2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo: Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
Reading Time: 8 minutes The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo is often seen as a smart entry point into the world of midsize SUVs. For many buyers, it offers a good mix of capability, comfort, and value. If you’re new to car shopping or just curious about what this model can do, you’ll find plenty of useful information here. This guide breaks down everything that matters—what makes it special, how it performs, what you can expect day-to-day, and some facts that most beginners miss. Let’s help you decide if the 2014 Grand Cherokee Laredo is the right fit for you.
Overview Of The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
The Laredo trim sits at the base of the Grand Cherokee lineup, but that doesn’t mean it’s basic. In 2014, Jeep gave the Grand Cherokee a refresh. This included updated exterior styling, better technology, and a new automatic transmission. The Laredo was designed to offer strong value while keeping many of the features drivers want.
Key highlights:
- 5-passenger seating for families or groups
- Rear-wheel drive standard, with available four-wheel drive
- 3.6-liter V6 engine standard (290 horsepower)
- 8-speed automatic transmission for smoother shifting
- EPA-estimated 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (RWD model)
- Uconnect infotainment system with a 5-inch touchscreen
The Laredo is a practical choice for daily driving, weekend trips, and even some light off-roading.
Engine, Performance, And Handling
The 2014 Laredo uses the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine. This engine is well-known for its balance of power and fuel economy.
Performance details:
- Horsepower: 290 hp
- Torque: 260 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: Around 7.5 seconds (quick for its class)
- Towing capacity: Up to 6,200 lbs (when properly equipped)
Driving the Laredo feels confident, especially in bad weather. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, making city and highway driving easier.
Two types of drive are available:
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD): Better fuel economy, good for city/highway
- Four-wheel drive (4WD): More traction, safer in snow or mud
Most buyers pick RWD unless they live where winters are harsh.
Credit: www.iihs.org
Interior Comfort And Features
The Laredo doesn’t feel like a “base” model inside. The cabin has soft-touch materials, clear gauges, and a simple layout that’s easy to use.
Standard features:
- Cloth seats with manual adjustment
- Dual-zone air conditioning
- Keyless entry and push-button start
- 5-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Bluetooth and USB
- 60/40 split-folding rear seat for more cargo space
Practical details:
- Cargo space: About 36.3 cubic feet behind rear seats, 68.3 cubic feet with seats folded
- Legroom: Comfortable for adults in both rows
- Noise level: Quiet on highways for its class
One insight beginners miss: the Laredo’s rear seatbacks recline, so backseat passengers are more comfortable on long drives.
Technology And Infotainment
The 2014 Laredo comes with Jeep’s Uconnect system. While it’s not as large or advanced as the systems in higher trims, it covers the basics well.
Features:
- 5-inch touchscreen (responsive for the time)
- Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio
- USB port for connecting devices
- Six-speaker sound system
The system is easy to learn, even if you’re not tech-savvy. Physical knobs for volume and tuning make it less distracting while driving.
Practical tip: The Uconnect system may not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (these were not standard in 2014), so bring an AUX cable if you want to play music from your phone.
Safety And Reliability
Safety matters, especially for family buyers. The 2014 Grand Cherokee Laredo received strong ratings for crash protection.
Main safety features:
- Front and side airbags
- Full-length side curtain airbags
- Stability and traction control
- Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS
- Hill-start assist (prevents rolling backward on hills)
Crash test results (NHTSA):
- Overall rating: 5 stars (out of 5)
- Frontal crash: 4 stars
- Side crash: 5 stars
- Rollover: 4 stars
Reliability is good, but regular maintenance is important. Some common issues on older models include electronic glitches with the infotainment system and occasional transmission updates needed. Most issues are minor and can be handled by a qualified mechanic.
Practical Ownership Costs
Cost of ownership includes more than just the price you pay at the dealership. Here’s what to expect:
- Fuel economy: 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (RWD), 17/24 mpg (4WD)
- Annual fuel cost: Around $2,250 (based on 15,000 miles/year at $3.50/gallon)
- Insurance cost: Average for a midsize SUV; expect $1,200-$1,500/year
- Maintenance: Oil changes every 5,000-7,000 miles; tires last around 40,000 miles
Depreciation is moderate. After 5 years, most 2014 Laredos hold about 45-50% of their original value, which is solid for this segment.
Credit: www.groovecar.com
Comparison With Other Midsize Suvs
How does the Laredo stack up against rivals? Here’s a quick look:
| Model | Horsepower | Fuel Economy (city/hwy) | Cargo Space (cu. ft.) | Price (used, avg.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo | 290 | 17/25 | 68.3 | $13,000-$17,000 |
| 2014 Ford Explorer Base | 290 | 17/24 | 80.7 | $12,000-$16,000 |
| 2014 Toyota 4Runner SR5 | 270 | 17/22 | 89.7 | $18,000-$23,000 |
| 2014 Honda Pilot LX | 250 | 18/25 | 87.0 | $15,000-$19,000 |
The Laredo is competitive, especially for buyers who value towing and off-road ability. It costs less than some rivals but offers similar power.
Real-world Driving Experience
Many owners use the Laredo for both city and outdoor adventures. The ride is smooth over bumps, and the cabin stays quiet on the highway.
Day-to-day experience:
- Turning radius: Easy to park in tight spots (37.1 feet)
- Visibility: Good all around, thanks to large windows and mirrors
- Ride comfort: Suspension absorbs most road flaws
What beginners miss: The Laredo’s ground clearance (8.6 inches) is higher than many crossovers. This means you can drive on rough gravel roads or snowy streets without worry.
Common Issues And Maintenance Insights
No car is perfect, and the Laredo is no exception. Here are a few things to watch for:
- Electronic issues: Early infotainment bugs are common; most are fixed by software updates.
- Transmission recall: Some 2014 models had recalls for the automatic shifter; always check the VIN for recall work.
- Brake wear: Heavy use can cause the pads to wear faster than average.
Maintenance tips:
- Change oil with high-quality synthetic every 6,000 miles.
- Rotate tires every other oil change to extend life.
- Replace transmission fluid by 60,000 miles for best results.
A non-obvious insight: The Laredo’s V6 is chain-driven, not belt-driven, so you don’t have to worry about timing belt replacements.
Off-road And Towing Capabilities
The Grand Cherokee is famous for off-road ability. Even the Laredo, though not as hardcore as upper trims, can handle dirt trails and light mud.
Off-road highlights:
- Available 4WD with low-range gearing
- Hill descent control (on 4WD models)
- Skid plates (optional, for underbody protection)
Towing:
- Maximum towing: 6,200 lbs (enough for small campers or boats)
- Standard trailer sway control
If you plan to tow often, make sure your Laredo has the factory tow package.
Ownership Satisfaction And Resale Value
Most owners rate the Laredo highly for comfort, capability, and value. It’s also popular on the used market.
Owner satisfaction scores (from J.D. Power):
- Overall: 81/100
- Quality/Reliability: 80/100
- Driving experience: 83/100
Resale value is stable, especially if you keep up with maintenance and keep the interior clean.
One tip: Save all service records. Buyers pay more for well-documented vehicles.
Trim Levels And Options
The Laredo is the entry trim, but there are a few options to consider:
- Laredo E package: Adds power driver’s seat, satellite radio, roof rails
- Convenience Group: Includes power liftgate, remote start, security alarm
Popular add-ons:
- All-weather floor mats
- Roof rack crossbars
- Upgraded wheels
Most buyers find the base Laredo well-equipped for the price.
Ownership Costs Compared
Let’s see how the Laredo’s main costs stack up:
| Cost Area | Laredo | Explorer | 4Runner | Pilot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fuel | $2,250 | $2,270 | $2,350 | $2,180 |
| Insurance | $1,350 | $1,400 | $1,500 | $1,320 |
| Maintenance (5 yrs) | $5,000 | $5,200 | $5,800 | $4,900 |
The Laredo is very competitive in running costs. Insurance and maintenance are average, and fuel costs are about the same as other midsize SUVs.
Who Should Buy The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo?
The Laredo is a great fit for:
- Families who want a safe and comfortable SUV
- Outdoor enthusiasts who need off-road or towing ability
- Daily drivers who want a midsize SUV with good value
- First-time SUV buyers who want something reliable and easy to drive
If you need more luxury or advanced tech, higher trims may be better. But for most people, the Laredo covers the basics very well.
Credit: www.jdpower.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Reliable?
Yes, the Laredo is generally reliable if maintained well. The V6 engine is strong, and most repairs are affordable. Always check for completed recalls before buying.
What Is The Towing Capacity Of The 2014 Laredo?
With the V6 engine and proper equipment, the Laredo can tow up to 6,200 pounds. This is enough for small trailers, boats, or campers.
Does The 2014 Laredo Have Four-wheel Drive?
Four-wheel drive is optional on the Laredo. Most models are rear-wheel drive, but 4WD versions are common, especially in snowy regions.
What Are Common Problems With The 2014 Laredo?
Some owners report infotainment system glitches and transmission recall issues. Regular software updates fix most problems. Brake pads may wear quickly with heavy use.
Is The 2014 Grand Cherokee Laredo A Good Used Suv?
Yes, especially for buyers who want a mix of comfort, capability, and value. It’s a top choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. For more details, check the official Jeep Grand Cherokee Wikipedia page.
The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo stands out as a smart, practical choice in the midsize SUV world. It balances comfort, power, and price in a way few rivals match. If you want an SUV that’s easy to live with and ready for adventure, the Laredo deserves a close look.
