Hi all,

I've owned a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee (the first year of the new body style) since new in 2010. It's been a great vehicle. It meets all my needs. It's had a few mechanical issues over the years, but overall it's been great. It has all the style, size, capability, and comfort I look for in an SUV.

I'm considering giving it to my son in college and purchasing a new vehicle sometime next spring. The question is what. I know the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the last of this style. FCA is totally re-doing the 2021 model year based on Fiat chassis, etc. They're coming out with a new Grand Cherokee and also a bigger Wagoneer.

There are pros and cons to going with a 2020. It's basically still exactly like my current vehicle which I like and by this time I'd assume all of the bugs are worked out and it's a still a quality vehicle. On the other hand, its the same vehicle. There's something to be said for having a different make/model now and then.

What other vehicles do you recommend I consider? Back when I was looking in 2010 I looked at the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, GMC Acadia, and even some pickup trucks. But the Jeep won out due to being perfect for my needs and wants. What's new these days that I should consider? (I've never owned a pickup truck and would love to one day, but I just don't need that capability.)

Price-wise I'd like to stick around $35,000. Dealers are offering some amazing deals right now so I wonder if now is the time to buy instead of waiting until next year. Any thoughts on how deals will be over the next year?

Thanks for your insights!

Chris

My first though, is another JGC. Much newer & improved tech (if you care about that), and probably better efficiency.

Maybe a Wrangler or Gladiator? Gladiator would scratch the truck itch, without going to a full-sized truck.

Personally, not a fan of the Accadia/Traverse, even the nicer ones feel cheap-ish inside.

Ford has had some teething issues with the 2020 Explorer, but you may still be able to find new-old-stock 2019s at a discount.

We are on our third Grand Cherokee for my wife. Over the years she has had a Mercedes, BMW etc and she still comes back to the GC.

If the GC fits your current and projected future needs get another one!

Regarding the Gladiator it’s a great midsize truck (I have a Rubicon) but it is very different that the GC.

I have a '19 JGC Trailhawk with a HEMI. I'd recommend getting a '20 model that fits your needs. Lots of years to iron out the kinks and I still think it is the nicest looking and most comfortable mid size SUV out there. Great financing options right now too. I think you'll be pleased with the changes from your '11 to the current year model.

Stick with the jeep.

Thought I'd get on here before 90% start reccomending some over priced Japanese piece of crap.

Earlier this year, we replaced my wife's 2008 GC Overland (with 248,000 miles), with a new GC Summit. A lot has changed. The body looks similar, but the room inside has improved. Both cars have the 5.7 hemi and the new one has much improved fuel efficiency.

quote:

Originally posted by 21bubba:
Stick with the jeep.

Thought I'd get on here before 90% start reccomending some over priced Japanese piece of crap.

LOL you speak the truth!

I bet it's "Tora-ota, Tora-ota, Tora-ota" .

JMO if you liked the Cherokee, why not stick with it. There are some very good deals on new models right now from every manufacturer.

If you had zero problems with it get another. If you want something different, we are very happy with our highlander.

I opt for the GC also.

But IF you consider the Acadia/Enclave/Traverse do some Internet searching or talk to some independent repair shops first, specific questions on longevity of the front and rear suspension components. The 2017 was introduced with suspension changes mid 2016.

I can't say for sure about the "new" one but the earlier versions once they got into the high 80k mileage the front struts and rear upper control arms were due for replacement. At that time the rear arms were about 260 each, the factory did not service the bushings separately. Later ('17) version arms were less if memory is correct.

There were some problems with the timing chain tensioners on the 3.6 but that was a common across the board problem in GM but that seemed to be in the earlier versions.

I was a former Jeep Grand Cherokee owner (2004) and was looking to buy a new one to replace it around 2014.

After spending some time on the Jeep forums I was scared away by all of the transmission and electrical problems(ended up getting a Tundra and couldn't be happier).

I have always liked the Grand Cherokees and hoped Chrysler would get their act together regarding quality. It seems like the transmission problems have been ironed out for the most part and the reliability has been improved.

If you can get a good deal on one and you like your current one, why not go for it!

That being said, if it were me I would look hard at the Highlander

.

I really like Cherokees.

/S/ Liz Warren

For around 35k-40k, get a Lexus certified preowned GX460. To all the Towooota naysayers, I counter with luxury, best in class performance, reliable, best in class resale value, capable enough off road if needed and get treated like royalty by your dealerships.

quote:

Originally posted by TXLe:
For around 35k-40k, get a Lexus certified preowned GX460. To all the Towooota naysayers, I counter with luxury, best in class performance, reliable, best in class resale value, capable enough off road if needed and get treated like royalty by your dealerships.

Heaven forbid someone should have another opinion. Most of us Toyota/Lexus owners are former, GM, Ford, and Fiat owners.
Having said that, I’d go with the Highlander if he plans on keeping it for years. If not, the GC’s are nice looking.

quote:

Back when I was looking in 2010 I looked at the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, GMC Acadia, and even some pickup trucks. But the Jeep won out due to being perfect for my needs and wants. What's new these days that I should consider?

You're going to have to go through the same process. Go to several dealerships and drive a sample of those you are considering.
Sticking with the Jeep Grand Cherokee isn't a bad idea, but at least spend some time looking at alternatives.

I've driven a bunch of the newer Jeep Cherokees as rental cars. I don't like how they feel or drive. I'd go straight for the 2020 Ford Explorer, the new design really knocks it out of the park IMO.

If I were in the market for a newer ride, I'd shop for a Trailhawk. The Jeep that you are used to and enjoy, just faster.

For a similar sized vehicle, I would add a Honda Passport to the list, especially if you never go off-road. Could also add the Ridgeline if you like the idea of a truck but don't need a truck with all the associated drawbacks.

1. I've got a 2017 JGC Laredo that has been fantastic, with zero problems. It is the perfect size, too.

2. Its hard to find a true "American-made" car, since they all are stuffed with Chinese parts, but it would be nice if you could at least find a vehicle that is assembled in the USA.

3. This is a very popular segment and there are lots of good competitors in it; I'd suggest renting your target choices for a couple of days to give them each a try. The usual dealership "test drive" is too short to be of much value, IMHO.

I had a GC once. Great car until about year 4. Nothing but trouble after that. You can mock Toyota all day but they run better and longer and cheaper than Jeep. And I like jeeps. But I don’t confuse them with value and reliability.

4Runner all day.

quote:

Originally posted by RoverSig:
I'd suggest renting your target choices for a couple of days to give them each a try. The usual dealership "test drive" is too short to be of much value, IMHO.

I've never had any issue getting an extended (1-2 day) test drive in the last few cars I've bought.

Especially now, with dealers hurting for sales. My Mercedes dealer gave me the keys to my C300 for 3 days to test drive & while paperwork was being finalizzed (outside finance).