Jeep has been on a tear introducing new models lately, with its three-row Grand Cherokee notably selling like proverbial hotcakes. In fact, the Grand Cherokee L is the brand’s best-selling model behind the Wrangler so far this year, accounting for 5,112 sales, or roughly one in every seven Jeeps sold to date in the 2022 calendar year.
One big change in the lineup for 2023? The capable Grand Cherokee Trailhawk will only be offered with in 4xe guise. For those of you with short memories, that’s the hybrid powertrain in which a 2.0L turbocharged engine tag teams two electric motors to produce a healthy 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Both those numbers outstrip even the V8 option available in the ’22 GC Trailhawk, and leave the 3.6L V6 in their electrified dust.
Stellantis Canada officials confirmed to this publication this change will apply to our market, as well, though were mum on if the adjustment was in response to market demand or parts availability.
Still, while it is always cause for pause when options vanish from an order sheet (along with a V8 rumble), this author is not overly disappointed. The 4xe powertrain is well-suited for off-road duty since its driving modes permit all-electric motoring if conditions permit (and they generally do), with the rig able to cover roughly 40 kilometres without ever firing the gasoline-fuelled engine.
While it does take a minute to acclimate in off-road scenarios to the instant torque provided by those electric motors, the ability to climb up and over obstacles with relatively little throttle movement is a treat. Remember, EV gubbins provide all their grunt right from rest. One downfall with the 4xe: while the V6 and V8 can tow 6,200 lbs and 7,200 lbs, respectively, the hybrid is good for only 6,000 pounds of hauling grunt.
This will mean that anyone seeking a taste of hot Trailhawk action in the Grand Cherokee will need to fork out significantly more money. While pricing is not yet released in this country for 2023, a ’22 GC Trailhawk with the V6 stickers at $66,840 (add $3,695 for the V8) while a GC 4xe costs $77,790. All Grand Cherokee Trailhawks come with a raft of dandy off-road gear, including an electronic limited-slip diff out back, two-speed transfer case, and 10.9 inches of ground clearance.
Keyword: Strong, Silent Type: 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk to feature hybrid power only