Used Jeep Grand Cherokee Buyer's Guide: 2015-2024 | Jay Malone CDJR Hutchinson MN
If you’re shopping for a used midsize SUV in central Minnesota, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most capable, most versatile, and most cross-shopped vehicles on the market. The 2015-2024 model years cover two distinct generations — the long-running WK2 and the redesigned WL — plus the introduction of the Grand Cherokee L (3-row) variant in 2021. There are also four or more powertrain options depending on year, ranging from the proven Pentastar V6 all the way up to the 707 hp Trackhawk supercharged V8.
This guide walks through every major decision so you know exactly what you’re looking at when you shop. We’ve sold used Grand Cherokees consistently in 2026 — one of the most popular used SUVs on our CDJR side. We know what to look for, what the common issues are by year, what holds up in Minnesota winters, and what trim and engine combinations actually deliver value at this price point.
In This Guide
- Grand Cherokee generations — WK2 vs WL
- Grand Cherokee vs Grand Cherokee L explained
- Used Grand Cherokee engine options 2015-2024
- Trim levels and what each one delivers
- Which year used Grand Cherokee is the best to buy?
- Common issues by year and what to inspect
- Trail Rated capability and off-road systems
- Used Grand Cherokee in Minnesota winters
- What to expect on price
- Why buy your used Grand Cherokee from Jay Malone CDJR
- Frequently asked questions
Grand Cherokee Generations: WK2 (2011-2021) vs WL (2022-2024)
The Grand Cherokee had a complete redesign for the 2022 model year. The 2011-2021 Grand Cherokees are the WK2 generation — the long-running platform that earned the Grand Cherokee its reputation. The 2022 and later models are the WL generation — an entirely new vehicle on a new platform with new interior, new technology, and significantly different feature priorities.
Here’s where it gets confusing: the WK2 was produced through 2021 as the standard 2-row Grand Cherokee. The WL launched as a 3-row vehicle (the “Grand Cherokee L”) in mid-2021 as a 2021 model, then expanded for 2022 with both the WL 2-row Grand Cherokee AND the continuing WL Grand Cherokee L 3-row. The 2-row WL replaced the WK2 entirely for 2022.
If you see a 2021 Grand Cherokee L, that’s a WL. If you see a 2021 regular Grand Cherokee, that’s a WK2. Both were sold side-by-side as 2021 models. The 2022 model year is where the WL fully took over for both body styles.
| Feature | WK2 (2011-2021) | WL (2022-2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Generation produced | 2011-2021 (2-row only) | 2021+ (L 3-row), 2022+ (2-row) |
| Interior tech | Uconnect 4 / 5 (5/7/8.4 inch screens) | Uconnect 5 (10.1 inch standard, 10.25 passenger screen option) |
| Available 3-row | No (2-row only) | Yes (Grand Cherokee L) |
| 4xe plug-in hybrid? | No | Yes (2022+, 25-mile electric range) |
| Air suspension | Quadra-Lift (available) | Quadra-Lift (available, refined) |
| 4x4 systems | Quadra-Trac I, II, Quadra-Drive II | Quadra-Trac I, II, Quadra-Drive II |
| Max tow capacity | 7,200 lbs (HEMI V8) | 7,200 lbs (HEMI V8) / 6,000 lbs (V6) |
| Trim hierarchy | Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, SRT, Trackhawk | Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, Summit Reserve |
The decision between WK2 and WL usually comes down to budget and feature priorities. A 2018-2019 WK2 Limited with reasonable mileage runs significantly less than a comparable 2022-2023 WL Limited — often $10,000-$15,000 less. The WL brings the new interior, 4xe plug-in hybrid option, and the L 3-row variant. The WK2 gives you a proven platform with the high-output engine options (SRT and Trackhawk) at lower price points.
Grand Cherokee vs Grand Cherokee L: Which Should You Buy?
The Grand Cherokee L launched as a 2021 model with 3-row seating for up to 7 passengers. The standard Grand Cherokee remains a 2-row SUV. Here’s how to decide:
Buy the Grand Cherokee (2-row) if:
- You don’t need third-row seating
- You want maximum cargo capacity behind the second row
- You want the more compact footprint (easier to park)
- You’re shopping the 4xe plug-in hybrid (only available as 2-row through 2024)
- You’re considering the WK2 generation (only available as 2-row)
- You want a slightly shorter wheelbase for tighter turning and trail use
Buy the Grand Cherokee L (3-row) if:
- You need to seat 6 or 7 passengers
- You want a true midsize 3-row SUV with off-road capability
- You haul family, friends, or kids and their gear regularly
- You want all the WL features but with extra room
The Grand Cherokee L is roughly 15 inches longer than the standard Grand Cherokee, with a longer wheelbase and the third-row seat. The third row is usable for adults on shorter trips and excellent for kids. Cargo behind the third row is limited (~17 cu ft) but expands significantly when you fold the third row down.
Used Grand Cherokee Engine Options 2015-2024
The Grand Cherokee has one of the broadest engine lineups in the midsize SUV segment, particularly across the WK2 era. Here’s what you’ll find on used Grand Cherokees in this year range:
3.6L Pentastar V6
Years: 2015-2024 (across WK2 and WL)
Output: 290-295 hp / 260-260 lb-ft
Best for: Daily driving, fuel-conscious buyers, and most central MN use cases. The Pentastar is the most common Grand Cherokee engine on the used market. It’s well-proven, capable, and offers good fuel economy. Tow rating up to 6,200 lbs (WK2) or 6,200 lbs (WL) with proper equipment.
5.7L HEMI V8
Years: 2015-2024 (across WK2 and WL, optional on most trims)
Output: 360 hp / 390 lb-ft
Best for: Maximum towing (7,200 lbs), V8 character, and buyers who want the high-output option without going to SRT pricing. The HEMI is one of the most-loved V8s in the segment and is available across most Grand Cherokee trims. Sound, torque, and capability all step up significantly over the V6.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6
Years: 2014-2019 (WK2 only)
Output: 240 hp / 420 lb-ft
Best for: Maximum fuel economy (up to 28 mpg highway) and strong low-end torque. The EcoDiesel is a niche option but it’s genuinely useful for buyers who tow regularly or drive long highway miles. Important: 2014-2016 EcoDiesels were part of the Stellantis emissions settlement — verify the emissions update has been completed on any specific vehicle. Most have been by now, but confirm.
6.4L SRT V8
Years: 2015-2021 (WK2 SRT only)
Output: 475 hp / 470 lb-ft
Best for: Performance enthusiasts. The Grand Cherokee SRT is a genuine performance SUV with launch control, Brembo brakes, adaptive suspension, and 0-60 in under 5 seconds. Premium pricing on the used market. Excellent for buyers who want a fast family SUV.
6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8 (Trackhawk)
Years: 2018-2021 (WK2 Trackhawk only)
Output: 707 hp / 645 lb-ft
Best for: Maximum performance — the Trackhawk is one of the fastest SUVs ever made. 0-60 in 3.5 seconds. Demand significantly exceeds supply on the used market; premium pricing throughout the production years. A specific buyer profile but a legitimate enthusiast option.
2.0L Turbo + 4xe Plug-in Hybrid
Years: 2022-2024 (WL 2-row only)
Output: 375 hp combined system / 470 lb-ft / ~25 miles electric-only range
Best for: Buyers who want electric-only operation for short commutes plus full SUV capability for everything else. The 4xe keeps the Quadra-Trac 4x4 system — you don’t give up off-road capability to get the plug-in option. May qualify for federal/state tax incentives on used purchases.
What about the Hurricane? The 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six is available on the 2024+ Grand Cherokee L (Summit Reserve trim) and is replacing the HEMI on certain WL configurations going forward. You’ll see Hurricane references on the newest used Grand Cherokee L inventory.
A Jay Malone CDJR customer with their used Grand Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee is consistently one of our top-selling used SUVs.
Used Grand Cherokee Trim Levels: What Each One Delivers
The Grand Cherokee trim hierarchy is broad and varies somewhat between WK2 and WL. Here’s what to expect at each level:
| Trim | Best For | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Laredo | Value buyers | Base trim. Cloth seats, basic feature set, power features. V6 standard. Most popular Grand Cherokee on the used market. |
| Altitude / Altitude X | Sport-styled value | Blacked-out exterior trim, sport styling, often with upgraded wheels. WK2 and WL variants. Strong looks on a budget. |
| Limited | Best balance of features and price | Leather seats, heated front seats, dual-zone climate, upgraded audio, larger touchscreen, premium feature set. Available with V6 or HEMI V8. |
| Trailhawk | Off-road capability | Trail Rated. Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system, Quadra-Lift air suspension, off-road tires, skid plates, recovery hooks, off-road camera. WK2 and WL variants. |
| Overland | Premium comfort | Leather seats with upgraded materials, panoramic sunroof, premium audio, advanced driver-assist, available HEMI V8. |
| Summit / Summit Reserve | Top luxury | Quilted leather, McIntosh premium audio (WL), full driver-assist suite, panoramic sunroof, every available luxury feature. Summit Reserve (WL) adds palermo leather and additional luxury appointments. |
| SRT | Performance, WK2 only | 6.4L SRT V8 (475 hp), Brembo brakes, adaptive suspension, launch control, performance seats, distinct styling. 2015-2021. |
| Trackhawk | Maximum performance, WK2 only | Supercharged 6.2L V8 (707 hp), 0-60 in 3.5 seconds. The Hellcat-powered Grand Cherokee. 2018-2021. Premium used pricing. |
For most central Minnesota Grand Cherokee buyers, the Limited is the sweet spot — leather seats, dual-zone climate, the option of HEMI V8, and a meaningful step up from Laredo for $4,000-$6,000 more on the used market. The Trailhawk is the right pick if you want serious off-road capability. Overland and Summit are the luxury picks if you want premium features standard.
Which Year Used Grand Cherokee Is the Best to Buy?
The right year depends on your budget and your priorities on the WK2 vs WL decision. Here’s how we’d break it down for central MN buyers in 2026:
If your budget is $15,000-$22,000:
Look at 2016-2018 Grand Cherokee Limited or Trailhawk (WK2). Mature WK2 platform, well-proven Pentastar V6 or HEMI V8 engines, Uconnect 4 available. Strong values at this price point. Verify 2014-2016 EcoDiesels for the emissions update if you find one.
If your budget is $22,000-$32,000:
Look at 2019-2021 Grand Cherokee Limited, Trailhawk, or Overland (WK2). Last and most refined WK2 model years. By 2019, all the platform’s development was complete. Trailhawk and Overland deliver excellent capability and comfort. Excellent values now that WL has taken over as the current generation.
If your budget is $32,000-$48,000:
Look at 2022-2023 Grand Cherokee Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, or 4xe (WL). First years of the new WL generation. Significant interior, tech, and capability upgrade over WK2. The 4xe plug-in hybrid is a meaningful option here. By 2023, most launch-year issues had been resolved.
If your budget is $48,000+:
Look at 2023-2024 Grand Cherokee Overland, Summit, Summit Reserve, or Grand Cherokee L Summit (WL). Almost-new SUVs with low mileage and full warranty often still active. Strong choice if you want near-new without the new-vehicle price.
Years to be more cautious about: 2014-2016 EcoDiesel trucks — verify the emissions update was applied. 2022 launch WL trucks had some Uconnect 5 software bugs that have since been resolved via dealer software updates. None of these are deal-breakers, just things our service team verifies before any specific Grand Cherokee gets priced.
Common Issues by Year — What to Inspect
Here’s what our service department typically looks at on used Grand Cherokees by generation:
WK2 (2011-2021) common items
- HEMI tick: Some HEMI V8s develop a lifter tick over time. Most are mild and don’t affect drivability. Worth listening for on cold start.
- EcoDiesel emissions update (2014-2016): Part of the Stellantis settlement — verify the update was applied.
- Air suspension (Quadra-Lift) leaks: Air bags can develop leaks with age on equipped trucks. Check for leveling at startup and listen for compressor cycling.
- Pentastar V6 rocker arm wear: Some 2011-2014 Pentastars developed cylinder head issues. Mostly resolved by 2015+ production but verify with our service team on early WK2 trucks.
- Transmission shift quality: The 8-speed automatic on WK2 trucks is generally reliable but worth verifying through all gears on a test drive.
- UConnect 4/5 software updates: Earlier WK2 Uconnect systems benefit from staying current on software updates.
WL (2022-2024) common items
- Early Uconnect 5 software: 2022 launch trucks had some Uconnect 5 bugs (occasional freezing, slow boot). Resolved via software updates available at any CDJR dealer.
- 4xe charging port (2022-2023): Small subset of early 4xe trucks had charging port concerns. Most resolved via service campaigns.
- Air suspension (Quadra-Lift): Same considerations as WK2 — verify the system levels properly and listen for compressor health.
- Panoramic sunroof drainage: Standard maintenance item — verify drainage tubes are clear on equipped trucks.
- HEMI lifter tick: Same consideration as WK2 trucks — the HEMI carries over with the same characteristics.
What our pre-sale inspection covers on every used Grand Cherokee
- Engine performance, cold start, leaks, fluids, and engine-specific service items (HEMI lifters, EcoDiesel emissions, 4xe battery health)
- Transmission shift quality (8-speed automatic across the range)
- 4x4 transfer case engagement (Quadra-Trac I, II, or Quadra-Drive II), ABS, traction control, off-road modes including Selec-Terrain
- Brakes, rotors, calipers, pads, and parking brake (Brembo brakes if SRT or Trackhawk)
- Air suspension operation if equipped — leveling, ride height adjustability, compressor health
- 4xe battery state-of-health if equipped (plug-in hybrid trucks)
- Tires, alignment, wheel condition (off-road tires if Trailhawk)
- Suspension, shocks, ball joints, tie rods
- HVAC, heated/cooled seats, heated steering wheel (MN-critical inspections)
- Uconnect operation, all cameras, driver-assist features
- Sunroof / panoramic moonroof drainage if equipped
- All recalls and Technical Service Bulletin compliance
Trail Rated Capability and Off-Road Systems
The Grand Cherokee is the only midsize SUV in its class that’s available with three different 4x4 systems and genuine Trail Rated off-road capability. If you’re shopping for a Grand Cherokee specifically for off-road or all-weather capability, here’s what to know:
| 4x4 System | Found On | Capability |
|---|---|---|
| Quadra-Trac I | Laredo, base trims | Full-time AWD without low range. Excellent for all-weather. Adequate for light off-road. |
| Quadra-Trac II | Limited, Overland with optional upgrade | Two-speed transfer case with low range. Better off-road capability with Selec-Terrain modes (Auto, Snow, Sand/Mud, Sport). |
| Quadra-Drive II | Trailhawk, optional on upper trims | Full off-road system with electronic limited-slip rear differential. Best traction. Standard on Trailhawk. |
Quadra-Lift Air Suspension is available on Overland, Summit, and Trailhawk trims. It adjusts ride height by up to 4.1 inches between Aero (lowered for highway efficiency) and Off-Road 2 (maximum ground clearance). Genuinely useful for both highway fuel economy and off-road clearance.
For most central Minnesota buyers, Quadra-Trac II on Limited or Overland delivers everything you need for MN winters and occasional off-road use. Quadra-Drive II on Trailhawk is the right pick if you do serious trail work or want maximum capability.
Used Grand Cherokee in Minnesota Winters: What to Look For
The Grand Cherokee is one of the more weather-capable midsize SUVs you can buy used in this market. Here’s what matters for MN buyers:
4x4 system: All three Grand Cherokee 4x4 systems are excellent in MN winters. Quadra-Trac I (full-time AWD) is more than adequate for most central MN winter driving. Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II add capability for deeper snow or more demanding conditions.
Quadra-Lift Air Suspension (when equipped): Genuinely useful in MN winters. Can lower the vehicle for easier entry/exit when snow piles up around doors, and raise it for clearance in unplowed conditions. Worth verifying it’s working properly on any specific vehicle.
Heated seats/steering wheel: Heated front seats standard on Limited and above. Heated rear seats available on Overland and above with proper equipment groups. Heated steering wheel standard on Limited and above of most years.
Remote Start: Standard on Limited and above. A significant MN-winter quality of life feature, especially with the larger engines.
Tires: Original equipment tires vary by trim and year. Trailhawk comes with off-road tires (good in snow, less ideal for highway driving). Most other trims come with all-season tires. For MN commuting in deep winter, dedicated winter tires deliver noticeably better performance — we offer winter tire packages through our service department.
Voted Best Body Shop in Hutchinson — in-house, factory-trained collision and paint repair.
What to Expect on Price
Used Grand Cherokee pricing varies significantly by generation, year, trim, engine, and mileage. Here are general ranges for typical configurations on the central MN market right now:
| Year Range | Laredo | Limited / Trailhawk | Overland | Summit / SRT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2017 (WK2) | $14K-$20K | $18K-$26K | $22K-$32K | $28K-$45K |
| 2018-2019 (WK2) | $18K-$24K | $22K-$32K | $28K-$38K | $34K-$55K |
| 2020-2021 (WK2) | $22K-$28K | $26K-$38K | $32K-$45K | $40K-$65K |
| 2022-2023 (WL) | $30K-$38K | $36K-$48K | $44K-$58K | $52K-$72K |
| 2024 (WL) | $36K-$44K | $42K-$56K | $50K-$68K | $60K-$85K |
Ranges are general guidance for typical configurations on the central MN market. Specific pricing depends on mileage, options, condition, and current inventory. Trackhawk pricing runs significantly above Summit and varies widely based on condition. Grand Cherokee L pricing runs $2,000-$5,000 above comparable 2-row configurations. 4xe plug-in hybrid trucks typically command 5-10% premium over comparable gas configurations.
Why Buy Your Used Grand Cherokee From Jay Malone CDJR
Grand Cherokee is one of the most popular used midsize SUVs in central Minnesota. Here’s what you specifically get at Jay Malone CDJR:
- Factory-trained service department — we work on new Jeeps every day. Same crew inspects every used Grand Cherokee before pricing. Voted Best Auto Mechanic in Hutchinson.
- 4xe plug-in hybrid expertise — our techs are trained on the 4xe system. Most independent shops aren’t.
- On-site body shop — voted Best Body Shop in Hutchinson. Factory-trained collision and paint repair.
- Jay Malone Certified Pre-Owned inventory available — our in-house certification standard with comprehensive inspection and dealer-backed accountability. Learn more about our certification standard.
- Family-owned since 2005 — Jay, Jake, and Jordan Malone. Same family, same dealership. Ask for any of us by name if anything needs attention after the sale.
- One dealership, two new-vehicle franchises — trade your current vehicle of any brand. We take everything.
- Local accountability — we serve buyers from Hutchinson, Glencoe, Litchfield, Willmar, Waconia, and across central Minnesota.
Jay, Jake, and Jordan Malone — the family running Jay Malone Motors since 2005.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the WK2 and WL Grand Cherokee?
The WK2 (2011-2021) is the previous-generation Grand Cherokee — 2-row only, the long-running platform that built the Grand Cherokee's reputation. The WL (2022-2024) is the redesigned current generation with new interior, Uconnect 5, the 4xe plug-in hybrid option, and the Grand Cherokee L 3-row variant. Both were sold as 2021 models — the 2-row 2021 is a WK2, the 3-row 2021 Grand Cherokee L is a WL.
What is the difference between Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L?
The Grand Cherokee is the 2-row model. The Grand Cherokee L is a 3-row variant introduced for 2021 with seating for up to 7 passengers. The L is roughly 15 inches longer with a longer wheelbase. The 4xe plug-in hybrid is only available in the 2-row Grand Cherokee. SRT and Trackhawk performance variants are WK2 only (no L variant).
Which year used Jeep Grand Cherokee is the most reliable?
For WK2 generation, 2018-2020 model years are widely considered the most refined — mature platform, Uconnect 4 widely available, and most early-platform issues resolved. The 5.7L HEMI V8 in this range is particularly well-proven. For WL generation, 2023+ model years benefit from a year of post-launch refinement on the new platform.
Should I buy a used Grand Cherokee with the HEMI V8 or Pentastar V6?
It depends on your priorities. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is the most common choice and delivers good fuel economy and adequate capability for most central Minnesota drivers. The 5.7L HEMI V8 is the move if you want maximum towing (7,200 lbs), V8 character, or plan to use the Grand Cherokee for heavier work. The HEMI also has better resale value than the V6 at trade-in time.
Is the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk worth the premium?
If you do meaningful off-road driving or want maximum capability for unplowed central MN winter roads, yes. The Trailhawk includes Quadra-Drive II (the most capable 4x4 system), Quadra-Lift air suspension, off-road tires, skid plates, and recovery hooks — serious capability you don't get on other trims. If you mostly drive paved roads, the Limited or Overland delivers what you need for less money.
What is the Grand Cherokee 4xe?
The Grand Cherokee 4xe is the plug-in hybrid version — available on 2-row WL trucks from 2022+. It combines a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder with electric motors for 375 hp combined system output and approximately 25 miles of electric-only range. The 4xe keeps the full 4x4 system (Quadra-Trac), so you don't give up off-road capability for the plug-in option. May qualify for federal/state tax incentives on used purchases.
Is a used Grand Cherokee SRT or Trackhawk worth buying?
For the right buyer, absolutely. The SRT (475 hp 6.4L V8) and Trackhawk (707 hp supercharged 6.2L V8) are genuine performance SUVs unlike anything else in the segment. Both have strong resale values and dedicated enthusiast markets. Considerations: fuel economy is poor, premium fuel required, and these vehicles have been driven hard by previous owners. Our service team inspects performance trucks extra carefully — brakes, suspension, transmission, and supercharger health on Trackhawks.
What is Jay Malone Certified Pre-Owned?
Jay Malone Certified Pre-Owned is the dealership's in-house certification standard. Eligible vehicles pass a comprehensive multi-point inspection by factory-trained technicians, are reconditioned to standard, include a vehicle history report, and are backed by the dealership voted Best Auto Mechanic and Best Body Shop in Hutchinson. Available across used Jeep, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler, and many other brands on our lot.
Can I finance a used Grand Cherokee with bad credit?
Yes. Our finance team works with multiple lenders covering a range of credit profiles including buyers rebuilding credit. Get pre-qualified with Capital One through our website with no impact to your credit score, or apply for financing directly through the financing department.
Where can I see your current used Grand Cherokee inventory?
Browse current used Grand Cherokee inventory at jaymalonechryslerdodgejeepram.com/used-inventory or filter directly to Grand Cherokee. Inventory rotates frequently. If you don't see what you're looking for, use our Find My Car tool and our team will help locate the right Grand Cherokee for you — no extra fee, ever. Call us at (320) 587-4748 or visit us at 1165 Hwy 7 W in Hutchinson.
Ready to find your used Grand Cherokee?
Browse our current used Grand Cherokee inventory, get pre-qualified with Capital One (no impact to credit score), or stop by 1165 Hwy 7 W in Hutchinson to see what’s on the lot today. Our team can walk you through any specific Grand Cherokee, generation, engine, or trim question — no pressure, no locator fees.
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Read the Standard →About the Author
I’m Jordan Malone-Forst, Assistant General Manager & Marketing at Jay Malone Motors in Hutchinson, MN. I’m proud to be part of the family business my dad Jay started in 2005 — and even prouder to serve the community I grew up in. I’m President of the Hutchinson Ambassadors, serve on the Board of Directors for the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, and was named 2025 Young Leader of the Year. If you have questions about used Grand Cherokee inventory at our dealership, reach out — I’d love to help.