The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of class and sophistication.
Prashirwin Naidu
The fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee has been updated from performance to design. It has all the tech to keep one enchanted. In terms of appearance, the Grand Cherokee is muscular, with a powerful stance, a clear evolution from the 1992 original. This is the shorter wheelbase version of the Grand Cherokee L, released in 2022.
The vehicle comes in three grades: Limited, Overland and Summit Reserve. The Limited starts from R1,329,000. The Overland we drove is priced at R1,539,900, and the top-of-the-range Summit Reserve goes for R1,735,900.
Equipment levels set the model grades apart, but all are powered by the same engine: a 3.6-litre petrol unit with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It produces 210kW and 344Nm.
Stepping into the Overland, I was impressed by the quality and attention to detail. The seats are plush and comfortable, and the feel behind the wheel is one of sophistication and class.
The standard Limited has an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen, while the Overland and Summit Reserve feature a 10.1-inch display. Both systems have navigation and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A dozen USB ports can be found in the vehicle.
The McIntosh audio system in the Overland was impressive, with its 19 speakers and 950-watt amplifier. The Limited has a nine-speaker system. In terms of boot space, there is plenty: 1,328 litres behind the second row of seats, or 487 litres with all seats up.
Colour options are varied: Baltic Grey Metallic, Silver Zynith, Rocky Mountain Metallic, Velvet Red Pearl, Midnight Sky Metallic, Bright White, and Diamond Black Crystal.
In its natural element in an off-road environment, the Jeep makes light work of challenging conditions and is easy to manoeuvre despite its size.
Some may argue that the petrol engine needs more kick, but it performs reasonably well in off-road applications, cruising over gravel and freeway sessions.
Also, putting the rear electronic limited-slip differential and air suspension to good use can help you climb rocky mountains and descend them quickly. With adaptive damping, the air suspension makes for a smooth ride and steady on-road presence.
Four driving modes are available: Sport, Rock, Snow and Mud. A default Auto setting is also part of the mix. Under hard acceleration, the V6 delivers a pleasant sound. Claimed fuel consumption is 10.6l/100km. We achieved 11.2l/100km. Towing capacity is 2,813kg braked and 750kg unbraked. Motorists who like to haul caravans and trailers might find other options more appealing, as there are rivals with towing abilities of up to 3,500kg.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a balanced package, accomplished on the road and excellent in off-road settings. With its luxurious interior appointments, generous standard equipment levels and competitive pricing for the segment, families wanting full-sized, premium transportation will find it a compelling pick.
Also worth a look: the 2025 Jeep Wrangler: Iconic Capability Meets Modern Refineme and the The Most Technologically Advanced, 4x4-Capable, and Luxuriou.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee cost in South Africa?
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee starts at R1,329,000 for the Limited grade, R1,539,900 for the Overland, and R1,735,900 for the top-spec Summit Reserve.
Q: Is the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee worth buying?
The Grand Cherokee is worth buying if you need a premium SUV with serious off-road capability, excellent build quality, and loads of tech, but expect to pay luxury prices starting from R1,329,000.
Q: What engine does the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee have?
All three Grand Cherokee variants use the same 3.6-litre petrol V6 engine producing 210kW and 344Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Q: How much boot space does the Jeep Grand Cherokee have?
The Grand Cherokee offers 487 litres of boot space with all seats up, expanding to a massive 1,328 litres when you fold down the second row of seats.
Q: What's the difference between Grand Cherokee trim levels?
The main differences are equipment levels: Limited gets an 8.4-inch screen and nine speakers, while Overland and Summit Reserve feature a 10.1-inch display and the Overland gets a premium 19-speaker McIntosh sound system.
Should You Buy It?
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a solid buy if you've got the budget for it. Starting at R1,329,000 for the Limited, it's pricey but delivers genuine luxury, proper off-road capability, and build quality that justifies the premium. The Overland at R1,539,900 hits the sweet spot with its massive McIntosh sound system and 10.1-inch touchscreen. Yes, the 3.6-litre engine could use more punch for the price, but this Grand Cherokee excels where it matters most: comfort, capability, and that unmistakable Jeep character. If you're shopping for a premium SUV under R1,800,000 in South Africa, the Grand Cherokee deserves serious consideration.
