Owner feedback on the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo reviews frequently highlights its comfortable ride and updated technology features. This SUV balances everyday practicality with off-road capability, making it a popular choice for families and adventurers alike. You will find that the Laredo trim offers a strong value proposition in the midsize SUV segment.
The 2023 model year brings several refinements over previous versions. Jeep focused on improving interior quality and adding standard safety tech. Let’s break down what real owners and experts are saying about this vehicle.
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Reviews
When you read through owner forums and professional test drives, a few themes stand out. The Laredo is often praised for its smooth highway manners and quiet cabin. However, some note that the base engine feels a bit underpowered for passing.
Here are the key takeaways from the most common feedback:
- Comfortable ride quality on paved roads
- User-friendly infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay
- Good fuel economy for its size class
- Some interior materials feel budget-friendly
- Off-road capability is decent but not as rugged as Trailhawk trim
Performance And Engine Options
The standard engine in the 2023 Laredo is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 293 horsepower. It pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Most owners say this combo is smooth and responsive for daily driving.
One common complaint is that the V6 can feel strained when accelerating onto highways or climbing steep grades. If you tow often, you might want to consider the optional 5.7-liter V8, but that is only available on higher trims.
Fuel economy is respectable. The EPA estimates 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for rear-wheel drive models. All-wheel drive drops those numbers slightly to 18/25 mpg.
Real-world owner reports often match these figures closely. One owner noted getting 24 mpg on a long highway trip with the AWD version. That is solid for a vehicle of this size.
Interior Comfort And Technology
The cabin of the Laredo is where Jeep made the biggest improvements. The dashboard design is clean and modern. You get a standard 8.4-inch touchscreen that is easy to use.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. This is a big plus for many buyers who hate dealing with cables. The system responds quickly and the graphics are sharp.
Seat comfort is generally good for long drives. The front seats offer decent support, though some taller drivers wish for more thigh support. Rear seat room is generous for adults, even on longer trips.
One area where the Laredo shows its entry-level status is in material quality. You will find hard plastics on the lower door panels and dashboard. Higher trims get softer touch surfaces, but the Laredo keeps costs down with more durable materials.
Owners often mention that the cabin is very quiet at highway speeds. Wind and road noise are well suppressed. This makes the Grand Cherokee a relaxing vehicle for road trips.
Storage And Cargo Space
Cargo capacity is competitive for the class. Behind the rear seats, you get 35.6 cubic feet of space. Folding the rear seats down opens up 70.8 cubic feet. That is enough for furniture, camping gear, or a large dog.
Small item storage is decent. The center console is deep and the door pockets can hold water bottles. There is also a handy bin for your phone with a wireless charging pad available.
Safety Features And Ratings
The 2023 Grand Cherokee Laredo comes with a strong set of standard safety features. You get forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
Adaptive cruise control is optional on the Laredo. Many owners recommend adding it if you do a lot of highway driving. It works smoothly and reduces fatigue on long trips.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Grand Cherokee top scores in most crash tests. It earned a Top Safety Pick rating for the 2023 model year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it five stars overall.
One safety feature that gets mixed reviews is the lane keeping system. Some owners find it too intrusive and turn it off. Others appreciate the gentle steering correction on highways.
Off-Road Capability
Even the base Laredo has decent ground clearance at 8.4 inches. This is higher than many competitors like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander. You can tackle light trails and dirt roads with confidence.
Jeep offers an optional Quadra-Trac I all-wheel drive system. It provides good traction in snow and mud. For more serious off-roading, you would need the Quadra-Drive II system with a rear electronic limited-slip differential, but that is only on higher trims.
Owners who take their Laredo off-road say it handles moderate trails well. The suspension absorbs bumps nicely. Just dont expect rock crawling capability without upgrading to a Trailhawk.
Common Complaints And Issues
No vehicle is perfect, and the 2023 Grand Cherokee Laredo has its share of owner complaints. Here are the most frequently mentioned problems:
- Infotainment screen glitches: Some owners report the screen freezing or restarting randomly. This usually requires a software update at the dealer.
- Transmission hesitation: A few drivers notice a slight delay when accelerating from a stop. This is more noticeable in stop-and-go traffic.
- Interior rattles: Some owners hear rattles from the dashboard or door panels on rough roads. This is more common in early production models.
- Fuel economy lower than expected: While EPA numbers are decent, some owners report getting only 17-18 mpg in city driving.
- Price creep: The Laredo starts around $38,000, but adding popular options can push it past $45,000 quickly.
Most of these issues are not deal-breakers. Jeep has addressed many with software updates and minor revisions during the model year.
How The Laredo Compares To Competitors
The midsize SUV segment is crowded. Here is how the 2023 Grand Cherokee Laredo stacks up against key rivals:
Honda Pilot: The Pilot offers more interior space and a third row as standard. It also has a more refined V6 engine. However, the Jeep feels more premium inside and has better off-road capability.
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander is known for reliability and resale value. It also offers a hybrid option. The Jeep has a more engaging driving experience and a better infotainment system.
Ford Explorer: The Explorer has more powerful engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder. The Jeep has a nicer interior and a smoother ride.
Hyundai Santa Fe: The Santa Fe offers more features for the money and a longer warranty. The Jeep has a more rugged image and better off-road chops.
Overall, the Grand Cherokee Laredo stands out for its combination of comfort, technology, and off-road ability. It is a strong choice if you want a vehicle that can handle both daily commuting and weekend adventures.
Is The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Worth Buying?
If you are looking for a well-rounded midsize SUV, the Laredo is worth serious consideration. It offers a comfortable ride, modern tech, and decent off-road capability at a reasonable price.
However, you should be aware of its limitations. The base engine is adequate but not exciting. The interior materials are not as upscale as some rivals. And the price can climb quickly with options.
Here is a quick checklist to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize comfort and technology? Yes, the Laredo delivers.
- Do you need third-row seating? The Grand Cherokee does not offer it. Look at the Grand Cherokee L or competitors.
- Do you plan to off-road regularly? The Laredo is capable for light trails, but consider the Trailhawk for serious use.
- Is fuel economy a top concern? The Laredo is average for its class. A hybrid might be better.
Most owners are happy with their purchase. They appreciate the balance of daily usability and weekend fun. If you test drive one, pay attention to how the engine feels on the highway and check for any interior rattles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo?
A: The EPA estimates 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for rear-wheel drive models. All-wheel drive gets 18/25 mpg. Real-world results vary but often match these numbers.
Q: Does the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo have a third row?
A: No, the standard Grand Cherokee Laredo is a two-row SUV. If you need a third row, look at the Grand Cherokee L or competitors like the Honda Pilot.
Q: Is the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo reliable?
A: Owner feedback is generally positive. Some early models had infotainment glitches and minor interior rattles, but most issues are resolved with updates. The powertrain is proven and reliable.
Q: Can the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo go off-road?
A: Yes, it has 8.4 inches of ground clearance and available all-wheel drive. It handles light trails and dirt roads well. For serious off-roading, consider the Trailhawk trim.
Q: What is the starting price of the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo?
A: The base price is around $38,000. Adding options like all-wheel drive, a sunroof, or upgraded audio can push the price to $45,000 or more.
In summary, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo reviews show a vehicle that does many things well. It is comfortable, tech-savvy, and capable enough for most drivers. If you can live with its few compromises, it is a solid choice in the midsize SUV market. Take one for a test drive and see if it fits your lifestyle.