Adventure Awaits: The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe PHEV
03 Nov 2023
2022 marked a significant milestone in the world of SUVs, as Jeep website introduced its highly anticipated, electrified version of the Grand Cherokee. With the automotive industry’s growing focus on sustainability and electrification, Jeep’s decision to infuse its iconic off-road prowess with hybrid technology was met with eager anticipation. In this review, we’ll delve into the trail-conquering capabilities, eco-friendly innovations, and the overall driving experience that the Jeep website offers, as it represents a bold step forward for one of North America’s most cherished off-road brands.
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe
Let’s take a closer look at the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe.
Exterior
The exterior design perfectly embodies the brand’s rugged and adventurous spirit. With its bold, aggressive stance and distinctive Trailhawk styling cues, this SUV is a true head-turner on and off the road. The front fascia features a signature seven-slot grille with a dark, menacing finish, flanked by powerful LED headlights and fog lights that not only enhance visibility but also add a touch of modernity to its classic Jeep heritage. The sculpted body lines and flared wheel arches exude an aura of strength and capability, while the exclusive Trailhawk badging and distinctive light blue tow hooks (available only on the Trailhawk and Overland models) provide a visual reminder of its off-road prowess. With its combination of modern elements and timeless Jeep design, the 2023 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe strikes an impressive balance between rugged aesthetics and contemporary style, making it an enticing choice for adventure enthusiasts and urban explorers alike.
Rating: 9.0
Interior
The interior perfectly complements its rugged exterior prowess. The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe’s cabin exudes a blend of modernity and off-road functionality, with a thoughtful emphasis on quality materials. Soft-touch surfaces, premium leather upholstery, and meticulously crafted details adorn the interior, creating an inviting and comfortable space for passengers. The styling exudes a distinctive Jeep character, with a driver-centric design that features a well-organized dashboard and intuitive controls. The incorporation of advanced technology is evident in the large touchscreen infotainment system, which provides a seamless interface for entertainment, navigation, and connectivity. Considering the rugged all-terrain tires that are strapped on the 18-inch wheels of the Trailhawk Edition, the cabin noise is not as bad as one would think. Overall, the 2023 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe’s interior delivers a harmonious balance of luxury and practicality, ensuring a pleasurable driving experience both on and off the beaten path.
Rating: 9.0
Power
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe combines power and efficiency with its innovative hybrid powertrain. Under the hood, you’ll find a fuel-efficient 2.0-litre turbocharged I-4 engine that works in harmony with two electric motors and the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination not only ensures that the vehicle can conquer challenging terrains with ease but also provides impressive fuel efficiency, reducing the environmental footprint. The plug-in hybrid system offers a robust power output, delivering the kind of muscle you’d expect from a Jeep, making it well-suited for both daily commuting and off-road adventures. The engine size and hybrid technology represent a modern approach to performance, catering to those who desire power without sacrificing sustainability.
Thanks to the hybrid setup, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe offers swift and smooth acceleration, proving that going green doesn’t mean compromising on performance. The electric motor provides instant torque, complementing the gasoline engine, resulting in an exhilarating driving experience. Whether you’re merging onto the highway or tackling steep, unpaved trails, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe responds promptly and decisively, making it a versatile and powerful choice for those who demand both on-road refinement and off-road capability.
Rating: 8.5
Drive
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe delivers a driving experience that seamlessly blends power and precision. With a potent hybrid powertrain, it offers a thrilling combination of electric and gasoline power, providing impressive acceleration and efficiency. The sophisticated Quadra Trac II 4×4 system with a two-speed transfer case and adaptive air suspension ensures exceptional handling on a variety of terrains, from challenging off-road trails to smooth highways. Its robust suspension, along with a range of driving modes (Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, Mud/Sand), makes conquering rugged landscapes a breeze. Moreover, on the road, the Trailhawk 4xe’s responsive steering and well-tuned chassis offer a balanced and composed ride, even around tight corners. This Jeep’s ability to seamlessly transition between urban streets and adventurous off-road tracks makes it a versatile and capable vehicle for drivers seeking both comfort and off-road prowess in their daily commute.
Rating: 9.0
Fuel Economy
With its innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe combines the versatility and ruggedness Jeep is renowned for with an impressive level of efficiency. The 4xe system integrates a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery, allowing it to cover up to 42 kms solely on zero-emission electric power, which is a good achievement for a midsize SUV of this caliber.
One of the key highlights of the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe’s fuel economy is its potential for all-electric driving, making it an excellent choice for urban commuters and short-distance trips. By harnessing electric power, the vehicle can significantly reduce its environmental footprint and operating costs. In addition, the regenerative braking system further enhances efficiency by recapturing energy during deceleration and converting it back into electricity to recharge the battery, thus extending the electric driving range and enhancing overall fuel economy. Most of my in-town trips while driving this vehicle for the week were on full electric, thanks to regenerative braking and overnight charging.
The Trailhawk 4xe showcases Jeep’s commitment to sustainability without compromising its legendary off-road capabilities. This blend of fuel efficiency and rugged performance makes it an ideal choice for those seeking an eco-conscious SUV without sacrificing the adventurous spirit that Jeep vehicles are known for. With its decent fuel economy, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe aligns with the increasing demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions.
Rating: 9.5
Safety
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe is equipped with an advanced suite of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. These features work together to enhance the driver’s awareness and help prevent potential accidents on the road. Additionally, the Trailhawk 4xe is designed with a robust body structure and multiple airbags, providing a sturdy and protective cabin for passengers in case of a collision.
This vehicle incorporates blind-spot monitoring, which alerts the driver to the presence of vehicles in their blind spots, enhancing overall awareness on the road. The 10-inch windshield Head-up Display (HUD) allows the driver to keep their attention on the road while providing their speed. The lane departure warning system helps keep the vehicle within its designated lane by providing gentle steering inputs if the driver unintentionally drifts. To further bolster safety, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe includes a comprehensive airbag system and a sturdy body structure to protect occupants in case of a collision.
Jeep’s 360-degree surround-view camera system utilizes multiple cameras positioned around the vehicle to provide the driver with a comprehensive view of the car’s surroundings, making parking and navigating tight spaces a breeze. Furthermore, the Trailhawk 4xe comes with Jeep’s renowned off-road safety technology, including hill descent control and four-wheel-drive systems, ensuring that even in challenging terrains, drivers can confidently tackle the trails while keeping safety a top priority.
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe combines the best of both worlds, offering a thrilling off-road experience while prioritizing safety through an array of advanced technologies and robust engineering.
Rating: 9.0
Comfort
Vehicle comfort is a very important factor for me when selecting a vehicle. The B-pillar on the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe is a little too far forward, which made me have to squeeze into the cockpit. Once inside the cabin, you’ll immediately notice the generous headroom (even with the lowered, tapered roof), which ensures that even taller occupants can sit comfortably without feeling cramped.
The legroom is another standout feature. Both the driver and passengers can stretch their legs with ease, making long journeys a breeze. The rear seats are spacious, ensuring that even rear-seat passengers enjoy the same level of comfort. The cabin’s thoughtful design takes into consideration the needs of passengers, making it an excellent choice for families or those who appreciate the luxury of ample space.
Seat comfort in the Trailhawk 4xe is exceptional, with well-cushioned and supportive seats that provide a pleasant experience for long drives. The front 16-way adjustable front seats are super comfortable, allowing the driver and passengers to find the perfect position to suit their preferences. The high-quality materials used in the interior, combined with the plush seating, create an atmosphere of relaxation and luxury.
Rating: 8.5
Tech
At the heart of the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe’s tech experience is quite impressive. The front dashboard boasts sleek HVAC vents, a repositioned central control area for improved driver reach, and an impressive array of digital displays. These include a large 10.1-inch digital touchscreen display for the driver which is intuitive and responsive, a 10.25-inch interactive display for the front passenger, and an available high-definition rear-seat entertainment system equipped with Amazon Fire TV integration. Jeep’s Uconnect 5 system, known for its user-friendly interface, is integrated into the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe, providing seamless navigation, smartphone connectivity, and vehicle information, all at the driver’s fingertips.
In my humble opinion, Stellantis offers the best sound experience in their vehicles. This premium SUV is equipped with a high-quality audio system that delivers an immersive listening experience. With a combination of 9 amplified Alpine speakers, a subwoofer, and advanced acoustic technology, the stereo system ensures that every passenger can enjoy crisp and clear audio. Whether you’re jamming to your favourite tunes or immersing yourself in a podcast during a long drive, the audio quality remains top-notch, contributing to a truly luxurious driving experience.
The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe also offers a host of connectivity features to enhance convenience. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, drivers can seamlessly integrate their smartphones, allowing for hands-free calls, texts, and access to a wide range of apps. Additionally, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe comes equipped with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, turning the vehicle into a mobile hub for all passengers. This connectivity ensures that everyone on board can stay connected and entertained, even when venturing off the beaten path.
Rating: 9.5
Storage
The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe offers impressive cargo space that caters to the needs of both daily commuters and adventurous travelers. Behind the rear seats, you’ll find a generous cargo area that allows for ample storage capacity. With 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space available behind second-row seats, it provides plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats add versatility, allowing you to configure the space to accommodate both passengers and cargo. This is especially handy for those who require a combination of seating and storage flexibility during their journeys.
When the need for even more storage arises, folding down the rear seats reveals a cavernous cargo area that expands to a remarkable 70.8 cubic feet. This additional space is perfect for larger items, making the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe an excellent choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities or have an active lifestyle. The flat load floor and an under-floor storage compartment enhance convenience, while the available cargo management system allows you to organize your belongings effectively, ensuring everything is in its place.
Rating: 9.0
Value
With a base price of $77,595 CAD and a tested sticker price of $88,170 CAD, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe positions itself as a unique offering in the competitive SUV market. While this price tag might seem steep compared to some rivals in its class, it’s essential to consider the overall value that this Trailhawk 4xe brings to the table. While there are certainly more affordable options in the segment, the Trailhawk 4xe’s unique combination of capabilities and features makes it an appealing choice for those who appreciate its distinctive qualities. With its advanced powertrain, upscale interior, and off-road prowess, this Jeep variant offers a well-rounded package that’s well worth its premium price for drivers seeking the ultimate in both luxury and capability.
Rating: 8.5
Overall Rating
Based on the 10 different categories covered above, I gave the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe PHEV an overall score of 89.5.
Overall Score: 89.5
Specifications
The following are key specifications. For trim-specific specs, please visit the Jeep website.
Chassis
Vehicle Type: Four-door SUV
Construction: Steel uniframe
Front Suspension: Multi-link independent front suspension, coil springs, gas-charged, twin-tube coilover shock absorbers, all aluminum arms and knuckles
Rear Suspension: Multi-link rear suspension, coil spring, twin-tube shocks, all aluminum arms and knuckles
Front Brakes: 13.94 x 1.10 vented disc, 2.00 two-piston pin-slider caliper
Rear Brakes: 13.78 x 0.87 vented disc, 2.00 single-piston pin-slider EPB caliper
Wheels: 18×8 Machined face with Mid-Gloss Granite Crystal with Blue Accent
Tires: 265/60R18 Goodyear Wrangler Territory AT
Powertrain
Engine: 2.0 Litre Turbo I-4
Horsepower: 270 hp @ 5,250 rpm
Max. Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission: Automatic, Eight-Speed Overdrive
Driving System: 4×4
Recommended Fuel: Minimum unleaded regular, 87 octane
Maximum Towing Capacity: 6,000 lbs
Battery: Maintenance-free H7 700 CCA + Auxiliary 200 CCA on engine stop-start (ESS)
Battery Chemistry: Lithium Ion Li-NMC
Electric Range: 42 kms
Charging Modes: Level 1 — 120V AC, Level 2 — 240V AC
Operating Voltage: 260 – 400 VDC
Gross Capacity: 17.3 kWh
Maximum Charge Rate: 7.2 kW
Peak Combined Power: 375 hp @ 5,250 rpm
Peak Combined Torque: 470 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 116.7 in
Length: 193.5 in
Width: 984.6 in
Height: 70.8 in
Passenger Volume: 144.6 cu. ft.
Cargo volume behind first-row seats: 70.8 cu. ft.
Cargo volume behind second-row seats: 37.7 cu. ft.
Curb Weight: 5,521 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 6,900 lbs
Payload: 1,050 lbs
Fuel Economy
Combined: 10.0 L/100 km
City: 10.3 L/100 km
Highway: 9.7 L/100 km
Better Now by Collective Soul
Collective Soul always reminds me of my college years. Might be because the year I started college is when “Hints Allegations and Things Left Unsaid” came out, and I have been a fan ever since. Might be because I saw them 27 times in concert. Or it might be the saxophone solo in Better Now that just gets me in the mood for going for a long drive. Either way, their music is always great road trip material, and Better Now from 2004’s “Youth” album is no exception. While this tune failed to chart on the US Billboard Hot 100, it is one of my favourite songs from the Atlanta-based rock band.
Oh I’m newly calibrated
All shiny and clean
I’m your recent adaptation
Time to redefine me
I really hope you enjoyed this edition of Motor & Music featuring the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe and Better Now by Collective Soul.
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Craig Silva
Craig is a husband, father, team leader, travel and food writer, senior youth group coordinator, designer, brander, community builder, volunteer, and social media strategist. He likes to travel, go camping, go on road trips, watch movies, build stuff, operate the grill, and sing with his band. Craig is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and Travel Media Association of Canada. If you are a PR agency or brand and would like Craig to review a travel destination, vehicle, restaurant, product or service, please send him an email.
