Jeep phased out the 5.7-liter V-8 in the Grand Cherokee by late 2022. Roughly a year later, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer also bid farewell to the Hemi engine. Now, the Grand Cherokee L is also set to lose its eight-cylinder engine. Previously available in the higher-end Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve trims, this engine was quietly discontinued in the third quarter of 2024. With the V-8 no longer available, the Grand Cherokee L joins other models that have recently lost V-8 power.
Motor Authority confirmed with a Jeep spokesperson that the company has discontinued the larger engine. While this news is disheartening, it's unlikely to be missed by many. During the 2024 model year, the V-8's take rate was less than 4%. The absence of the V-8 also affects the maximum towing capacity. The Grand Cherokee L equipped with the Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 can now tow up to 6,200 pounds, a reduction of 1,000 pounds compared to the Hemi. Additionally, the smaller engine offers 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, significantly less than the V-8's 357 hp and 390 lb-ft.
Rumors suggest that the 2025 model year will see the Pentastar engine phased out as well. Mopar Insiders reports that Jeep may introduce a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder Hurricane engine, similar to the one found in the Wrangler, which delivers 270 hp and 295 lb-ft. There are also whispers of an Evo version of this engine, potentially surpassing 300 hp. Interestingly, the Grand Cherokee L is expected to skip the electrified 4xe treatment, leaving only the regular model with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
If these rumors hold true, the updated Grand Cherokee L will be exclusively a four-cylinder model, unlike its predecessor with both V-6 and V-8 options. As we approach October, the 2025 model year is likely just around the corner, so we should soon discover the truth behind these speculations.
