Jeeps appeal to people with plans to tackle serious terrain, and one version of the 2023 Grand Cherokee is made explicitly for this purpose. It is the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, and this year, Jeep offers it exclusively as a two-row 4xe (pronounced “four-by-e”) model equipped with a PHEV powertrain.
A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine forms the foundation for this PHEV, which can travel up to 25 miles on a full battery charge before switching to gas-electric hybrid operation. It makes a healthy 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque and gets 23 mpg when you drive it as a hybrid. In addition, Jeep says it can tow 6,000 pounds.
In addition to the plug-in powertrain, Jeep fortifies the Grand Cherokee 4xe Trailhawk with numerous off-roading features. Highlights include the Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system with a limited-slip rear differential, a height-adjustable and adaptive air suspension providing up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance and 24 inches of water fording capability, and an electronically disconnecting stabilizer bar. In addition, to ensure maximum grip on terra firma, all-terrain tires wrap around exclusive 18-inch wheels.
In addition, the Trailhawk features hill ascent and descent control, Selec-Speed off-road cruise control, front recovery hooks, and a forward-facing camera system. Jeep also equips it with upgraded interior materials, ventilated front seats, a premium sound system and a navigation system. We would also spring for our choice of paint and the Advanced ProTech Group II, which equips this SUV with front and rear parking sensors and a surround-view camera system — practical when off-roading.
Even with the upgrades kept to a minimum, our Trailhawk would cost $69,785, including the destination charge. But it is eligible for a $3,750 federal tax credit and any state or local rebates available in your region. So there’s that.