“If you want a reliable vehicle that holds its value, Jeep is definitely the way to go. If you are looking for a sharp looking and smooth driving SUV, go for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.”
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee is its upgraded 3.6-liter V6, which rises to 295 horsepower and gains automatic stop/start. This is not a redesign, but it brings meaningful mechanical updates and several new special editions.
About the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
4th generation (WK2, 2011-2021), sixth model year and two years after the 2014 major refresh
Jeep positioned the Grand Cherokee as a five-seat SUV that combines genuine off-road and towing ability with a quiet, well-equipped cabin and confident highway manners. Its identity spans practical V6 models, luxury-focused trims, diesel and V8 choices, and the high-performance SRT. Compared with road-focused crossovers, its key distinction is the breadth of permanent capability hardware and the ability to serve as a daily family vehicle without giving up trail or towing strength.
The 2016 Grand Cherokee ranges from the straightforward V6-powered Laredo to the leather-lined Limited and luxury-focused Summit, which has navigation, a panoramic roof, premium audio, and added driver aids. The 75th Anniversary models add commemorative styling and comfort features, while the 475-hp SRT remains the road-performance version with a 6.4-liter V8, strong Brembo brakes, and selectable performance modes.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The 3.6-liter V6 in every non-SRT trim gains five horsepower for a total of 295, plus automatic stop/start that shuts off the engine while stationary. Flexible-fuel powertrains leave the High Altitude, Laredo, Laredo E, Limited, Overland, and Summit lineups.
Styling
Jeep adds the 75th Anniversary Edition, Limited 75th Anniversary Edition, and SRT Night Package, each with its own exterior and cabin treatment. The Altitude and SRT Red Vapor trims are dropped.
Tech
The SRT gains a center-mounted tachometer display, expanded performance information, and preset and custom drive modes. Smartphone integration becomes standard on the Laredo E and Limited.
Structural
Electric power steering with adjustable effort replaces the previous steering system across the range. Lighter aluminum suspension parts also reduce weight.
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, HEMI, 6.4 Liter | V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter | V6, EcoDiesel, 3.0T / V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter / V8, VVT, 5.7 Liter | V6, EcoDiesel, 3.0T / V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter / V8, VVT, 5.7 Liter | V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter | V6, EcoDiesel, 3.0T / V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter / V8, VVT, 5.7 Liter | V6, EcoDiesel, 3.0T / V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter / V8, VVT, 5.7 Liter | V8, HEMI, 6.4 Liter | V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter | V6, EcoDiesel, 3.0T / V6, VVT, 3.6 Liter / V8, VVT, 5.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 2WD / 4WD | 2WD / 4WD | 2WD | 2WD / 4WD | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 2WD / 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Diesel / Gas | Diesel / Gas | Gas | Diesel / Gas | Diesel / Gas | Gas | Gas | Diesel / Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 19 mpg | 14–22 mpg | 14–22 mpg | 19 mpg | 14–22 mpg | 14–22 mpg | 13 mpg | 19 mpg | 14–22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19 mpg | 26 mpg | 22–30 mpg | 22–30 mpg | 26 mpg | 22–30 mpg | 22–30 mpg | 19 mpg | 26 mpg | 22–30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 475 hp | 295 hp | 240–360 hp | 240–360 hp | 295 hp | 240–360 hp | 240–360 hp | 475 hp | 295 hp | 240–360 hp |
| Torque | 470 lb-ft | 390–420 lb-ft | 390–420 lb-ft | 390–420 lb-ft | 390–420 lb-ft | 470 lb-ft | 390–420 lb-ft | |||
| Max Towing | 7200 lb | 6200 lb | 7200 lb | 7200 lb | 6200 lb | 7200 lb | 6200 lb | 7200 lb | 6200 lb | 7200 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft | 68.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in | 38.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||||||||
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||||||||
| Alarm System | ||||||||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||||||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||||||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||||||||
| Cruise Control | ||||||||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||||||
| Traction Control | ||||||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||||||
| HID Headlights | ||||||||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||||||||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||||||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||||||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||||||
| Side Steps | ||||||||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||||||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||||||
| Subwoofer | ||||||||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||||||||
| 115V Power Outlet | ||||||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||||||
| Dual Power Lumbar Support 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 | ||||||||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The biggest change is the upgraded 3.6-liter V6 used in every non-SRT trim. It makes 295 horsepower, five more than before, and gains automatic stop/start to shut off the engine while the vehicle is stationary.
Is the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee a full redesign?
No. The 2016 Grand Cherokee remains part of the fourth generation and follows the major 2014 refresh. Its updates center on the V6, steering, suspension parts, technology, and trim lineup rather than a new body or platform.
How does the 2016 Grand Cherokee differ from the 2015 model?
Compared with the 2015 model, the 2016 Grand Cherokee has a stronger V6 with stop/start, electric power steering, lighter aluminum suspension parts, and revised trim choices. It also adds new technology to the SRT and makes smartphone integration standard on the Laredo E and Limited.
Which special editions joined the 2016 Grand Cherokee lineup?
The 2016 lineup adds the 75th Anniversary Edition, Limited 75th Anniversary Edition, and SRT Night Package. The anniversary models focus on commemorative styling and comfort equipment, while SRT Night gives the V8 performance model a darker exterior treatment, lightweight wheels, and Laguna leather upholstery.
What changed on the 2016 Grand Cherokee SRT?
The 2016 Grand Cherokee SRT gains a center-mounted tachometer display, expanded performance information, and preset and custom drive modes. Its core hardware remains a 475-hp 6.4-liter V8, eight-speed automatic, performance-focused four-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and Brembo brakes.
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
4.3
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
(337 reviews)
“BUY IT, I CAN NOT BELIEVE HOW MUCH I LOVE THIS VEHICLE. I NEVER MISS MY CHARGER, THIS VEHICLE HAS THE TAKE OFF AND THE ACCELERATION THAT MY HEMI DID BUT IS SOO MUCH MORE LUXURIOUS THAN THE CHARGER”
“Solid, reliable, attractive vehicle that is roomy, comfortable, handles well, and will get you where you need to go in just about any weather. This is my third Grand Cherokee and my 7th Jeep.”
Sources
- jeep.com — Pdf / eBrochure Jeep Grand Cherokee 2016
- media.stellantis.com — Jeep / Press / Jeep Brand At The 2016 Paris International Motor Show
- jeep.com — Pdf / eBrochure Jeep Grand Cherokee Reveal Brochure (2017)
- media.stellantis.com — Jeep / Press / The Jeep Brand Celebrates 75 Years Of Legendary History With Full Lineup Of New Special Edition Models