2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee review
Jeep Grand Cherokee highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Lots of strong engine choices
- Off-road capability and good on-road manners
Cons
- Most sophisticated driver aids are limited to top-level trims
- Diesel engine is economical but lacks refinement
Mileage (EPA estimate)
13 city, 19 highway, 15 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee combines utility and luxury for all-around appeal
Few vehicles can handle a broad scope of duties as well as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, whether it's making a carpool run or conquering an off-road trail. Jeep serves up the 2016 Grand Cherokee with a choice of four engines, rear- or four-wheel drive, and five well-equipped trim levels. A number of packages will boost its off-road capabilities if adventure is on your mind. The Laredo kicks off the lineup, featuring alloy wheels, automatic headlights, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone climate control, and Bluetooth® connectivity for its 5-inch touchscreen-operated six-speaker sound system. The next-level Limited makes a lot of sense, featuring some desirable convenience features like a power tailgate, remote engine start, heated front seats and steering wheel, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
The Overland and Summit above the Limited add luxury and more high-tech features, but they start to look expensive alongside rivals, however well equipped they are. At the top of the lineup is the SRT model, a road-focused performance model, with a 6.4-liter V8 with 475 hp, and it looks like a bargain compared with its key high-performance rivals. Power for the rest of the lineup isn't quite as substantial, but it's certainly not lacking. The base gasoline engine is a 3.6-liter V6 with 295 hp, followed by a 360-hp 5.7-liter V8. There's a turbodiesel choice in the form of a 3.0-liter 240-hp V6, and its low-rev torque makes it adept at towing and off-roading. It offers attractive EPA estimates, too. All come with an eight-speed automatic as standard. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a tough, capable choice for a midsize SUV, one that offers an almost unique breadth of ability.
All Jeep Grand Cherokee years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Jeep Grand Cherokee generation from 2012 to 2025
What is new for the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
- The Grand Cherokee is available in a variety of new trims, including the 75TH Anniversary Edition and SRT Night.
- The Altitude and SRT Red Vapor trims have been discontinued for 2016.
- Grand Cherokee trims have been upgraded with Run Flat Tires and Blu-ray Video System as standard equipment this year.
- The High Altitude trim now comes with Adjustable Suspension, Cruise Control, Panoramic Sunroof, and Turbo Diesel Engine as standard equipment.
- The Summit trim now comes with Satellite Radio Ready and Turbo Diesel Engine as standard equipment.
- The Limited trim now comes with Turbo Diesel Engine as standard equipment.
- The Overland trim now comes with Panoramic Sunroof and Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment.
- The Laredo trim now comes with Power Hatch/Deck Lid as standard equipment.
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee trims
Curious how Jeep Grand Cherokee trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesLaredo
Includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, fog lights, keyless ignition and entry, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, five-inch touchscreen, six-speaker sound system, USB port, auxiliary audio jack, Bluetooth connectivity, and more.
Limited
Adds 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery, eight-way power passenger seat, heated rear seats, driver memory settings, power liftgate, rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and more.
Overland
Adds 20-inch wheels, LED daytime running lamps, dual chrome exhaust tips, power-folding mirrors, navigation, CommandView® dual-pane panoramic sunroof, wood-trim steering wheel, extended leather upholstery, Alpine® surround sound nine-speaker audio system, 8.4-inch touchscreen, and more.
High Altitude
Adds 20-inch black wheels, a sports body kit, black exterior accents, aluminum pedals, trim-exclusive leather upholstery, forward collision warning, advanced brake assist, adaptive cruise control, and more.
Summit
Adds front parking sensors, illuminated door sills, additional noise-reducing acoustic window glass, active noise-canceling technology, natural wood interior trim accents, Harman Kardon 19-speaker sound system, and more.
SRT
Adds adaptive suspension, Brembo® brakes, performance-tuned steering, limited-slip rear differential, Selec-Track® adaptive damping system, trim-exclusive gauge cluster, leather and suede sport seats, carbon-fiber cabin accents, and more.
5 reasons to buy the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
1. Off-road prowess
Right from the get-go, your Jeep Grand Cherokee is ready to swap tarmac for the trail. The available 4x4 system has Jeep's Selec-Terrain capabilities. This allows you to choose the settings that suit the terrain and conditions that lay ahead of you. These modes allow you to tailor performance as needed and include Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock. So, whether you're looking to tackle that mountain pass, fancy a trek through the desert, or just want to feel a little more sure-footed as you head to the campsite, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a good bet.
2. Aesthetic interior
If you'll be using your Jeep for off-road excursions, trips into nature, or just want to entertain your passengers, you'll love the available panoramic sunroof. This lets an abundance of light into the cabin, making for a more pleasant driving experience. Rear-seat passengers can sit back and look up at the sky as the world passes by on the way to your next destination.
3. Three strong engine options
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee has something for everyone. Even the base model is well-equipped with its standard 295-hp 3.6L V6 engine. This powertrain will achieve an EPA-estimated 21 combined mpg but if you're after more thrifty performance, look out for the 3.0L turbodiesel, which will do an EPA-estimated 25 combined mpg with front-wheel drive.
If towing is important to you, the turbodiesel should tick your boxes there too. The 3.0L diesel engine has an estimated towing capacity of 7,400 lbs with front-wheel drive or 7,200 lbs with four-wheel drive (when properly equipped).4. Accessibility is everything
The intuitive cabin is a great place to be, especially as the driver. The attention to detail in how you use your Jeep can't be missed. The leather-trimmed steering wheel is as functional as it is soft, with a range of controls right at your fingertips. Available features such a voice command, cruise control, climate, and navigation can all be controlled from the steering wheel.
5. Ultimate audio options
If you love music, the nine-speaker Alpine® surround-sound system is bound to please. It's standard on the Overland trim and optional on the Limited. For an even higher-end system, look at the Summit trim. You'll get a Harman Kardon® sound system with 19 speakers that use clever engineering to improve sound quality while reducing energy consumption. Whichever you choose, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a good choice if you'd like a soundtrack to your next trip.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
Following a substantial upgrade in 2017, the Nissan Pathfinder is a great choice if you're looking for a three-row SUV that can tow. 2019 models offer an estimated towing capacity of 6,000 lbs across all trim levels with the V6 engine, when properly equipped.
Look for the SV trim on 2017–2020 models for adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.Standard features of the 2016–2020 Nissan Pathfinder base trim S include:
Rear privacy glass
Six-speaker sound system
Tri-zone automatic climate control
If you're looking for a practical off-roader, the 2018–2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD models have you covered with standard four-wheel drive and a locking rear differential. If you're carrying a bunch of camping gear with you, you'll appreciate the 46.3 cu-ft of space behind the rear seats, which opens up to 88.8 cu-ft with seats folded. On top of this, the 2018–2020 models with the V6 engine can tow an estimated 5000 lbs when properly equipped.
The 2016–2020 Toyota 4Runner base trim has these standard features, and more:
6.1-inch touchscreen
Bluetooth connectivity
Rearview camera
The Lexus GX gives you the best of both worlds with premium luxury and off-road ability all rolled into one. 2020 models feature a standard V8 engine that can tow up to an estimated 6,500 lbs, when properly equipped.
The Luxury trim adds plenty of features to the base model, including adaptive suspension, power-reclining seats, and leather upholstery. This is a great choice if you're looking for something comfortable for the city that can handle the odd trip into the wilderness too.Standard features of the 2016–2020 Lexus GX Base trim include:
Eight-inch touchscreen
Automatic LED headlights
Rearview camera
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Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the Jeep Grand Cherokee an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Jeep Grand Cherokee 32nd out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Jeep Grand CherokeeJeep Grand Cherokee features and specs
Curious how Jeep Grand Cherokee trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
75TH Anniversary Edition 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Mirrors
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear View Camera
- Remote Start
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Sunroof(s)
- Traction Control
- Turbo Diesel Engine
- A/C Seat(s)
- Automated Cruise Control
- Bluetooth Technology
- CD Audio
- Full Roof Rack
- Navigation System
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Rear Entertainment System
- Running Boards
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
3.0L
Horsepower
240
Torque (ft-lbs)
420
Engine type
Turbo Diesel
Fuel capacity
24.6
Wheelbase
114.8"
Overall length
189.8"
Width
76.5"
Height
69.3"
Leg room
F 40.3"/R 38.6"
Head room
F 39.9"/R 39.2"
Front tires
P265/50TR20
Rear tires
P265/50TR20
Seating capacity
5
Max towing capacity
350/3500 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee FAQ
Most likely, yes. Since the late 1990s, the designers at Jeep have left unique Easter eggs—or hidden emblems or logos—throughout the interior and exterior of the Grand Cherokee for owners to find. Think about the hunt for this hidden logo as a fun way to get to know your Jeep. You might find just one Easter egg but there could be 30 or more.
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee features plenty of off-road technology, for drivers with adventurous lifestyles. It's equally capable of being a daily driver; with classy available touches that please passengers, including a panoramic dual sunroof, premium audio options, and plush leather upholstery.
The fourth-generation Grand Cherokee (2011–2021) is where this brawny explorer really raised the bar. A more passenger-focused luxury interior was introduced, along with improved engines and a huge choice of trim and package options.
More about the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Exterior colors:
Billet Silver Metallic
Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl
Granite Crystal Metallic
Ivory White Tri-Coat (Overland, Summit, and SRT only)
Light Brownstone Pearl
Luxury Brown Pearl (Summit only)
Maximum Steel Metallic
Redline Red 2-Coat Pearl (SRT only)
True Blue Pearl
Velvet Red Pearl
Interior colors:
Black
Black/Light Frost Beige
Dark Sienna Brown/Black
Indigo Blue/Jeep Brown
Jeep Brown
Jeep Brown/Light Frost Beige
Sepia (SRT option only)
Interior details
With soft-touch surfaces aplenty, the Grand Cherokee is a comfortable place to spend time — whether that's traveling to see family or on the highway during your commute. Cloth upholstery is standard but higher trims offer leather seats and genuine wood details for extra opulence. An available dual-screen Blu-ray rear-seat entertainment system is a pleasing addition if you're a family or group that enjoys road trips. With a total of 68.3 cu-ft of cargo space, you'll also be able to carry all the gear you need for that next adventure.
Child seat details
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee has two full sets of LATCH restraints (upper tether and lower anchors) in the second-row outboard seats. The middle seat also has an upper tether restraint. Parents and guardians should find the lower anchors easily enough, although they are wedged between the seat cushions. The upper tether anchors are all the way at the bottom of the seatbacks and protected by an upholstery cover. Seating options include booster, infant, or front- and rear-facing convertibles.
Performance
Depending on your needs, you've got a wealth of choice when it comes to performance. The base 3.6L V6 engine is a great all-rounder with a zero-to-60-mph time of 7.1 seconds (when new) and an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined with either 4WD or FWD.
If maximum performance is your goal, look for the SRT trim and its 475-hp 6.4L V8, which will do the sprint to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds (when new).If you'd like a little diesel power, the 3.0L V6 offers an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined with FWD and 24 mpg combined with 4WD.
It'll also tow an estimated 7,400 lbs with FWD, when properly equipped.Emissions
According to EPA estimates, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has these tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions:
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 2WD and 3.6L engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 413 grams per mile.
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 4WD and 3.6L engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 427 grams per mile.
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 4WD and 5.7L engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 533 grams per mile.
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 2WD and 3.0L turbodiesel engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 408 grams per mile.
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 4WD and 3.0L turbodiesel engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 432 grams per mile.
The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 4WD and 6.4L engine, has tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions of 592 grams per mile.
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