2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee review

The 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a strong midsize SUV contender, squaring off against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota 4Runner. It mixes Jeep's traditional rugged off-road appeal with genuinely impressive on-road refinement. Add a classy, well-equipped cabin, and the Grand Cherokee is well worth considering. Three engines are offered. The standard powerplant is a 290-hp 3.6-liter V6, and it's slightly less powerful than some rivals' engines. But unlike many competitors, Jeep offers the ability to upgrade to a 5.7-liter V8 with a more robust 360 hp. The V6 comes with a five-speed automatic, while the V8 uses a six-speed automatic transmission. Both come standard with rear-wheel drive but offer a choice of four-wheel-drive systems. If you're willing to sacrifice the Grand Cherokee's off-road prowess for hotter road performance, the SRT8 tops the range. Its 470-hp 6.4-liter V8 makes it among the most powerful SUVs out there, and it's typically available for many thousands less than similar-performance rivals.

The Grand Cherokee's road manners make it feel more like a crossover than a vehicle that's so capable off-road. The suspension is settled and controlled, while comfort is good. Passenger space is decent; the trunk is slightly smaller than you might expect in a midsize SUV, but it's not likely to be a deal breaker. Trim levels start at the decently equipped Laredo, followed by the Limited, Overland, and Overland Summit. The SRT8 is something of a stand-alone model in relation to both its performance and equipment. New for 2013 is the Trailhawk edition, which adds four-wheel drive and off-road equipment including an air suspension and Kevlar®-reinforced tires. A brilliant all-rounder, the 2013 Jeep deserves to be near the top of your list if you're shopping for a midsize SUV.