Why Jeep Vehicles and Kentucky Drivers Are the Perfect Match

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Jeep brand? For many drivers, it’s images of bulky, square-shaped vehicles climbing rocky trails deep in the wilderness somewhere. Or maybe you’ve always thought of the Jeep as a warm-weather cruising vehicle, and your mind wanders to a roofless, doorless Jeep blasting through the desert or urban landscape. Ultimately, these images celebrate the ruggedness of the Jeep brand, but really, a Jeep can be so much more.

When you visit a Jeep dealer near Covington, you may be shocked at the variety of vehicles you see. Some Jeeps are all-terrain baja beasts, for sure, but some are well-mannered luxurious vehicles that can help turn long commutes into enjoyable voyages. Some have impressive fuel economy, while others are electrified. It’s not all bash plates and departure angles. In fact, most of the Jeep lineup does not have removable doors.

So why do we say that Jeeps and Kentucky are a “match made in heaven?” It’s because there are so many options to choose from. Whether you spend most of your time on Route 71 or have a solid working knowledge of all the trails surrounding the Covington area, there’s a Jeep that offers the exact level of stability and excitement you’re looking for. Here are some of our Jeep suggestions for the many driving personalities of the Bluegrass State.

On the City Streets

The Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee were two of the most popular models in the early days of the SUV boom. Once rugged vehicles that lacked most creature comforts, the Grand Cherokee and Cherokee models today are very people-friendly. However, a lot has changed since the 1990s. Sadly, the Cherokee left the Jeep lineup, though the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee 4xe have stepped up to fill the hole that its departure left in the hearts of drivers.

But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. “Grand” can mean both “elegant” and “large,” and the 2024 Grand Cherokee identifies with both of those terms. Passengers have loads of hip and shoulder room in the front and rear of the Grand Cherokee, while the maximum amount of cargo for the Grand Cherokee is 70.8. The 2024 Grand Cherokee is offered as both a 4×2 and 4×4, with the further option of two or three rows of seating for all but one of the nine available trims.

Also available is the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. This plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) combines a 2.0L gas-powered engine with an electric motor system. Drivers can select between all-gas, all-electric, or hybrid power consumption, giving you full control of fuel economy and battery usage. All told, the Grand Cherokee 4xe has an average fuel consumption of 56 MPGe, which may sound very attractive to those who have spent far more time than they wanted sitting in traffic.

In the Country

We also happen to live in a beautiful part of the country. From the rolling grassy hillsides of farm country to the caves and mountains in the southern part of the state, Kentucky is a glorious sight to behold from the road.

Perhaps you’re the type of driver who doesn’t necessarily need a vehicle that can ford a river, but maybe one that can take the family down to do a little camping now and then. Consider the seven to eight-seat Jeep Wagoneer family, which includes the Wagoneer, the Wagoneer L, the Grand Wagoneer, the Grand Wagoneer L, and the Wagoneer S. The L designation refers to a longer wheelbase—an additional 7 inches for the wheelbase and 12 inches of overall length for each. The S refers to the upcoming electrified Wagoneer, which shares the adventurous spirit and generous size of its gasoline-powered siblings while being 100% electric-powered.

Equipped with a fun 420 hp 3.0L V6 engine, the 2024 Wagoneer is offered in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, though the top Series III trim is offered in 4×4 only. While the Wagoneer is equipped with two available 4×4 systems and an available Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, these features add stability on the pavement as well as dirt roads. Those looking for even more of everything might select the Grand Wagoneer instead. With its 510-hp Hurricane twin-turbo engine, it is capable of a 5.9 second 0-60 mile per hour acceleration as well as towing loads up to 9,800 lbs.

If the rolling grassy hillsides are your home and not necessarily your vacation destination, consider the Jeep Gladiator. It’s not just an off-road capable pickup truck—it’s an off-road vehicle with a pickup bed. From running fences in the mud and rain to running bags of feed and equipment back and forth, the Gladiator handles mud, snow, sludge, rocky terrain, and pavement with no problem. Furthermore, 2024 Gladiator models can handle payloads up to 1,725 lbs or tow up to 7,700 lbs, making them pretty capable partners. And yes, you can take the roof and doors off for a little extra fun.

Where the Pavement Ends

It’s actually possible to select a Trail Rated model in every Jeep vehicle. Many drivers don’t know that the Compass Trailhawk is an actual rock star, with Selec-Terrain drive modes, available Active Drive Low 4×4 system for ultimate articulation, and high air intakes so you can cross more water than the average compact SUV. Is the Compass factory ready for major exploration of uncharted territory? No, but with the Trailhawk’s Trail Rated badge, Jeep happily endorses some beginner trails and unimproved roads.

But of course, the Jeep Wrangler gets the most credit as an off-roading vehicle, and for good reason. There are 8 different Wrangler trims. Many of these trims are offered in two or four-door configurations. Drivers can customize their Wranglers with fixed or removable hard or soft tops. Multiple 4×4 systems are available, ranging from impressive capability to extremely technical. With available features like Tru-Lok front and rear Electronic Locking Differentials, electric sway bars and rock rails, and a heavy-duty full-float rear axle, Wrangler models don’t necessarily need a road to get where they’re going. For every trail, there is a Jeep, though not every Jeep requires a trail—that part is entirely up to the driver.

Choosing the Right Jeep for Your Drivestyle

There are many advantages to having a rugged vehicle, even if your lifestyle doesn’t include anything bumpier than the occasional pothole. When the roads get wet or cold, many drivers find that all-wheel drive gives them peace of mind in addition to extra traction and balance. Sure, a Jeep is a great choice for all your off-roading needs, but even if you have no off-roading needs at all, a Jeep model can be a great choice for you, your family, and your sense of adventure.

Whether you fill the cargo area with your shopping, souvenirs, or survival supplies for a week in the wild, Jeep vehicles are prepared to get you wherever you need to go, whenever you need to drive there. Come in today and speak with our knowledgeable team. Tell them what you’re looking for in a Jeep vehicle, and they’ll offer you a variety of options to enhance your daily commute, weekend in the wilderness, and everything in between!