The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks 18 out of 28 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Redesigned last year, the Grand Cherokee is an excellent off-road vehicle with a luxurious interior, plenty of options and five strong engine choices. But it still can't match the rear-seat comfort or cargo capacity of others in its class. For an off-road SUV that performs better in those areas, consider the Ford Explorer.
"Rear-seat room and comfort may disappoint, and fuel economy with gasoline engines is poor on models we tested," says Consumer Guide. "But Grand Cherokee is solid, rides comfortably, has fine ergonomics, and is tenacious off-road. It's also competitively priced." The Grand Cherokee offers buyers a wide range of engine choices, including a diesel. Reviewers also like the passenger cabin's high-quality materials, which give the interior an upscale look. However, buyers with a lot of gear to haul may want to look elsewhere -- the Grand Cherokee has cargo capacity that doesn't match up to what the competition offers.
For 2009, the SUV features a new 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine along with new option packages. The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in four trims: the base Laredo, Limited, Overland and performance-minded SRT8. All are available in two- or four-wheel drive, with the exception of the SRT8, which comes only in 4WD. A V6 diesel engine is optional for Limited and Overland trims.
Grand-Cherokee Performance - 8.5 (Very Good)
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee excels at off-road handling and boasts plenty of power from its robust engine line-up. "With a throaty exhaust note from the big block HEMI V-8, the SUV delivers a powerful, precise and responsive performance," says the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "This fun-to-drive vehicle will make one wonder if it is a sports car or an SUV." However, buyers will pay a price at the pump for all that power. Continue with our full Grand Cherokee Performance Review to learn which of the many engine options may be right for you. continue
Grand-Cherokee Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)
Reviewers largely approve of the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee's classic exterior, which got a few modifications as part of last year's redesign. The Detroit News concludes that it's "a sharp looking vehicle. It's distinctively Jeep, with its seven-slotted grille stretched wider and round head lights added in the makeover." Continue with our full Grand Cherokee Exterior Review to learn how the SRT8 model's styling differs from the other trims. continue
Grand-Cherokee Interior - 7.8 (Good)
The newest Grand Cherokee's five-seat interior is even more attractive than previous models. 4-Wheel & Off-Road says, "On the inside, the vehicle's two-tone instrument panel features a new level of refinement with bright accents, a soft-touch surface and updated styling." However, uncomfortable rear seats and a small cargo area temper the praise. Continue with our Grand Cherokee Interior Review to learn about one of the SUV's standout options. continue
Grand-Cherokee Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee does extremely well in federal government crash tests. It also comes with plenty of safety features, including electronic stability control and traction control. Continue with our Grand Cherokee Safety Review to learn about the Grand Cherokee's safety equipment. continue
Grand-Cherokee Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is covered by a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our Grand Cherokee Reliability Review to learn about its powertrain warranty. continue
