2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD For Sale: Your Comprehensive Buying Guide

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD For Sale: Your Comprehensive Buying Guide jeeps.truckstrend.com

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long been an icon in the SUV market, revered for its blend of rugged capability, sophisticated comfort, and timeless design. Among its various configurations, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) stands out as a compelling option for those seeking a premium SUV experience without the need for extensive off-road prowess. This detailed guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview for anyone considering purchasing this specific model, offering insights into its features, benefits, important considerations, and practical advice to ensure a smart acquisition.

An Engaging Introduction: Why the 2014 Grand Cherokee Limited RWD Still Shines

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD For Sale: Your Comprehensive Buying Guide

In the automotive landscape, few vehicles manage to strike the balance between luxury and utility as effectively as the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The 2014 model year, part of the acclaimed WK2 generation (2011-2021), received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal with updated styling, an improved interior, and a more refined powertrain. The "Limited" trim level, in particular, represents a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a wealth of premium features and comforts that elevate the driving experience.

For those residing in regions where severe winter weather or challenging off-road trails are not a primary concern, the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) configuration presents a unique advantage. By foregoing the heavier and more complex 4×4 system, the RWD model typically offers slightly better fuel economy, a lighter curb weight, and often a more accessible price point on the used market. It embodies the essence of a comfortable, stylish, and capable daily driver, perfect for urban commutes, long highway journeys, and light-duty towing, all wrapped in that unmistakably rugged Jeep aesthetic. Understanding these nuances is key to appreciating the value proposition of a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD for sale.

Overview of the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2 Generation) Refresh

The 2014 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh for the WK2 Grand Cherokee. This update brought a host of improvements, solidifying its position as a segment leader. Key changes included:

• Exterior Enhancements: A redesigned front fascia with a more prominent grille, updated headlights (including available LED daytime running lights), and revised taillights gave the Grand Cherokee a fresher, more modern look.
• Interior Upgrades: The cabin saw considerable refinements, most notably the introduction of the intuitive Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a new three-spoke steering wheel, and an available customizable digital instrument cluster. Higher-quality materials were also more prevalent.
• Powertrain Refinements: The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine was paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission across the board, significantly improving fuel efficiency and driving dynamics.

These updates collectively made the 2014 Grand Cherokee a more competitive and appealing vehicle, blending its traditional ruggedness with a newfound sense of sophistication.

Spotlight on the Limited Trim: Premium Features and Comfort

The "Limited" trim is often considered the most popular and value-packed option within the Grand Cherokee lineup. It builds upon the foundational Laredo trim by adding a substantial list of desirable features that enhance both comfort and convenience:

• Exterior Accents: Brighter exterior trim, chrome accents, and larger alloy wheels (typically 18-inch) distinguish the Limited from the base model.
• Luxurious Interior: Standard leather upholstery throughout the cabin, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel provide a premium feel, especially beneficial in colder climates.
• Advanced Infotainment: The crown jewel is the Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen system, featuring voice commands, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and an intuitive interface. An upgraded Alpine nine-speaker audio system was often an option.
• Convenience Features: A power liftgate, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a rearview camera are standard, making daily driving more convenient.
• Safety Enhancements: While many advanced safety features were optional, the Limited trim often served as the base for adding packages like the Advanced Technology Group, which included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

For buyers seeking a balance of luxury, technology, and practicality without the top-tier price of the Overland or Summit trims, the Limited is an exceptional choice.

Understanding RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) in a Grand Cherokee

While Jeep is synonymous with 4×4 capability, the RWD configuration of the Grand Cherokee offers distinct advantages for specific buyers:

• Fuel Economy: Without the added weight and mechanical drag of a 4×4 system, RWD models typically achieve slightly better fuel efficiency. For the 2014 V6 RWD, expect EPA estimates around 17-18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway.
• Lighter Weight: Reduced curb weight can translate to marginally better acceleration and handling characteristics.
• Lower Initial Cost: New RWD models generally have a lower MSRP, which translates to a more affordable used price.
• Simplified Maintenance: Fewer complex components mean potentially fewer things to maintain or repair related to the drivetrain.

Important Consideration: The primary trade-off is diminished capability in low-traction conditions (snow, ice, mud, sand) and no off-road capability beyond graded dirt roads. If you live in a region with harsh winters or plan to venture off paved roads, a 4×4 model would be a more suitable choice. For most urban and highway driving, however, the RWD provides a comfortable and confident ride.

Key Specifications and Performance

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD primarily comes with one robust and reliable engine option:

• Engine: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6
  • Horsepower: 290 hp
  • Torque: 260 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission (standard for 2014 refresh)
• Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated RWD):
  • City: 17 MPG
  • Highway: 25 MPG
  • Combined: 20 MPG
• Towing Capacity (with V6 and proper equipment): Up to 6,200 lbs

This powertrain provides ample power for daily driving and highway passing, with the 8-speed automatic ensuring smooth shifts and efficient power delivery. The towing capacity is respectable for a mid-size SUV, capable of handling small boats, utility trailers, or pop-up campers.

Interior Features, Comfort, and Safety

The 2014 Grand Cherokee Limited offers a refined and comfortable cabin experience:

• Comfort: Plush leather seating, heated front and rear seats (outboard), a heated steering wheel, and ample legroom for both front and rear passengers ensure comfort on long trips. The ride quality is generally smooth and composed, absorbing road imperfections well.
• Infotainment: The Uconnect 8.4-inch system is intuitive and responsive, offering a user-friendly interface for navigation (if equipped), audio controls, and vehicle settings. Physical buttons for climate control and common functions complement the touchscreen, offering versatility.
• Cargo Space: With 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 68.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, the Grand Cherokee offers practical utility for groceries, luggage, or sporting equipment.
• Safety Features: Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, trailer sway control, hill start assist, and a comprehensive suite of airbags. Available advanced safety features (often part of optional packages) include a rearview camera (standard on Limited), blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-path detection, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Why Buy a Used 2014 Model? Value and Reliability

Purchasing a used 2014 Grand Cherokee Limited RWD offers several compelling advantages:

• Significant Depreciation: New vehicles lose a substantial portion of their value in the first few years. A 2014 model has already absorbed much of this depreciation, making it a much more affordable purchase than a newer equivalent.
• Proven Reliability: The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission are generally considered robust and reliable powertrains, having been in use across many Chrysler/Jeep vehicles for years.
• Modern Features at a Discount: Despite being nearly a decade old, the 2014 Limited offers many features (Uconnect 8.4, heated seats, power liftgate) that were considered premium then and remain highly desirable today.
• Parts Availability: As a popular model, parts and service expertise are readily available, making ownership easier.

What to Look For When Buying (Inspection Guide)

When evaluating a used 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD, a thorough inspection is crucial:

1. Maintenance Records: Always ask for detailed service history. Regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and differential fluid changes are critical for longevity.
2. Engine and Transmission: Listen for unusual noises (knocks, ticks) from the engine. Check for oil leaks. During a test drive, ensure the 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly through all gears, without hesitation or slipping.
3. Suspension: The RWD Limited typically has a coil-spring suspension, which is generally reliable. Check for uneven ride height, excessive bouncing, or strange noises over bumps. If a rare RWD model has the optional Quadra-Lift air suspension, check for compressor noise, air leaks (vehicle sagging overnight), or fault codes.
4. Brakes: Check for pulsating when braking (warped rotors) or excessive squealing.
5. Tires: Inspect for uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues or worn suspension components.
6. Electrical and Infotainment: Test all lights, power windows, locks, and especially the Uconnect 8.4 system. Ensure the touchscreen is responsive and all functions (Bluetooth, radio, navigation) work correctly. Some older Uconnect systems can experience glitches or require software updates.
7. Body and Frame: Look for signs of accident damage (uneven panel gaps, mismatched paint), rust (especially on rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage), and previous repairs.
8. Recalls: Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the NHTSA website to see if any open recalls apply to the specific vehicle.
9. Test Drive: Drive the vehicle on various road surfaces, including highway speeds. Pay attention to steering feel, braking performance, and any unusual noises or vibrations.

Pros and Cons of the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD

Pros:

• Refined ride quality and comfortable interior.
• Powerful and efficient 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine with 8-speed transmission.
• Feature-rich Limited trim with premium amenities.
• User-friendly Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system.
• Respectable towing capacity for a V6 SUV.
• Stylish and timeless design.
• Better fuel economy than 4×4 counterparts.
• Lower purchase price on the used market.

Cons:

• Limited capability in challenging winter conditions or off-road situations (due to RWD).
• Fuel economy, while better than 4×4, is still typical for a large SUV.
• Potential for some older vehicle technology glitches (e.g., Uconnect, although often resolvable).
• Certain maintenance or repairs (e.g., suspension components, advanced electronics) can be pricey if not performed by a specialized mechanic.

Practical Advice and Actionable Insights

• Set a Budget: Factor in not just the purchase price, but also potential registration, insurance, and initial maintenance costs.
• Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): Even if you’re handy, a certified mechanic can identify issues you might miss. This small investment can save you thousands later.
• Check the VIN: Use online resources like Carfax or AutoCheck to get a vehicle history report. This reveals accident history, title issues, and service records.
• Negotiate: Be prepared to negotiate the price, especially if you find any issues during your inspection.
• Consider Winter Tires: If you live in an area with occasional snow, good quality winter tires on an RWD vehicle can significantly improve traction and safety.

Price Table: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD For Sale (Estimated Range)

Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary significantly based on mileage, condition, optional features, regional market demand, and seller type (private vs. dealer).

Condition	Mileage Range (Approx.)	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Considerations
Excellent	60,000 – 90,000	$12,500 – $16,500	Impeccable service history, minimal wear & tear, pristine interior/exterior.
Good	90,001 – 130,000	$9,500 – $12,499	Regular maintenance, minor cosmetic flaws, good mechanical condition.
Fair	130,001 – 160,000+	$7,000 – $9,499	Needs some TLC, potential for deferred maintenance, visible wear.
Below Average	160,001+	$5,000 – $6,999	Significant cosmetic/mechanical issues, higher risk, best for experienced DIYers.

Note: Prices are estimates as of late 2023/early 2024 and are subject to market fluctuations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the RWD 2014 Grand Cherokee Limited good in snow?
A1: While RWD vehicles are generally less capable in snow than 4×4, with good quality winter tires, the 2014 RWD Grand Cherokee can handle light to moderate snow conditions adequately. For heavy snow or icy conditions, a 4×4 model is highly recommended.

Q2: What is the typical fuel economy for the 2014 Grand Cherokee Limited RWD?
A2: The EPA estimates are 17 MPG city, 25 MPG highway, and 20 MPG combined for the 3.6L V6 RWD model. Real-world mileage may vary based on driving habits and conditions.

Q3: What’s the main difference between the Limited and Laredo trims?
A3: The Limited trim offers significant upgrades over the Laredo, including leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, power liftgate, Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen (optional on Laredo), remote start, and larger alloy wheels, among other features.

Q4: Are parts for the 2014 Grand Cherokee expensive?
A4: As a popular model, many common wear-and-tear parts are readily available and reasonably priced. However, certain specialized components (e.g., complex electronics, premium suspension parts if applicable) can be more expensive, especially if purchased from the dealership.

Q5: What are common issues to look out for in the 2014 Grand Cherokee?
A5: Common issues can include Uconnect system glitches (often fixable with software updates), potential for excessive oil consumption in some early Pentastar V6 engines (less common for 2014, but worth checking), and general wear-and-tear items like brakes and suspension components. Air suspension issues are a known concern for models equipped with it, but the RWD Limited typically has standard coil springs.

Q6: What is the towing capacity of the 2014 Grand Cherokee Limited RWD V6?
A6: When properly equipped, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 RWD model can tow up to 6,200 pounds. Always ensure the vehicle has the factory towing package or an aftermarket equivalent.

Concluding Summary

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited RWD for sale presents an excellent opportunity for buyers seeking a refined, comfortable, and stylish SUV without the added complexity and cost of a 4×4 system. Its comprehensive feature set, proven powertrain, and appealing design make it a compelling choice on the used market. By understanding its strengths, acknowledging its limitations, and conducting a thorough inspection, you can confidently acquire a vehicle that promises many more years of reliable and enjoyable driving. It’s more than just an SUV; it’s a statement of capability and comfort, tailored for the discerning driver who appreciates the Grand Cherokee’s legacy without needing to conquer every off-road trail.