The Jeep Grand Cherokee gets credit for being the Jeep that can make everyday life more comfortable. Very few SUVs can rival this Jeep’s versatility and capability. And because of this, respected critics consider the Grand Cherokee a bit strange, but in a good way.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a jack of all trades

In 2020, Jeep’s most significant changes for the Grand Cherokee included reducing the SUV’s lineup from 12 models to seven. Another big difference was that the diesel engine option isn’t available for this model year. But even without the diesel engine, there are still a variety of engine options available. 

The amount of powertrain options on the Grand Cherokee is why U.S. News considers it as an unusual midsize SUV. There are four powertrain choices to choose from on the Grand Cherokee, each offering a strong sense of power. Most Grand Cherokee rivals feature a standard four-cylinder engine with an optional V6 as an upgrade. 

On the flip side, the Grand Cherokee comes standard with a forceful 295-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 that’s the most fuel-efficient option. For more power, you can go up to the 360-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 engine available on the Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit models. There are also two other V8 engines available. With the SRT variant, you get a 475-horsepower 6.4-liter V8. Lastly, there’s the Trackhawk variant that has a supercharged 6.2-liter, 707-horsepower V8.  

RELATED: The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Is a Real Toss Up

Consumer Reports thinks it’s unusual too

Consumer Reports also considers the Grand Cherokee as unusual, but more so for its off-roading capability. Unlike others in its class, the Grand Cherokee can handle its own on- and off-road. This Jeep has designated functions to maneuver rocky, snowy, and sandy conditions.

CR especially likes that the Grand Cherokee’s electronic all-wheel-drive system makes rock hills no problem at all. However, experts aren’t as big of fans of the SUV’s ground clearance, which means you’ll have to be extremely careful to prevent damage to its exhaust system. 

On a more positive note, enthusiasts can pick from different packages to enhance their off-road adventures. The Quadra-Trac option is ideal for serious off-roading. Those who aren’t as interested in extreme off-roading should be fine with the Grand Cherokee’s normal suspension and four-wheel-drive.

The Grand Cherokee is unique on the inside too

In addition to its array of performance amenities, the Grand Cherokee offers unique features on the inside. Some might be surprised by how good Jeeps are on standard tech, and the Grand Cherokee is an excellent example of that. This SUV comes with a user-friendly infotainment system along with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker stereo. 

U.S. News and CR also appreciate the different ways buyers can make their Grand Cherokees more upscale. Cloth upholstery is standard on this SUV with leather and heated and ventilated front seats available as upgrades. The only real downside on the inside of the Grand Cherokee is its below-average cargo space.