The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee stands as our Best SUV To Buy, a testament to its enduring appeal and versatile nature in a crowded market. In a segment that has exploded with new models and evolving definitions over the last decade, the Grand Cherokee has not only kept pace but continues to set the standard for what a sport utility vehicle should be. Its consistent performance and broad capabilities make it a familiar and comforting choice for those seeking the best SUV in 2020.
Defining the “best SUV” is no simple task. The term itself has become increasingly broad, encompassing everything from compact crossovers to large, three-row family haulers. Historically, SUVs were associated with rugged, body-on-frame construction, similar to pickup trucks. However, the Jeep Grand Cherokee broke from this mold early on. Since its introduction in 1993, it has utilized unibody construction, a design shared with most modern crossover SUVs, offering a blend of car-like comfort and SUV capability.
So why designate the Grand Cherokee as the best when the SUV category is so diverse? For us, “best SUV” means more than just passenger space or fuel efficiency. It includes the traditional SUV strengths of towing and off-road prowess, combined with on-road comfort and modern features. And in 2020, no SUV package is as complete and compelling as the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee. This isn’t the first time the Grand Cherokee has earned this accolade; it was also named our Best SUV To Buy 2018, proving its consistent excellence. Our rigorous testing process, covering hundreds of vehicles and thousands of miles annually, consistently places the Grand Cherokee at the top, evidenced by its impressive 6.5 out of 10 TCC rating.
The appeal of the Grand Cherokee is immediate. Its iconic Jeep design, featuring the signature seven-slot grille, a commanding front end, and muscular proportions, gives it a timeless yet modern aesthetic. It has long been a leader in athletic SUV styling. While the interior design reflects its age to some extent, this can be seen as an advantage by drivers who appreciate straightforward controls and user-friendly infotainment systems. It avoids the trend of overwhelming, oversized touchscreens, instead offering a balanced and intuitive interface, coupled with premium trim options for a luxurious feel that doesn’t compromise on capability.
Capability truly defines the Grand Cherokee. It boasts an impressive range of five different powertrains, starting with a capable 295-horsepower V-6 and escalating to the monstrous 707-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 found in the high-performance Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. Even the base V-6 engine provides a substantial towing capacity of up to 6,200 pounds, while V-8 models can handle up to 7,200 lbs. Equipped with Jeep’s renowned 4×4 systems, red tow hooks, and durable skid plates, the 2020 Grand Cherokee is ready for challenging off-road adventures, from rocky trails to sandy dunes, all while maintaining a comfortable and refined ride.
The 2020 Grand Cherokee caters to a wide spectrum of preferences with nine distinct trim levels, from the entry-level Laredo to the luxurious Summit. Across the range, Grand Cherokees are well-equipped, featuring 17-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual USB ports, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, power windows and locks, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and a user-friendly 7.0-inch touchscreen.
While its safety ratings and fuel economy figures are less impressive, reflecting its age in the market, the core strengths of the Grand Cherokee remain undeniable. Jeep would be wise to build upon these positives in future redesigns – its genuine off-road capability, extensive feature list, and competitive pricing – while addressing areas for improvement like safety and efficiency with modern powertrain options. The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee proves that even in a rapidly evolving SUV landscape, a well-rounded and consistently capable vehicle can remain the best choice.
