The New 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee in Bismarck: Performance and Handling

Posted at Tue, Jun 5, 2018 11:45 AM

Throughout our 3-part series on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, we've taken a close look at the Design + Styling, the Safety + Security, and now the Performance + Handling.

Come along for the ride as we discover what this powerful SUV has to offer in North Dakota.

The Best SUV To Buy

With the Highest Model Loyalty in the Midsize SUV Segment for 3 consecutive years (IHS Markit), the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee can haul you, your family, and your gear up a mountain while still offering a touch of luxury.

Engine Options

Offered in a handful of models, the Grand Cherokee has five available engines:

295-horsepower 3.6 liter V-6
360-horsepower 5.7 liter V-8
240-horsepower 3.0 liter turbodiesel with 420 lb.-ft of torque
475-horspower 6.4 liter V-8 (SRT model)
Supercharged V-8 (Trackhawk model)

No matter which you choose – the unique diesel engine for your SUV, the supercharged Trackhawk, or any of the others – all engine options have an 8-speed automatic transmission.

These powertrains and available 4WD systems all boast smooth handling and riding, and there's a model for every need – off the road adventure, zooming across the North Dakota highway, or cruising down the Bismarck streets.

Handling Finesse

According to the Car Connection, the Grand Cherokee offers the best and most refined steering, handling, and road manners among its class. Although a powerful vehicle, it rides like a crossover with quick steering.

Experience a range of moderate to impressive off-road capability with the various model options and available systems:

Quadra-Trac I – All 4WD systems start with the Quadra-Trac 1 and its locking center differential. While it's not idea for off-roading due to a lack of low-range gearing, it's a solid option for drivers who don't go off-road and are looking for dependable traction.
Quadra-Trac II – this system offers a two-speed transfer case for low-range gearing, so you'll be better off when you're exploring off the beaten path. Its hill-start assist and hill-descent control will keep you in complete control behind the wheel, and the rear electronic limited-slip differential ensures that you'll also have a grip on the rocky terrain.
Selec-Terrain – This system, along with an off-road package, is what gives the Grand Cherokee Jeep's Trail Rated badge. Available on both the Quadra-Trac I and II, the various modes – auto, sand, mud, snow, and rock – optimize your vehicle for peak performance over any terrain.

If speed is your thing, the new Trackhawk is the quickest ever, charging off from 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds. Just behind it in speed is luxurious SRT with a 4.3 second 0-60 time.

Towing Power + Gas Mileage

You'll move a lot with the new Grand Cherokee, with the V-6 maxing out at 6,200 pounds and pulling up to 7,200 with the 5.7 liter, 6.4, and 6.2 liter V-8s.

Fuel economy begins at 19 mpg city / 26 highway / 21 combined on the V-6 rear-wheel drive, and the diesel option remains economical at a combined 25 mpg.