Discover the Best 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Configurations for Every Adventure
Are you on the hunt for an SUV that blends power, style, and versatility? Then look no further than the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It's a vehicle that stands out in the SUV market and is equipped to take on both the open road and rugged trails. With a host of configurations designed to meet every driver's need it’s important to know which model fits your lifestyle best. Here we’ll break down each trim of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee - from the features to drawbacks - so you can make an informed decision on which one is the right fit for you.
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Configurations Overview
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in a variety of trims each offering unique features that make them suitable for different preferences and budgets. They include:
- Laredo
- Limited
- Trailhawk
- Overland
- Summit
- SRT
- Trackhawk
What Makes the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Special?
What sets the 2018 Grand Cherokee apart from many other SUVs in its class is its versatility. It offers configurations that cater to both the off-road enthusiast and those looking for a more luxurious and comfortable drive. Whether you need a family vehicle or a high-performance beast for the track, there is a Grand Cherokee configuration for you.
The Base Model: Laredo
Overview
The Laredo is the entry-level model of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup, but don’t let that fool you. This model comes packed with features that offer great value for money. You get a 3.6-liter V6 engine pushing out 295 horsepower, which gives it solid power for everyday driving. It's also paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that ensures smooth gear shifts.
Interior and Features
The Laredo includes:
- Cloth upholstery with manual front seats
- 17-inch wheels
- Rear parking sensors
- Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Drawbacks of Laredo
While the Laredo does provide an affordable entry into the Grand Cherokee lineup it does have its limitations. The interior lacks some of the more premium touches found in higher trims. The seats are manual-adjust only and some may find the standard tech package a bit basic.
Alex Collantes says “The Laredo is great if you just want a reliable SUV without all the fancy add-ons. It's a Jeep that stays true to what the brand is about but don’t expect too many bells and whistles."
The Popular Pick: Limited
Overview
The Limited trim of the 2018 Grand Cherokee is where things start getting a little more upscale. It’s a step above the Laredo with a few more luxury features that make the driving experience feel more refined. It retains the same V6 engine but adds a number of comfort and convenience features to the interior.
Interior and Features
- Leather-trimmed seats with power-adjustable front seats
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Remote start capability
- 18-inch wheels for a more premium look
- Upgraded Uconnect system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen
Drawbacks of Limited
Though the Limited adds luxury, it also starts to raise the price. For some buyers, this model may feel like a bit of an in-between trim - it’s not quite as rugged as the Trailhawk and doesn’t quite have the full luxury appeal of the Overland or Summit.
“The Limited hits the sweet spot for many buyers,” says Alex Collantes, “but if you’re looking to go off-road or want a more plush experience you might want to look elsewhere in the lineup.”
Off-Road Ready: Trailhawk
Overview
For those who crave adventure the Trailhawk is a trim designed with off-road capabilities in mind. It’s the off-road warrior of the Grand Cherokee lineup and comes standard with 4-wheel drive along with off-road enhancements.
Interior and Features
- Unique exterior accents that set it apart visually
- Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system with rear electronic limited-slip differential
- Skid plates and tow hooks for serious trail driving
- Trail Rated Badge to indicate its off-road prowess
- Terrain Select System to handle various terrains
Drawbacks of Trailhawk
The Trailhawk is great for off-roading but you do compromise on ride comfort when driving on regular city streets. The suspension is tuned for trails so you may find the drive a bit bumpy compared to other models. Additionally, the rugged tires can be a bit noisy.
“Trailhawk is for those who are looking to explore the outdoors and aren’t afraid to get a bit dirty,” Alex Collantes shares, “But for everyday driving it might feel a bit too rough around the edges.”
The Balanced Beauty: Overland
Overview
The Overland trim is a well-rounded option that sits somewhere between luxury and off-road capability. It’s designed for those who want a luxurious feel without sacrificing some of the adventurous elements that make the Jeep brand so popular.
Interior and Features
- Premium leather upholstery and real wood trim
- Panoramic sunroof for a more open feel
- 20-inch wheels for an elegant look
- Air suspension system for a more comfortable and adaptable ride
- Advanced Uconnect system with navigation
Drawbacks of Overland
The Overland is a solid configuration but its air suspension can be a double-edged sword. While it provides a comfortable ride it may not be as durable as the traditional coil suspension over the long haul especially when used on rugged terrains. Also the price is starting to climb towards the luxury SUV segment.
Alex Collantes points out “The Overland is the SUV you take to a dinner date and then to the mountains the next day. It’s versatile but that air suspension might be a bit more trouble than it’s worth if you're thinking long-term.”
The Luxurious Option: Summit
Overview
For those who seek a more premium experience, the Summit is the most luxurious trim in the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup. It packs all the features of the Overland and then some, providing a truly first-class driving experience.
Interior and Features
- High-quality Nappa leather upholstery with diamond-quilted inserts
- Active noise-canceling technology for a quieter cabin
- Upgraded Harman Kardon sound system with 19 speakers
- Adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning
- Ventilated front seats for added comfort
Drawbacks of Summit
While the Summit offers luxury at its best it’s also the priciest non-performance trim. Some buyers might find that it doesn't add much over the Overland except for a few luxury enhancements and may struggle to justify the higher price tag.
“The Summit feels like driving a luxury sedan with the capability of an SUV,” says Alex Collantes, “but at that price point you might want to compare it to other luxury SUV brands.”
Performance Beast: SRT
Overview
The SRT trim of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a true performance vehicle. Under the hood you’ll find a 6.4-liter V8 engine that churns out 475 horsepower. This is the trim for those who want a fast SUV that performs like a sports car.
Interior and Features
- High-performance Brembo brakes
- Sport-tuned suspension for track-like handling
- Paddle shifters for manual gear changes
- Performance-tuned all-wheel drive system
- Launch control for rapid acceleration
Drawbacks of SRT
The biggest downside to the SRT is its fuel economy. With that large V8 engine don’t expect to get great mileage. Additionally, while it handles like a sports car the ride quality is significantly stiffer, which might not be to everyone's liking for everyday driving.
“The SRT is an adrenaline rush on four wheels,” says Alex Collantes, “but if you're worried about fuel costs or comfort on long drives you might want to consider the more traditional trims.”
Top Performer: Trackhawk
Overview
The Trackhawk is the top-of-the-line performance model of the 2018 Grand Cherokee. It’s designed for those who want extreme power and track-ready performance. Equipped with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that produces a whopping 707 horsepower, it’s the most powerful SUV in the lineup.
Interior and Features
- Upgraded all-wheel-drive system for maximum traction
- High-performance suspension and brakes
- Quad exhaust system for a distinctive sound
- Upgraded interior with Trackhawk-specific badging
- Driver performance features like launch control
Drawbacks of Trackhawk
While the Trackhawk offers incredible performance it comes with a steep price tag. It also has an aggressive sound and ride quality that might not be suitable for everyday use. And like the SRT, the fuel economy is very low.
“The Trackhawk is a beast but it’s not for the faint of heart or wallet,” says Alex Collantes, “If you want pure power and don’t mind paying for it this is your SUV.”
Comparing the Configurations
To make it easier to choose here’s a quick comparison chart of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee trims based on key features:
| Trim | Engine | Drive Type | Luxury | Performance | Off-Road |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laredo | 3.6L V6 (295 hp) | RWD / 4WD | Basic | Moderate | Low |
| Limited | 3.6L V6 (295 hp) | RWD / 4WD | Mid | Moderate | Low |
| Trailhawk | 3.6L V6 (295 hp) | 4WD | Mid | Moderate | High |
| Overland | 3.6L V6 (295 hp) | RWD / 4WD | High | Moderate | Medium |
| Summit | 3.6L V6 (295 hp) | RWD / 4WD | Very High | Moderate | Medium |
| SRT | 6.4L V8 (475 hp) | AWD | Low | High | Low |
| Trackhawk | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | AWD | Mid | Very High | Low |
Conclusion: Finding the Right Grand Cherokee for You
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a trim for every type of driver. Whether you prioritize off-road capability, luxury comfort, or high-speed performance, there’s a model to suit your needs. The key is to find the right balance of features and price that works for your lifestyle.
If you're someone who wants a reliable and affordable daily driver, the Laredo or Limited would be a great fit. For adventure-seekers, the Trailhawk is the way to go. Those looking for luxury might find the Overland or Summit appealing, and if you crave high performance, the SRT or Trackhawk are the ultimate choices.
When considering your options, remember to weigh the pros and cons of each trim. Consider how you'll be using your SUV most often and choose the one that best aligns with your lifestyle and driving needs.
Final Thoughts
“The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup is all about choices,” says Alex Collantes. “No matter what your needs are there's likely a Grand Cherokee configuration for you – and that's what makes it such a great option in the SUV market.”
References:
- Jeep Official Website: www.jeep.com
- U.S. News & World Report – Cars: www.usnews.com/cars
- Edmunds Car Reviews: www.edmunds.com