2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude: The Dark Horse of Premium SUVs
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude: The Dark Horse of Premium SUVs jeeps.truckstrend.com
In the highly competitive world of mid-size SUVs, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has consistently carved out a unique niche, blending rugged capability with upscale refinement. Among its diverse trim levels, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude stands out as a particularly compelling offering. It wasn’t just another trim; it was a carefully curated package designed to appeal to buyers seeking a distinctive, sporty aesthetic combined with the Grand Cherokee’s renowned performance and comfort. The Altitude trim took the already popular Laredo and Limited models and infused them with a "blacked-out" persona, transforming the vehicle into a stylish, urban-ready machine that still retained its adventurous soul. For many, the 2015 Altitude represented the perfect blend of street presence and Jeep heritage, offering a premium look without the top-tier price tag.
The Altitude Identity: A Symphony in Black
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude: The Dark Horse of Premium SUVs
The most striking aspect of the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude is undoubtedly its unique visual signature. Jeep designers meticulously crafted an aesthetic that exuded sophistication and a hint of aggression, setting it apart from its chrome-laden siblings.
- Exterior Dominance: The "blacked-out" theme is immediately apparent. The Altitude featured a distinct gloss black grille with black mesh inserts, complementing the black headlamp bezels. All exterior badging, including the iconic Jeep emblems and the Grand Cherokee nameplate, were finished in gloss black. Even the window surrounds and roof rails received the dark treatment, creating a cohesive and purposeful look. Body-color fascias and cladding further contributed to its sleek, monochromatic appeal, replacing the standard black plastic found on lower trims.
- Wheels That Make a Statement: A cornerstone of the Altitude’s appearance was its exclusive 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels. These multi-spoke rims perfectly filled the wheel wells, giving the vehicle a planted and muscular stance. The dark wheels contrasted sharply with lighter paint colors, while blending seamlessly with darker hues, creating a truly stealthy presence.
- Subtle Interior Enhancements: While the exterior was the main event, the Altitude’s interior also received thoughtful touches. Black leather-trimmed seats with suede inserts and distinctive black stitching provided a premium feel. Darker interior trim accents reinforced the overall theme, creating a cohesive and sophisticated cabin environment that mirrored the exterior’s dark allure. This cohesive design language made the Altitude a genuinely unique proposition in the 2015 Grand Cherokee lineup.
Under the Hood: Power, Efficiency, and Capability
Beyond its captivating looks, the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude offered a choice of robust powertrains, ensuring it delivered on the performance front as well.
- Standard 3.6L Pentastar V6: The most common engine found in the Altitude was the venerable 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. This award-winning engine produced a healthy 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily driving, highway cruising, and even light towing. Paired with a smooth and efficient ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, the V6 delivered respectable fuel economy (around 17 MPG city / 24 MPG highway for 4×2 models). Its refinement and proven reliability made it a popular choice.
- Optional 5.7L HEMI V8: For those craving more muscle, the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8 was an available option. This powerhouse delivered a robust 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, significantly boosting acceleration and towing capabilities. The HEMI also featured Fuel Saver Technology (cylinder deactivation), which allowed it to run on four cylinders under light loads to improve fuel efficiency, though it still consumed more fuel than the V6 (around 14 MPG city / 22 MPG highway).
- Drivetrain Options: The 2015 Altitude was available in both two-wheel drive (4×2) and four-wheel drive (4×4) configurations. Four-wheel-drive models typically featured Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II system, which included a two-speed transfer case for serious off-road capability, though most Altitude buyers likely appreciated its all-weather traction more than its rock-crawling prowess. The 8-speed automatic transmission was standard across all engine and drivetrain combinations, optimizing performance and fuel economy.
- Towing Prowess: With the Pentastar V6, the Altitude could tow up to 6,200 pounds, while the HEMI V8 boosted that capacity to an impressive 7,400 pounds, making it a highly capable vehicle for trailers, boats, or campers.
Interior Comfort, Technology, and Versatility
The 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude didn’t just impress with its exterior; its interior was a comfortable and technologically advanced space, designed for both driver and passenger satisfaction.
- Premium Seating: As mentioned, the Altitude came standard with black leather-trimmed seats featuring suede inserts, offering a blend of luxury and grip. Both front seats were heated, a welcome feature in colder climates, and the driver’s seat typically offered power adjustments.
- Uconnect Infotainment: The centerpiece of the dashboard was the Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This highly intuitive system included AM/FM radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and voice command. Optional features included integrated navigation and a premium sound system (often Alpine). Uconnect was widely praised for its user-friendliness and responsiveness.
- Convenience Features: Standard convenience features on the Altitude included dual-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate for easy cargo access, Keyless Enter ‘n Go for seamless entry and push-button start, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls.
- Cargo and Space: The Grand Cherokee’s inherent design offered generous passenger space for five adults and a versatile cargo area. With the rear seats up, it provided ample room for luggage, and when folded flat, the cargo capacity expanded significantly, making it practical for larger hauls or outdoor gear.
Safety Features: Prioritizing Peace of Mind
Jeep equipped the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect its occupants.
- Passive Safety: Standard passive safety features included multiple airbags (front, side-curtain, front-seat side airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag), anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control.
- Active Safety & Driver Aids: The Altitude came standard with a ParkView rear backup camera and ParkSense rear park assist system, aiding in maneuvering in tight spaces. While advanced safety features like Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path Detection, Forward Collision Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control were often optional packages or standard on higher trims like the Overland or Summit, the Altitude still offered a solid foundation of safety technology for its price point.
Driving Dynamics and Ownership Considerations
The 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude delivered a refined and comfortable driving experience, characteristic of the WK2 generation. Its independent suspension smoothed out road imperfections, while still offering confident handling. While the Altitude’s street-oriented tires and styling might suggest otherwise, it still retained the Grand Cherokee’s fundamental off-road capability when equipped with 4×4, thanks to its robust chassis and available low-range gearing.
For those considering a used 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude today, here are some practical tips:
- Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): Always get a comprehensive PPI from a trusted mechanic. This can reveal potential issues like fluid leaks, suspension wear, or electrical glitches.
- Engine Specifics: If considering the HEMI V8, ask about oil change intervals and listen for any ticking noises, which could indicate lifter issues (though less common on the 2015 models than earlier ones). For the Pentastar, ensure proper cooling system maintenance.
- Transmission Check: The ZF 8-speed is generally robust, but ensure smooth shifts and no hesitation. Check fluid service history.
- Uconnect System: Test the Uconnect system thoroughly. Ensure all functions work, including Bluetooth and navigation (if equipped). Software updates can resolve some glitches.
- HVAC System: Check that the dual-zone climate control works correctly and that all blend doors operate smoothly.
- Maintenance Records: Request full service records to verify regular maintenance, especially oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid flushes.
- Rust: Inspect the undercarriage and body panels for any signs of rust, particularly in regions that use road salt.
Price Table: 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude (Original MSRP)
It’s important to note that actual used prices will vary significantly based on mileage, condition, optional features, and geographical location. The table below reflects the approximate original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude.
| Trim Level | Drivetrain | Engine | Approximate Original MSRP (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee Altitude | 4×2 | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | $36,290 |
| Grand Cherokee Altitude | 4×4 | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | $38,290 |
| Grand Cherokee Altitude | 4×2 | 5.7L HEMI V8 | $39,590 (Approx. V8 upgrade cost) |
| Grand Cherokee Altitude | 4×4 | 5.7L HEMI V8 | $41,590 (Approx. V8 upgrade cost) |
Note: The V8 engine was an additional cost option on top of the V6 price for the Altitude trim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What exactly is the Altitude trim on the 2015 Grand Cherokee?
A: The Altitude trim was a special edition package for the 2015 Grand Cherokee that focused on a "blacked-out" aesthetic. It included gloss black exterior accents (grille, badges, window surrounds, 20-inch wheels) and specific interior touches, built upon the Laredo or Limited trim’s feature set.
Q: What engines were available for the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude?
A: The standard engine was the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. An optional 5.7-liter HEMI V8 was also available for those seeking more power and towing capability.
Q: Does the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude come with 4×4?
A: Yes, the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude was available in both 4×2 (two-wheel drive) and 4×4 (four-wheel drive) configurations. The 4×4 models typically came with Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II system.
Q: Is the Altitude good for off-roading?
A: While the Altitude’s styling is more street-oriented, it retains the fundamental off-road capability of the Grand Cherokee, especially when equipped with 4×4 and its available low-range transfer case. However, its 20-inch wheels and lower-profile tires are less ideal for serious off-road trails compared to other trims with smaller wheels and more aggressive tires.
Q: What’s the fuel economy like for the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude?
A: For the 3.6L V6, expect around 17 MPG city / 24 MPG highway (4×2) or 17 MPG city / 23 MPG highway (4×4). The 5.7L HEMI V8 will naturally be lower, around 14 MPG city / 22 MPG highway (4×2/4×4).
Q: Are there any common problems with the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude?
A: Like any vehicle, some common points to check include potential Uconnect system glitches (often fixable with software updates), HVAC blend door issues, and for HEMI engines, occasional lifter noise (though less prevalent in 2015 models). Regular maintenance and a pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended.
Q: What is the towing capacity of the 2015 Grand Cherokee Altitude?
A: With the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the towing capacity is up to 6,200 pounds. With the 5.7L HEMI V8, it increases significantly to 7,400 pounds.
Conclusion
The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude successfully carved out its own identity within the highly popular Grand Cherokee lineup. It offered a compelling blend of sophisticated styling, robust performance options, and a comfortable, tech-savvy interior. Its "dark horse" aesthetic appealed to those who desired a distinctive, upscale look without sacrificing the legendary capability and versatility that the Grand Cherokee is known for. Whether equipped with the efficient Pentastar V6 or the powerful HEMI V8, the Altitude delivered a rewarding driving experience, both on the daily commute and for weekend adventures. For anyone seeking a stylish, capable, and well-appointed SUV in the used market today, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude remains an exceptionally strong contender, offering enduring value and a timeless appeal.
