2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overview
The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee marked a significant refresh for the beloved SUV, blending its renowned off-road capabilities with a more refined on-road demeanor and updated styling. It offered a compelling package for those seeking versatility, comfort, and the Jeep brand's adventurous spirit.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The Grand Cherokee offered two potent and well-regarded engine choices:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: This standard engine provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, delivering ample performance for daily driving and occasional light off-roading. It was smooth and capable, making it a solid choice for most buyers.
- 5.7L HEMI V8: For those desiring more robust performance and towing capability, the optional HEMI V8 delivered exhilarating acceleration and significantly increased towing capacity. This engine was ideal for heavy-duty hauling or for drivers who enjoyed a more spirited driving experience.
- Safety Features: The 2014 Grand Cherokee was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, designed to protect occupants and assist the driver:
- Advanced Multistage Front Airbags: These airbags deploy with varying force based on occupant size and crash severity, offering optimal protection.
- Supplemental Side-Curtain Airbags (Front and Rear): These airbags deploy from the roofline to protect occupants in side-impact collisions.
- Driver's Knee Airbag: Provides an extra layer of protection for the driver's legs in frontal impacts.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skidding and rollovers by automatically applying brakes and reducing engine power when it detects a loss of steering control.
- All-Speed Traction Control: Prevents wheel spin during acceleration, improving grip on slippery surfaces.
- Hill Start Assist: Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline.
- Hill Descent Control: Regulates vehicle speed when descending steep slopes, allowing the driver to focus on steering.
- ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera: Provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when in reverse, aiding in parking and avoiding obstacles.
- ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist System: Uses ultrasonic sensors to detect obstacles and alert the driver during parking maneuvers.
- Available Advanced Safety Group: This optional package included features like Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross-Path Detection, further enhancing safety and driver awareness.
- Trim Levels: The 2014 Grand Cherokee was available in several distinct trims, each offering a progressively higher level of luxury, features, and capability:
- Laredo: The well-equipped base model, providing essential comfort and convenience features for everyday use.
- Altitude: A stylish variant often featuring unique exterior and interior appointments, offering a more personalized look.
- Limited: Stepping up in luxury, the Limited trim added features like leather-trimmed seats, heated front and rear seats, and upgraded audio systems.
- Overland: Positioned as a premium offering, the Overland boasted luxurious features such as premium leather upholstery, a dual-pane sunroof, and advanced navigation systems, along with enhanced off-road capabilities.
- Summit: The pinnacle of the Grand Cherokee lineup, the Summit offered the ultimate in luxury, refinement, and technology, including premium Nappa leather, enhanced acoustic insulation, and a host of advanced driver-assistance systems.
- Jeep's Signature Off-Road Prowess: Even with its refined on-road manners, the Grand Cherokee retained its legendary Jeep DNA. Available Quadra-Trac II 4WD system with a low-range gear set and the Selec-Terrain traction control system (allowing drivers to select different terrain modes like Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock) made it exceptionally capable in challenging off-road conditions.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee typically involves a comfortable and capable experience. The ride quality is generally smooth, making it suitable for long commutes and family road trips. The interior is well-appointed and offers ample space for passengers and cargo.
Maintenance: Like most SUVs, routine maintenance will include oil changes, tire rotations, filter replacements, and brake inspections. The Pentastar V6 is generally reliable, but like any engine, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure longevity. The HEMI V8 may have slightly higher maintenance costs due to its larger displacement and increased complexity. It's advisable to follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule. As a used vehicle, expect to address wear-and-tear items like tires, brakes, and potentially suspension components depending on the vehicle's mileage and previous usage, especially if it has been used for off-roading.
Insurance: Insurance costs will vary based on factors such as your location, driving record, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim and engine of the Grand Cherokee. SUVs generally tend to have slightly higher insurance premiums than smaller sedans. Given its advanced safety features (especially if equipped with optional packages), some insurance providers may offer discounts.
Potential Considerations
While the 2014 Grand Cherokee is a highly capable and well-rounded SUV, there are a few points potential buyers should be aware of:
- Infotainment System: While the Uconnect infotainment system was a step up for Jeep, some users found the interface less intuitive or responsive compared to some competitors of the same era.
- Fuel Economy: The V6 engine offers respectable fuel economy for its class, but the HEMI V8 will naturally consume more fuel, especially in city driving.
- Potential for Previous Off-Road Use: Given its off-road capabilities, some Grand Cherokees may have been subjected to more rigorous use than others. Inspecting for signs of significant off-road abuse (e.g., underbody damage, worn suspension components) is recommended, especially if purchasing a model marketed for its 4x4 prowess.
- Electrical Gremlins: As with many vehicles equipped with numerous electronic features, some owners have reported occasional minor electrical issues. Thoroughly testing all electronic systems during a pre-purchase inspection is advisable.
Overall Summary
The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee represented a significant step forward for the model, masterfully blending its legendary off-road capabilities with a more sophisticated and comfortable on-road driving experience. With its potent engine options, extensive safety features, and available luxury amenities, it was a versatile and highly desirable SUV that appealed to a wide range of buyers. While potential buyers should be mindful of general vehicle maintenance and potential minor electrical quirks, the 2014 Grand Cherokee remains a strong contender for those seeking an SUV that can confidently handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
