2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the return of the SRT8, powered by a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 and tuned for stronger on-road performance. The rest of the lineup receives modest mechanical and equipment updates rather than a redesign.
About the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee
4th generation (WK2), second model year after the 2011 redesign.
Jeep positions the 2012 Grand Cherokee as the midsize SUV that blends real Jeep capability with a quieter, more upscale everyday drive. It aims at buyers who want one vehicle for commuting, road trips, bad-weather confidence, towing, and occasional trail use. Compared with softer crossovers, it offers stronger four-wheel-drive hardware and more off-road credibility; compared with truck-like SUVs, it offers a smoother ride, a richer cabin, and more premium features.
The Laredo remains the straightforward everyday version, while the Limited adds comforts such as leather seating, navigation, and heated front and rear seats. Overland emphasizes luxury with Nappa leather, real wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof. The returning SRT8 is the performance model, with a 6.4-liter V8, adaptive suspension, stronger Brembo brakes, and sport seats.
What changed, by category
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, HEMI, 6.4 Liter | V6, Flex Fuel, 3.6 Liter / V8, 5.7 Liter | V6, Flex Fuel, 3.6 Liter / V8, 5.7 Liter | V6, Flex Fuel, 3.6 Liter / V8, 5.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd / Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd / Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd / Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Flexible Fuel / Gas | Flexible Fuel / Gas | Flexible Fuel / Gas |
| MPG City | 12 mpg | 14–16 mpg | 14–16 mpg | 14–16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 18 mpg | 20–23 mpg | 20–23 mpg | 20–23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 465 hp | 290–360 hp | 290–360 hp | 290–360 hp |
| Torque | 465 lb-ft | 260–390 lb-ft | 260–390 lb-ft | 260–390 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 7200 lb | 7200 lb | 7200 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 68.7 cu-ft | 68.7 cu-ft | 68.7 cu-ft | 68.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| 115V Power Outlet | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The biggest change is the return of the SRT8 performance trim. It has a 6.4-liter HEMI V8, adaptive suspension, selectable drive modes, Brembo brakes, and an electronic limited-slip rear differential.
Was the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee redesigned?
No, the 2012 Grand Cherokee was not redesigned. It is the second model year of the fourth-generation WK2 Grand Cherokee introduced for 2011.
What changed on the 2012 Grand Cherokee V6?
The 2012 Grand Cherokee V6 switches to electro-hydraulic power steering, helping highway fuel economy. Flexible-fuel Laredo, Limited, and Overland versions rise from 22 to 23 mpg on the highway.
What changed on the 2012 Grand Cherokee with the 5.7-liter V8?
The 2012 Grand Cherokee with the 5.7-liter V8 receives a revised six-speed automatic transmission. This update applies to V8 versions of the mainstream lineup.
Did the 2012 Grand Cherokee Laredo lose any standard equipment?
Yes. Satellite radio changes from standard equipment in 2011 to optional equipment on the 2012 Grand Cherokee Laredo.