The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and rearview camera. This trim sits above the base Laredo in the lineup, offering more value without jumping to a higher price point. If you are looking for a capable SUV that balances everyday comfort with off-road readiness, this model is a strong contender. It packs a lot of features for the money, making it a popular choice among used SUV buyers.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E. From performance specs to interior comfort, we cover it all. You will get a clear picture of what this SUV offers and whether it fits your needs.
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E Overview
The Laredo E trim adds several key upgrades over the standard Laredo. You get a power liftgate, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats. These features make daily driving more convenient and comfortable. The exterior also gets a few touches like fog lights and upgraded wheels.
Under the hood, the standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine delivers 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain provides smooth acceleration and decent fuel economy for a mid-size SUV. You can expect around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Four-wheel drive is optional, but the standard setup is rear-wheel drive. If you live in an area with snow or rough terrain, the Quadra-Trac I or Quadra-Drive II systems are worth considering. These systems enhance traction and stability in challenging conditions.
Key Features And Specifications
Here is a quick list of what you get with the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E:
- 3.6-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Rearview camera with dynamic grid lines
- Power liftgate for easy cargo access
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- Uconnect 4 system with 8.4-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Fog lights and upgraded 18-inch aluminum wheels
- Remote start system
These features make the Laredo E a well-equipped SUV for its class. The Uconnect system is particularly praised for its user-friendly interface and fast response times. You can connect your smartphone easily for navigation, music, and calls.
Interior Comfort And Cargo Space
The cabin of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E is spacious and comfortable. Front seats offer good support for long drives, and the rear seats provide ample legroom for adults. The materials used are durable but not luxury-grade, which is expected for this trim level.
Cargo space is generous. Behind the rear seats, you get 36.3 cubic feet of storage. Fold the rear seats down, and that expands to 68.3 cubic feet. This is enough for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The power liftgate makes loading and unloading easier, especially when your hands are full.
The interior also includes a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. This allows you to carry longer items while still seating a passenger in the back. The overall layout is practical and well-thought-out for family use.
Performance And Driving Experience
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E drives smoothly on paved roads. The suspension absorbs bumps well, and the cabin remains quiet at highway speeds. Steering is precise but not overly sporty, which suits the SUV’s character.
If you opt for four-wheel drive, the Grand Cherokee handles light off-road trails with ease. The Quadra-Trac I system is a full-time four-wheel drive that distributes torque automatically. For more serious off-roading, the Quadra-Drive II system adds a rear electronic limited-slip differential. This gives you better traction on slippery or uneven surfaces.
Towing capacity is also impressive. The V6 engine can tow up to 6,200 pounds when properly equipped. This is enough for a small boat, camper, or trailer. Make sure your vehicle has the tow package for maximum capacity.
Fuel Economy And Maintenance
Fuel economy for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E is average for its class. You will get about 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway with rear-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive models see a slight drop to 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. These numbers are competitive with rivals like the Ford Explorer and Toyota 4Runner.
Maintenance costs are reasonable. Jeep recommends oil changes every 6,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. Other routine services include tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks. The eight-speed transmission is generally reliable, but some owners report occasional rough shifting. Regular maintenance helps prevent major issues.
One common issue with the 2018 model is the Uconnect system freezing or lagging. This is usually fixed with a software update from the dealer. Another minor complaint is the lack of standard blind-spot monitoring on the Laredo E. You can add it as an option, but it is not included in the base price.
Safety And Reliability
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E earned good safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS gave it top scores in most crash tests, though headlight performance was rated as poor.
Standard safety features include:
- Rearview camera
- Electronic stability control
- Anti-lock brakes
- Front and side airbags
- Hill start assist
- Trailer sway control
Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These are part of the Technology Group package. If safety is a top priority, look for a used model with these options included.
Reliability ratings for the 2018 Grand Cherokee are average. J.D. Power gives it a score of 80 out of 100 for quality and reliability. Some owners report issues with the air suspension system on higher trims, but the Laredo E uses a conventional coil-spring suspension. This makes it more reliable and cheaper to repair.
Common Problems To Watch For
When buying a used 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E, check for these issues:
- Transmission hesitation or hard shifts
- Uconnect system glitches
- Power liftgate malfunction
- Water leaks from sunroof (if equipped)
- Battery drain in cold weather
Most of these problems are not widespread, but they are worth noting. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic can save you headaches later. Also, check the vehicle’s service history to ensure regular maintenance was performed.
Comparison With Competitors
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E competes with other mid-size SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet Traverse. Here is how it stacks up:
Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers more passenger space and a smoother ride on pavement. However, the Grand Cherokee has better off-road capability and a more refined interior.
Toyota 4Runner: The 4Runner is more rugged and reliable for off-roading. But it has a dated interior, worse fuel economy, and a harsher ride on the road. The Grand Cherokee is more comfortable for daily driving.
Chevrolet Traverse: The Traverse has more cargo space and better fuel economy. But it lacks the Grand Cherokee’s off-road chops and towing capacity. The Jeep also feels more premium inside.
Overall, the Grand Cherokee Laredo E strikes a good balance between on-road comfort and off-road ability. It is a versatile choice if you need an SUV that can handle both city streets and weekend adventures.
Pricing And Value
As of 2025, a used 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E typically costs between $22,000 and $28,000, depending on mileage, condition, and location. Four-wheel drive models usually cost about $2,000 more than rear-wheel drive versions.
This price range puts it in line with competitors. The Laredo E offers good value because it includes features that are optional on other trims. For example, heated seats and a power liftgate are not standard on the base Laredo. You get these upgrades without paying for a higher trim like the Limited.
Resale value is decent. Jeeps tend to hold their value well, especially if they are well-maintained. The Grand Cherokee’s reputation for durability helps keep depreciation in check.
Tips For Buying Used
When shopping for a used 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E, follow these steps:
- Check the vehicle history report for accidents or title issues.
- Test drive the car on different road surfaces to feel for transmission issues.
- Inspect the power liftgate for smooth operation.
- Verify that the Uconnect system works properly and connects to your phone.
- Look for signs of water damage inside the cabin, especially around the sunroof.
- Ask about any outstanding recalls and ensure they were addressed.
Taking these steps can help you avoid common pitfalls and find a reliable vehicle. If possible, buy from a certified pre-owned program for added peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo And Laredo E?
The Laredo E adds heated front seats, a power liftgate, leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lights, and upgraded wheels. It also includes the Uconnect 4 system with a larger touchscreen. These upgrades make the Laredo E a better value than the base Laredo.
Does The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E Have Apple CarPlay?
Yes, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. You can connect your smartphone via USB to access navigation, music, and hands-free calling.
Is The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E Reliable?
Overall, reliability is average. Some owners report transmission issues and Uconnect glitches, but these are not universal. Regular maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection can help ensure a trouble-free experience.
Can The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E Tow A Trailer?
Yes, when properly equipped, the V6 engine can tow up to 6,200 pounds. This is sufficient for small boats, campers, or utility trailers. Make sure the vehicle has the factory tow package for maximum capacity.
What Is The Fuel Economy Of The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E?
With rear-wheel drive, you get 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Four-wheel drive models achieve 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. These numbers are competitive for a mid-size SUV.
Final Thoughts On The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E is a solid choice if you want a capable SUV with good features for the price. It offers a comfortable ride, decent off-road ability, and a well-equipped interior. The V6 engine provides enough power for daily driving and towing.
While it has some minor drawbacks, like average fuel economy and occasional tech glitches, these are outweighed by its overall value. If you find a well-maintained example with a clean history, it can serve you well for years to come.
Before buying, always test drive and inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Look for the optional safety packages if those features matter to you. With careful shopping, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo E can be a reliable and enjoyable SUV for your lifestyle.