First Drive: 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit

by Michael Satterfield -04/10/2023

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit is a versatile family SUV that exudes both ruggedness and refinement, it goes head to head with any luxury SUV on the market and in most cases proves to be not just the best value, but just the best when compared to vehicles that can cost almost twice as much. 

While many buyers will not take advantage of its off-road capabilities, the mere knowledge that the vehicle can tackle any terrain adds a romantic appeal to Jeep ownership, as a Jeep owner myself I can confirm. The Cherokee L Summit offers a comfortable ride, a roomy cabin, and a plethora of convenience and luxury features. The Summit trim level takes Jeep to another level and if you didn't see the name on the steering wheel you wouldn't be wrong in assuming that you might be driving a Range Rover. The Summit starts at $65,505 and the Summit Reserve Starts at $71,985, which is cheap compared to a vehicle like the Land Rover Defender 130.

It is clear that Jeep is moving upmarket and trying to distance itself from brands like Kia and Chevrolet in the crowded third-row SUV market, leaning into its heritage and focusing on offering an upscale experience for the driver and passengers. We used the Charokee L to tow our classic Jeep Grand Wagoneer around for a photo shoot and it did so with ease thanks to its 7,200 lb towing capacity. 

The Grand Cherokee L features Uconnect 5, Stellantis' latest infotainment system, with clear graphics and a built-in navigation system that offers helpful turn-by-turn directions. However, the screen's upward angle easily reflects glare from direct sunlight, detracting from the experience. Our test vehicle boasted the optional 19-speaker McIntosh surround-sound system, but we found it underwhelming, particularly given its high cost.

Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make using your phone and listening to your favorite podcast easy. The Grand Cherokee L's advanced driver aids are a highlight, with adaptive cruise control that operates smoothly and a lane-keeping system that effectively keeps the SUV where you want it, while making those long drives much more manageable.  

The air ride suspension was smooth and comfortable, my wife appreciated the access mode which made getting in and out much easier, and I will admit this is the first domestic vehicle she said she would give up her Mercedes for, so that says a lot of just how well appointed the Summit trim level is, she especially liked the wood trim and the diamond pleating on the leather interior. I the way it drove how useable the space was inside. Jeep has raised the bar with the Summit and if you are in the market for a luxury SUV with a third row you should put it on your list.