Quick Take: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

Car shoppers spend plenty of time contemplating the one vehicle that is perfect for their needs. In many cases, the vehicle needs to be fuel-efficient, have plenty of space for the family, deliver a high level of performance, and possess the ability to venture off the beaten path with ease. The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe can do all of that and more, having a plug-in hybrid powertrain, a roomy midsize SUV bodystyle, plenty of torque, and in the case of the Trailhawk version we drove, dedicated off-road equipment. Following our short time with the Trailhawk 4xe version of the Grand Cherokee, we think it may become more ubiquitous than ever.

Opting for the Trailhawk version of the Grand Cherokee brings a Quadra Trac II 4x4 system along with an electronic limited-slip differential at the rear as well as a front electronic disconnecting anti-roll bar which helps on tight off-road trails. Also notable are the 18-inch wheels shod with 30.5-inch off-road tires and Quadra-Lift air suspension with five different settings allowing it to ford water and provide an excellent approach angle on steep grades. Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain option has a 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor to generate a combined 375 horsepower and 23 miles per gallon combined on the city and highway when not charged up. If the battery is fully charged, the 4xe can travel up to 25 miles on electric power alone.

The fully-loaded Trailhawk 4xe we sampled came with Capri leather trim, 12-way power-adjustable massaging front seats, head-up display, night vision, an integrated off-road camera, and a surround view camera system that is convenient on a tight trail. The UConnect 5 infotainment system with navigation and a 10.1-inch touchscreen as well as a front passenger interactive display come standard. We sampled the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe on the winding, hilly roads of Malibu and were surprised to find that an off-road dedicated vehicle could be wonderful on road, all while delivering a high amount of fuel efficiency as well as a comfortable ride.

Since the Wrangler 4xe has been a hit for Jeep, we can imagine that the Grand Cherokee 4xe will be a very sought-after choice for SUV shoppers across the world, not just the United States, due to the efficiency and go-anywhere capability it provides. We’re glad that we got to experience the 4xe version of the Grand Cherokee and we hope to be able to sample it off the beaten track to discover just how versatile it can be.

See our short drive of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve V-8.

Satish Kondapavulur