L's advanced driver aids. The adaptive cruise control brakes and accelerates smoothly, for instance, and the lane keeping system works great to keep this big SUV where it should be.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? The Grand Cherokee L trails some three-row rivals such as the Kia Telluride and Volkswagen Atlas in maximum cargo capacity. Its 17.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row is usable enough for everyday tasks, but the load floor is rather high. Storage for small items is ample, with plenty of cupholders and spacious center console bins in the first and second rows. But we were a bit puzzled why our test vehicle did not have child seat anchors in the third-row cushions.
The Grand Cherokee L offers strong towing capability. It easily outpaces rivals with a 6,200-pound maximum capacity with the V6 and 7,200 pounds with the V8.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
6.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The Grand Cherokee L with 4WD and V6 engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined, which is average for a midsize three-row SUV. Our test vehicle returned 20.5 mpg on our standardized evaluation route, indicating the EPA estimate should be achievable in real-world driving. Opt for the V8, though, and you take a hit. It's 4WD only and has an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined.
Value
6.5/10
Is the Grand Cherokee L a good value? Jeep aimed to position the Grand Cherokee L as an every person's SUV with features reserved for luxury vehicles. But instead, it's priced too much like a luxury vehicle. The Grand Cherokee L has a higher starting price than its closest rivals, and it only includes or offers its finest features at more than what you'd pay for a comparable Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot. In those higher trims, the Grand Cherokee L is essentially a luxury SUV — a distinction that it isn't quite cut out for.
We found several issues with the build quality of our test vehicle, whether it was cheap-feeling plastic or an entire center tunnel panel that couldn't withstand a light stress test. The cabin is also awash with glossy piano black surfaces that smudge and give off a glare in sunlight.
Wildcard
8/10
Anything wearing a Jeep badge comes with style and charisma. However, in the Grand Cherokee L, it's style and charisma tailored to a very specific kind of owner. This SUV excels in towing and off-road ability, particularly when equipped with the large (and costly) V8 engine. Lower trim levels, however, don't exhibit the same kind of bravado and lack the user-friendliness that we expect from vehicles in this class. It's big, it's brash, it's a Jeep. But that doesn't make it a great family vehicle.
Which Grand Cherokee L does Edmunds recommend?
Our choice in the lineup is the Limited trim. The Grand Cherokee L's trims get expensive quickly, but the Limited hits the sweet spot of getting you a robust set of standard features list at a reasonable price.
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
TL;DR-Mom loves it, Dad loves it, the kids love it.
For those who want the full version, here we go.
Mom and Dads who need the 3rd row but don’t want to drop $85k on a bloated Tahoe or, and more importantly, can’t bring themselves down to the minivan, hear me! Btw if you’re reading this and don’t have kids get out of here, why are you even here? The regular grand Cherokee will haul your … dogs just fine, this is ours.
We had a 2018 grand Cherokee from our 1 child days, back when one kids crap could fit into anything. Fast forward to today, the crotch goblins have doubled and so has the required supplies. One faces forward and can grab the back of my neck while I’m driving. The other one faces backwards so I can’t see what the heck it’s doing, but it’s usually trying to choke on something. Add my tired (but still beautiful) wife to the passenger seat, and it’s a tight ride.
We rented a 2023 Durango R/T for a week and took a road trip to Disneyland, because we apparently hate our sanity. The Durango was a godsend (I swear I’m gonna get to the Jeep). All the room we could ever need. The oldest was banished to the 3rd row, the 2nd row captains chairs allowed my wife to comfortably sit in the back and soothe the demon spawn. And there was plenty of room for all the junk that had to come with. It was amazing. We got back home and put the car seats back in the 2018. The next day we went car hunting. Once you have a taste of the 6 year old not being within its arms reach you can’t go back.
Durango was #1 on our list, but the Kia Telluride had better reviews. Drove the Kia, felt small and cheap. It felt like it was a minivan pretending not to be a minivan. I don’t know where all the hype came from, I didn’t see it. Especially when I got torque steer during the test drive (not insulting intelligence, but that’s when you give a front wheel drive car the beans and it pulls to the right). You want $50k for a front wheel drive imposter SUV? Nah
We have a Jeep. We like the Jeep. Jeep saved wife’s life when she got t-boned. Let’s go look at a Jeep.
We made it. Enter the 2023 Grand Cherokee L. There was one Jeep with 2nd row bucket seats (wife only wanted the bucket seat). It’s a limited 4x4 in a blackish browish green kinda color. It’s actually beautiful. And inside is even better. 3rd row for permanent exhale for the 6 year old. Heck, I, a 6-00 200lbs man fit comfortably. Baby cam to watch the other terrorist. 10 inch TVs in the back of the front row seats that you can monitor on the whatever inch gigantic screen up front. 4x4 so I still feel like a man, and can actually go places with decent ground clearance. When it’s not in 4wd, it’s rear wheel drive, like god intended. The interior is just beautiful, and it’s comfortable to drive. No, it’s not gonna win any races, if you want speed get the Durango, which isn’t even that fast anyways. Your speed days are done regardless, so who cares. It still gets up and goes better than a 4Runner so good there.
I’ve put a few hundred miles on it, so far none of the day 1/week 1 problems. I love this Jeep, I think they nailed it. I’ll do an update in 6 months or so, or if any problems arise.
Thanks for reading my 1700 word wish.com version of Ted talk.
2023 Jeep GC L Summit Reserve V8 is terrific
5 out of 5 stars
Cap’n Jack, 08/22/2023
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
Wow
Fantastic vehicle. Did not have the issues others posted about. Currently 5000+ miles on her. Very hesitant after reading posts here but our family is so glad we did. We traded in a 2021 BMW M50i which was a nightmare to get into the third row. Hit the wrong button and you’re in a Major waiting game. Jeeps system is much better. V8 is a must. We drove the six cylinder and it’s … underwhelming at best. Love the night vision for deer in PA. McIntosh system is terrific. Massage seats are so much better than the BMW and Mercedes we owned before it. Ours is fully loaded with exception of rear entertainment and high alt pkg. Factory running boards look and work great. Wireless charging of iPhone works great. BMW’s was dismal. We get many compliments on this Summit reserve model. The only thing we miss are heated and cooled cup holders & soft close doors.
Would love to see the hybrid power train next in this vehicle. Highly recommend.
Junk Jeep
1 out of 5 stars
Dude, 06/26/2023
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
The first one I bought had to be returned. It was an electrical system nightmare. The first 2k miles of lights going out on the dash. Alert systems alerting at ghosts...ect... The SECOND one (that's right, they gave me a brand new one because the first was such a nightmare), it has been in for service 6 times in the 1st 25k. Similar electronic issues. Glitches, engine lights coming on, … screens going out, ect... I would recommend NOT ever buying this vehicle. They are very shiny and cool looking with lots of bells and whistles, however they are not reliable.
Ultimate Jeep
5 out of 5 stars
JRS, 03/19/2023
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
After over 3300 miles and a major road trip I have to say this has been a flawless vehicle. Drives nice, features of the Summit reserve are spectacular. Mine has the V-8 which I would recommend if 18 mpg doesn't bother you as the power is just right and the V6 reviews show a lack of power and towing capability . The trim is high end, the conveniences especially the driver assist … features with adaptive cruise, massaging 12 way adjustable seats were great on my road trip. Some of the reviews I read gave me some caution, but I've not experienced ANY issues, and I have almost all options available. Handling is excellent. Someone mentioned loose steering, but I find that hard to believe as it's firm and tight. Lighting is excellent at night, night vision is a nice feature, and visibility is good, Climate controls are nice and easily adjusted from either the buttons, or screen. This is a technology loaded vehicle so don't expect to learn it over night and if fingerprints on your screens bother you, might want to buy something from the old days. It will amaze you on what it can do after time. So many menus, and selectable features to figure out may be frustrating at first but after learning them, you will love it. One small thing I love is mine didn't have that stupid start/stop function, which in my Cadillac I had to disable every start as it's annoying. Seating is excellent and plenty of room. The McIntosh radio is excellent upgrade. Would I recommend this vehicle, absolutely but be patient on the learning what it can do.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review | A Long Overdue Three-Row Redesign of Jeep's Popular Midsize SUV
NOTE: This video is about the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, but since the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most versatile SUVs on the market. The Grand Cherokee not only is one of the more capable off-road SUVs, but it also has the space and comfort that buyers covet from a midsize SUV. Alas, the decade-old design has shown its age, and the Grand Cherokee has been surpassed by newcomers including the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. That… all changes with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, as Jeep is rolling out a full redesign of its popular midsize SUV. The first version to come off the line is the three-row Grand Cherokee L. Travis Langness from Edmunds covers what's new, what isn't, and what you should know about the newly redesigned 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L.
Since it debuted, the Kia Telluride has been one of Edmunds' top picks for a three-row SUV. It boasts an upscale and roomy cabin, pleasing comfort and appealing value for your money. The Telluride is more comfortable and refined than Grand Cherokee L but it's not as capable off-road. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Kia Telluride here.
You might want to consider the Volkswagen Atlas if you prioritize a spacious cabin and secure handling. Its third row in particular is spacious if you will be using it often. We strongly recommend the V6 engine, which isn't available at the base trim levels, so it can get pricier than starting price would suggest. Like the others mentioned here, it won't hold a candle to the Grand Cherokee L off-road. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Volkswagen Atlas here.
The new Honda Pilot is a comfortable and well-rounded midsize three-row SUV. While styling is subjective, we think the Grand Cherokee L has more presence than the stalkier Honda. The Pilot's improved all-wheel-drive system is good for very light off-roading, but for anything more challenging than a dirt road, the Grand Cherokee L's ground clearance makes it vastly superior.
Ever wish your Jeep Grand Cherokee came with a third row? Or that it could store more stuff on the way to the lake, tailgate or airport? Great news: Jeep will now sell you a different yet staggeringly similar vehicle. The Grand Cherokee L comes with a 121.7-inch wheelbase, allowing for a third row and the same suite of features buyers enjoy on the Grand Cherokee.
Does that come with trade-offs? Sure! We think the V6 engine is a little underwhelming and outward visibility is poor, but the SUV remains one of the more off-road capable in the category. Don't expect major changes for the 2023 model year given the vehicle's relative newness — the L was introduced in 2021 and the Grand Cherokee was recently redesigned.
And it is a stout category. The Grand Cherokee L faces off against the Edmunds Top Rated SUV, the Kia Telluride, and other tough customers including the Hyundai Palisade and the Honda Pilot. Jeep added optional technology packages for the 2022 model year, and while there were whispers of a Trailhawk trim for 2023 they've remained just that — whispers.
Edmunds says
We like the Grand Cherokee L's interior styling and towing capacity, but without some upgrades to make it more livable day to day, it's destined to sit at the back of the pack in a tough category.
FAQ
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee L a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 Grand Cherokee L both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.5 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 Grand Cherokee L gets an average rating of 3 stars out of 5 (based on 31 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Grand Cherokee L has 17.2 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Jeep Grand Cherokee L. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L:
Minor changes to standard and optional equipment availability
Part of the first Grand Cherokee L generation introduced for 2021
To determine whether the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Grand Cherokee L. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Grand Cherokee L's 3-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 Grand Cherokee L and gave it a 7.5 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 Grand Cherokee L gets an average rating of 3 stars out of 5 (based on 31 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 Grand Cherokee L is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L?
The least-expensive 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $41,535.
Other versions include:
Laredo 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $41,535
Laredo X 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $42,035
Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $43,535
Laredo X 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $44,035
Altitude 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $46,140
Altitude X 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $46,640
Altitude 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $48,140
Altitude X 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $48,640
Limited 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $50,230
Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $52,230
Overland 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $60,195
Overland 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $62,195
Summit 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $64,460
Summit 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $66,460
Summit Reserve 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $70,940
What are the different models of Jeep Grand Cherokee L?
If you're interested in the Jeep Grand Cherokee L, the next question is, which Grand Cherokee L model is right for you? Grand Cherokee L variants include Laredo 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), Laredo X 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A), Laredo 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A), and Laredo X 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A). For a full list of Grand Cherokee L models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more