Back in 2021, Jeep announced the optional V8 engine for the two-row Grand Cherokee had limited status and the automaker has now confirmed that it’s being discontinued. Even though it’s now the middle of the 2023 model year, Jeep says the V8 will no longer be available for orders from customers and dealers across the country.
Originally a $3,295 option then made more expensive to $3,795, the 5.7-liter V8 isn’t even the most powerful engine available for the two-row Grand Cherokee. With 357 horsepower (262 kilowatts) and 390 pound-feet (529 pound-feet) of torque, it falls short in power and torque compared to the 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain, which develops 375 hp (276 kW) and 470 lb. -ft (637 Nm) of torque. PHEVs are also more efficient and give the SUV a better 0-60 miles per hour (0-96 kilometers per hour) acceleration of 6.0 seconds versus 6.9 seconds for the V8-powered model.
Until now, the 5.7-liter V8 was optionally available in the Overland, Summit and Summit Reserve trim levels. Jeep spokesperson Kristin Starnes told Motor Authority The 4xe plug-in hybrid is the top-of-the-range powertrain for the five-seat Grand Cherokee. The only advantage the V8 has over the PHEV model is its towing rating of 7,200 pounds versus 6,000 pounds for the electric engine.
If you still want a Grand Cherokee with a V8, your only option going forward is the larger three-row version. It will continue to be available with the 5.7 V8, giving it the same 7,200 pound tow rating as the two-row model. The SUV, however, has a different suspension setup and a longer wheelbase.
Motor Authority also reports that Jeep is expected to soon introduce its new twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine to the Grand Cherokee lineup, bumping up the towing rating back to just over 7,000 pounds. This unit is more powerful than all of the brand’s V8 engines, as well as the plug-in hybrid powertrain of the 4xe. A company spokesman did not comment on whether and when the in-line six-cylinder engine would be released for the Grand Cherokee family.
