2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is an updated 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with more power and better fuel economy. This is otherwise a light-update year rather than a redesign.
About the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
WK generation (2005-2010), after the 2008 refresh and one year before the all-new 2011 redesign.
For 2009, Jeep positions the Grand Cherokee as a midsize SUV for shoppers who want true Jeep trail ability and real towing strength without giving up an upscale cabin. The brand leans on its choice of 4x4 systems, Trail Rated off-road credibility, strong engine lineup, and a more premium feel than many truck-based rivals. Compared with softer crossovers, this Grand Cherokee is the pick for buyers who still want rugged hardware, not just SUV styling.
The Laredo is the practical everyday version, while the Limited adds leather, heated seats, navigation, and parking aids. The Overland emphasizes luxury and towing equipment, and the SRT8 pairs a 6.1-liter HEMI V8 with performance brakes, a lowered suspension, and full-time four-wheel drive.
What changed, by category
2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, HEMI, 6.1 Liter | V6, 3.7 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.7 Liter / V6, Turbo Dsl 3.0L / V8, 4.7 Liter | V6, Turbo Dsl 3.0L / V8, HEMI, 5.7 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.7 Liter / V6, 3.7 Liter / V8, 4.7 Liter | V8, HEMI, 5.7 Liter / V6, Turbo Dsl 3.0L |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Auto, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Auto, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Auto, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas / Flexible Fuel / Diesel | Diesel / Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Diesel |
| MPG City | 11 mpg | 14–15 mpg | 14–15 mpg | 13 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 14 mpg | 19–20 mpg | 19–20 mpg | 19 mpg |
| Horsepower | 420 hp | 210–305 hp | 210–357 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 420 lb-ft | 235–375 lb-ft | 235–389 lb-ft | 375 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 6500 lb | 7200 lb | 7200 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 67.4 cu-ft | 66.8 cu-ft | 66.8 cu-ft | 66.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.5 in | 34.2 in | 34.2 in | 34.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Hill Start Assist | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| 115V Power Outlet | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Pedals | ||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee redesigned?
No. The 2009 Grand Cherokee remains part of the WK generation and carries over the body and basic design that received a refresh for 2008.
What is the biggest difference between the 2008 and 2009 Grand Cherokee?
The biggest difference is the updated 5.7-liter HEMI V8, which delivers more power while also improving fuel economy for 2009.
Did the 2009 Grand Cherokee receive any interior updates?
Yes. Limited and Overland models gained a more upscale Leather Appearance Group, while the Laredo received several nicer interior touch points.
Did the 2009 Grand Cherokee add any technology?
Yes. Models equipped with the touchscreen navigation system added iPod connectivity for 2009.
Is the 2009 Grand Cherokee SRT8 new for this year?
Yes. The 2009 lineup adds the SRT8 alongside the Laredo, Limited, and Overland. The SRT8 uses a 6.1-liter HEMI V8, performance brakes, a lowered suspension, and full-time four-wheel drive.