The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo offers a refined ride and a user-friendly infotainment system. It stands as the entry-level trim for one of the most popular midsize SUVs on the market. This model balances everyday comfort with genuine off-road capability. Many buyers find it to be a solid value in the used SUV segment.
The Laredo trim includes a powerful V6 engine as standard. It also comes with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. You get a comfortable interior with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The Uconnect system is easy to use and responsive. Let’s break down everything you need to know about this vehicle.
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo is a versatile SUV that fits many lifestyles. It is not the flashiest trim, but it offers a strong foundation. You get the core Grand Cherokee experience without paying for luxury extras. This makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Laredo comes with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. It produces 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. Fuel economy is respectable at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Standard Features And Equipment
The base Laredo trim includes a good amount of standard equipment. You get 17-inch aluminum wheels as standard. The exterior features halogen headlights and fog lights. There are also roof rails for carrying extra gear. The power liftgate makes loading cargo easier.
Inside, you get cloth upholstery and a six-way power driver seat. The front seats are heated on some models. The Uconnect 5.0 infotainment system includes a 5-inch touchscreen. Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port are standard. A six-speaker sound system provides decent audio quality.
Performance And Engine Options
The standard V6 engine provides ample power for daily driving. It can tow up to 6,200 pounds when properly equipped. This is enough for a small boat or a camping trailer. The optional 5.7-liter V8 engine is available on higher trims. The Laredo is rear-wheel drive by default.
Four-wheel drive is an available option for better traction. The Quadra-Trac I system is a full-time system. It sends power to all four wheels automatically. This system works well in snow and light off-road conditions. The Laredo handles well on paved roads for a large SUV.
Interior Comfort And Space
The interior of the 2018 Grand Cherokee Laredo is spacious and comfortable. The front seats offer good support for long drives. The rear seats can fit three adults with moderate comfort. There is 35.7 inches of rear legroom available. Cargo space measures 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
Folding the rear seats down gives you 68.3 cubic feet of space. This is enough for furniture or large luggage. The cabin is reasonably quiet at highway speeds. Some road noise is noticeable on rough pavement. The materials used are durable but not luxurious.
Technology And Infotainment
The Uconnect system is one of the best in the industry. It responds quickly to touch inputs. The menu layout is logical and easy to navigate. Bluetooth pairing is simple and reliable. You can make hands-free calls and stream music easily.
The base system lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This is a common complaint among owners. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system adds a larger screen. It also includes navigation and smartphone integration. Upgrading to the larger screen is worth considering.
Safety Features And Ratings
The 2018 Grand Cherokee Laredo comes with basic safety features. You get a rearview camera and rear parking sensors. Traction control and stability control are standard. The SUV earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. The IIHS gave it good ratings in most crash tests.
Advanced safety features are available as options. These include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Forward collision warning is also optional. Adaptive cruise control is not available on the Laredo trim. These features are more common on higher trims.
Driving Experience And Ride Quality
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo delivers a comfortable ride. The suspension absorbs bumps and potholes well. The steering is light and easy to maneuver in the city. The SUV feels stable on the highway at higher speeds. Body roll is noticeable in tight corners.
The V6 engine provides adequate acceleration for merging. The transmission shifts smoothly in normal driving. The brakes are strong and provide good stopping power. The overall driving experience is relaxed and composed. It is not a sporty SUV, but it is pleasant to drive.
Off-Road Capability
The Grand Cherokee has a reputation for off-road ability. The Laredo trim is not the most capable version. It lacks the air suspension and low-range gearing. However, it can handle light off-road trails. The four-wheel-drive system provides good traction on loose surfaces.
Ground clearance is 8.6 inches on the Laredo. This is enough for most dirt roads and mild trails. The SUV can ford water up to 20 inches deep. It is not designed for rock crawling or extreme terrain. For serious off-roading, consider the Trailhawk trim.
Common Problems And Reliability
The 2018 Grand Cherokee Laredo has some known issues. The most common problem is with the Uconnect system freezing. Some owners report the transmission hesitating at low speeds. The air conditioning system can fail on some models. These issues are not widespread but are worth noting.
Overall reliability is average for the segment. The V6 engine is generally reliable with proper maintenance. Regular oil changes and fluid checks are important. The SUV has a good track record for long-term durability. Many owners report high mileage without major problems.
Fuel Economy And Costs
Fuel economy is a consideration for this large SUV. The EPA estimates 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Real-world driving often yields around 21 mpg combined. This is average for a midsize SUV with a V6 engine. The fuel tank holds 24.6 gallons of gas.
Annual fuel costs are around $2,300 based on average driving. Insurance costs are moderate for this class of vehicle. Maintenance costs are typical for a Jeep product. Parts are readily available and reasonably priced. Overall ownership costs are manageable.
Comparison With Competitors
The 2018 Grand Cherokee Laredo competes with many other SUVs. The Ford Explorer offers similar space and capability. The Toyota 4Runner is more off-road focused but less refined. The Honda Pilot provides better fuel economy and interior space. The Grand Cherokee stands out for its balance of comfort and off-road ability.
The Laredo is often cheaper than its rivals when used. It offers a more upscale interior than the 4Runner. The Uconnect system is better than Ford’s Sync system. The Grand Cherokee has a more classic SUV look. It appeals to buyers who want a traditional SUV feel.
Buying Tips For The 2018 Laredo
When shopping for a used 2018 Laredo, check the maintenance history. Look for models with the optional Uconnect 8.4 system. This upgrade improves the infotainment experience significantly. Four-wheel drive is worth the extra cost if you live in snowy areas. Test drive multiple examples to find one in good condition.
Check for any outstanding recalls on the vehicle. The 2018 model had a recall for the rearview camera. Make sure the recall work has been completed. Inspect the tires for even wear and adequate tread. Listen for any unusual noises from the engine or transmission.
Trim Levels And Packages
The 2018 Grand Cherokee comes in several trim levels. The Laredo is the base model with the most features. The Laredo E adds leather seats and a power liftgate. The Limited includes more luxury features and options. The Overland and Summit are top-tier luxury trims.
The Trailhawk is the off-road focused version. The SRT and Trackhawk are high-performance models. The Laredo offers the best value for most buyers. It includes essential features without unnecessary extras. The Laredo E is a good middle ground if you want leather.
Available Packages For The Laredo
The Laredo offers several option packages. The Cold Weather Group adds heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The Luxury Group includes leather upholstery and a power liftgate. The Technology Group adds a larger touchscreen and navigation. The Trailering Package includes a hitch and wiring harness.
These packages can add significant value to the Laredo. Look for a used model with the packages you want. They are often worth the extra cost. The Cold Weather Group is popular in colder climates. The Technology Group improves the infotainment experience.
Resale Value And Depreciation
The 2018 Grand Cherokee Laredo holds its value reasonably well. It depreciates slower than many competitors. The strong brand reputation helps maintain resale value. The SUV is in high demand in the used market. This means you can expect a good return when selling.
Depreciation is about 40% after five years. This is better than average for the segment. The Laredo trim holds value better than higher trims. Four-wheel-drive models retain value slightly better. Keeping the vehicle in good condition helps preserve value.
Modifications And Customization
Many owners customize their Grand Cherokee Laredo. Popular modifications include upgrading the wheels and tires. Adding a lift kit can improve off-road capability. Aftermarket bumpers and accessories are widely available. Performance upgrades like cold air intakes are also common.
Interior upgrades include adding floor mats and seat covers. A trailer hitch is a practical addition for towing. Roof racks can increase cargo capacity. The Grand Cherokee has a strong aftermarket support. You can personalize it to fit your specific needs.
Long-Term Ownership Experience
Owning a 2018 Grand Cherokee Laredo is generally positive. The SUV is reliable with regular maintenance. The comfortable ride makes it great for road trips. The cargo space is useful for families and outdoor activities. The V6 engine provides enough power for most situations.
Some owners report minor issues over time. The Uconnect system may need a software update. The suspension can develop squeaks after many miles. Overall, the SUV is durable and long-lasting. Many owners keep their Grand Cherokee for over 100,000 miles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Towing Capacity Of The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo?
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo can tow up to 6,200 pounds when equipped with the V6 engine and the optional Trailer Tow Package. This is enough for a small boat, a camper trailer, or a utility trailer.
Does The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Have Apple CarPlay?
No, the base 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo does not have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. These features are only available with the optional Uconnect 8.4 system found on higher trims or with the Technology Group package.
Is The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Good For Off-roading?
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo can handle light off-road trails and dirt roads thanks to its available four-wheel-drive system and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. However, it is not designed for extreme off-roading like the Trailhawk trim.
What Engine Does The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Have?
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo comes standard with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
How Reliable Is The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo?
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo has average reliability for its class. The V6 engine is generally reliable, but some owners report issues with the Uconnect system and transmission hesitation. Regular maintenance is important for long-term durability.
Final Thoughts
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo is a solid choice for a used midsize SUV. It offers a comfortable ride, good performance, and decent off-road capability. The standard features are adequate for most buyers. The Uconnect system is user-friendly and responsive. Overall, it provides good value for the money.
If you are looking for a versatile SUV that does not break the bank, the Laredo is worth considering. It handles daily driving well and can handle weekend adventures. The reliability is average, but the engine is proven. With proper care, it can serve you for many years. The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo remains a popular and capable option in the used market.