Jeep Grand Cherokee No Longer Available With HEMI V8
Completely redesigned last year, the two-row Jeep Grand Cherokee initially returned for 2023 with an available 5.7-litre HEMI V8 (357 hp, 390 lb-ft.), but that didn’t last long as Jeep has quietly axed the option.
All 2023 Grand Cherokee models now come with the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 (293 hp, 257 lb-ft.), even the top-line Summit Reserve exceeding $80,000. In order to help drivers save 3.2 L/100 km, Jeep is sacrificing 64 hp and more importantly 133 lb-ft. of torque.
- Also: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe: A Light Shade of Green
- Also: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L: Living in the Wagoneer's Massive Shadow
Those who insist on having the HEMI V8 must turn to the larger Grand Cherokee L in Overland, Summit or Summit Reserve trim and spend an extra $3,695. However, not all families need three rows of seats.
Alternatively, Jeep will direct Grand Cherokee customers looking for enhanced performance (and better fuel economy) to the 4xe plug-in hybrid variant, whose turbocharged four-cylinder engine pairs with an electric motor to deliver 375 hp and 470 lb-ft. of torque. A 17.3kWh battery feeds the latter and supplies up to 42 km of zero-emission range. In hybrid mode, average fuel consumption is rated at 10 L/100 km.
The problem is that the Grand Cherokee 4xe is approximately $10,000 more expensive than a conventionally powered model depending on the trim level. And unlike the Wrangler 4xe, it’s priced way out of EV rebate territory.
By the way, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk can only be had with the plug-in hybrid powertrain now. As for towing, maximum capacity is limited at 6,000 pounds, whereas the 3.6-litre V6 and 5.7-litre V8 engines can tow up to 6,200 pounds and 7,200 pounds, respectively.
It remains to be seen if and when Stellantis’ new turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine known as “Hurricane” will join the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup. No official announcement has been made yet.