The term "2017 Grand Cherokee Black" typically refers either to vehicles finished in Jeep's flagship Diamond Black Crystal Pearlcoat paint or factory blacked-out trim packages like the Altitude and High Altitude editions. These models combine distinctive dark exterior accents, dark aluminum wheels, and black interior cabin styling with proven V6 or V8 powertrains.
Deciphering the 2017 Grand Cherokee Black Styling Options
When shopping for a blacked-out 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee, buyers often encounter confusing nomenclature across listing sites. The designation "black" can indicate the exterior paint finish, an optional appearance package, a specific trim tier, or a combination of all three.
Diamond Black Crystal Pearlcoat Paint (Paint Code PXJ)
For the 2017 model year, Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram utilized Diamond Black Crystal Pearlcoat as the primary black paint option across the Grand Cherokee lineup, effectively replacing the older Brilliant Black. Unlike a flat non-metallic jet black, Diamond Black incorporates fine metallic specks embedded within the paint matrix. Under direct sunshine, this pearlcoat yields a subtle dark charcoal micro-flake sparkle, while under shaded or nighttime conditions, it presents a deep glossy black finish.
Maintaining this finish requires attention to detail. Black pearlcoat shows micro-scratches, swirl marks from automated car washes, and dried water spots more prominently than lighter metallic colors.
The Grand Cherokee Altitude Edition
The most popular factory blacked-out variant is the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude. Built upon the accessible Laredo E trim foundation, the Altitude package elevates the base crossover into a aggressive street-styled SUV without requiring a jump to top-tier pricing.
Key exterior features standard on the 2017 Altitude include:
- 20-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels fitted with all-season performance tires.
- Gloss Black exterior accents, including grille surrounds, fog lamp bezels, lower front fascia inserts, and rear step pad applique.
- Blacked-out badging, removing chrome logos in favor of low-gloss black Jeep and 4x4 emblem overlays.
- Dual bright exhaust tips paired with dark rear valance accents.
Inside, the Altitude features black leather-trimmed seats with synthetic suede (Suede/Leather combination) inserts, black stitching, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The Grand Cherokee High Altitude Edition
Positioned further up the luxury spectrum, the 2017 High Altitude Edition is built on the premium Overland trim. While the standard Altitude delivers a sporty blacked-out look on a basic equipment frame, the High Altitude merges dark aesthetic accents with full luxury features.
Distinguishing features of the High Altitude package include:
- Dark Chrome exterior trim on the grille slots, door moldings, lower fascia trim, and tailgate accents.
- 20-inch dark-finished aluminum wheels in a distinct multi-spoke pattern.
- Quadra-Lift Air Suspension, providing adjustable ride height and dynamic aerodynamics at highway speeds.
- Dual-pane panoramic sunroof standard across all builds.
- Premium Nappa leather seating in solid black with dark contrast piping.
Performance Black Variants: SRT with Night Package
For high-performance enthusiasts, the 2017 Grand Cherokee SRT offered an optional Night Package. This trim treatment added a Gloss Black roof, Gloss Black 20-inch forged "5-spoke" wheels, satin black badging, and a black front lower fascia brow. Paired with Diamond Black exterior paint, the SRT Night Package creates the ultimate factory "stealth" build powered by a 475-horsepower naturally aspirated V8.
Engine Options and Drivetrain Performance
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers several powertrain configurations depending on whether the vehicle is an Altitude, High Altitude, Limited, or SRT.
| 2017 Engine Lineup | Output | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 295 hp / 260 lb-ft | Standard on most trims |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 360 hp / 390 lb-ft | Optional 4x4 trims |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 (SRT) | 475 hp / 470 lb-ft | SRT only |
3.6-Liter Pentastar V6
The standard engine on the Altitude and available across most other trims is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. For 2017, this engine delivered 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, benefiting from two-stage variable valve lift (VVL) and an automatic Engine Stop-Start (ESS) system aimed at improving city fuel efficiency. The V6 provides adequate acceleration for daily commuting and mid-range passing, achieving an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway in two-wheel-drive configurations (18/25 mpg for 4WD).
5.7-Liter HEMI V8
Available as an option on 4x4 models of the Limited, Overland, High Altitude, and Summit trims, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 generates 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. This engine utilizes Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and a Multi-Displacement System (MDS) fuel-saver technology that shuts down four cylinders during light-load highway cruising. The V8 increases maximum towing capacity to 7,400 pounds, compared to the V6 modelβs 6,200-pound limit.
6.4-Liter HEMI V8 (SRT)
Exclusive to the high-performance SRT model, the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 puts out 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an upgraded high-torque 8HP70 transmission, it propels the heavy 4x4 SUV from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds.
Transmission and 4x4 Systems
All 2017 Grand Cherokee models utilize a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission (the 850RE for V6 models and the 8HP70 for V8 models). This transmission provides quick, smooth gear shifts and optimal engine speeds at highway rates.
For 4x4 configurations, three distinct transfer case systems exist:
- Quadra-Trac I: A single-speed full-time 4WD system (standard on V6 4x4 Altitude models) requiring no driver input. It lacks a low-range reduction gear.
- Quadra-Trac II: Features a two-speed transfer case with a 4-Low setting and Select-Terrain traction management (Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud, Rock).
- Quadra-Drive II: Standard on high-end models like the High Altitude 4x4, adding an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (ELSD) on the rear axle to transfer up to 100% of available engine torque to a single wheel with traction.
2017 Grand Cherokee Black Trims: Comparative Breakdown
To help identify the differences between the various blacked-out trims and color options available in the 2017 model year, review the core specifications below:
| Feature / Specification | Altitude Edition | High Altitude Edition | Limited (in Diamond Black) | SRT (with Night Package) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Trim Foundation | Laredo E | Overland | Limited | SRT Base |
| Standard Engine | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6.4L HEMI V8 |
| Optional Engine | None | 5.7L HEMI V8 | 5.7L HEMI V8 | None |
| Wheel Size & Finish | 20" Gloss Black | 20" Dark Chrome/Granite | 18" Polished (20" optional) | 20" Forged Gloss Black |
| Exterior Accents | Gloss Black | Dark Chrome | Bright Chrome | Satin Black / Gloss Roof |
| Suspension Type | Standard Steel Coil | Quadra-Lift Air Suspension | Standard Steel Coil | Adaptive Bilstein Damping |
| Max Towing (4x4) | 6,200 lbs | 7,400 lbs (with V8) | 7,400 lbs (with V8) | 7,200 lbs |
| Seating Material | Leather / Suede Combo | Premium Nappa Leather | Capri Leather | Leather / Laguna Option |
| Sunroof | Power Single-Pane | Dual-Pane Panoramic | Power Single-Pane | Dual-Pane Panoramic |
Interior Options and Infotainment Considerations
The interior layout of a black 2017 Grand Cherokee depends heavily on the chosen trim level.
Cabin Aesthetics
- Altitude Models: Feature an all-black cockpit with anodized gunmetal interior trim accents, black suede seat inserts surrounded by leather bolsters, and dark headliners.
- High Altitude & Summit Models: Feature black Nappa leather seating with contrast stitching, leather-wrapped instrument panel dashboard, open-pore wood inserts, and a suede-like premium headliner.
- SRT Models: Add real carbon-fiber trim on the dashboard and door panels, a flat-bottom performance steering wheel, and aggressive leather sport bolsters.
Uconnect 8.4 Infotainment Capabilities
The 2017 model year used the Uconnect 8.4 system (generations RA3 and RA4). It includes a crisp 8.4-inch touchscreen interface, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, HD Radio, and integrated navigation capabilities (standard on higher trims, optional on Altitude).
Crucial Used-Buyer Note: The 2017 Grand Cherokee Uconnect system does not support factory Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was introduced in the 2018 model year with the rollout of the 4th-generation Uconnect system (Uconnect 4C). Buyers who require native smartphone projection in a 2017 model must rely on third-party aftermarket head units or retrofitted 2018+ Uconnect modules.
Used Market Buyer's Guide: Common Issues and Inspection Checklist
Buying a used 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee requires evaluating known mechanical failure points and body maintenance specific to dark-colored vehicles.
1. Engine Mechanical Points
- Pentastar V6 Rocker Arms: The 3.6L engine can develop a distinct ticking sound from under the valve covers. This indicates a failed needle bearing inside an intake or exhaust rocker arm. If left unaddressed, a damaged rocker arm will score the camshaft lobe, requiring expensive repairs.
- Oil Filter Housing Leaks: The plastic oil filter housing mounted in the engine valley on 3.6L engines is prone to heat degradation and cracking over time. Look for fresh engine oil pooling beneath the engine or dripping onto the transmission bell housing. Aluminum aftermarket replacements solve this issue permanently.
- HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolts: On 5.7L V8 models, inspect for a metallic snapping noise during cold starts. The rear exhaust manifold bolts frequently shear off due to heat cycle expansion, creating an exhaust leak until the engine warms up.
2. Quadra-Lift Air Suspension Reliability
Models equipped with the Quadra-Lift Air Suspension (such as the High Altitude, Summit, and optional Overland models) utilize pneumatic rubber air springs at each corner powered by a closed-loop nitrogen compressor system.
- Failure Modes: Over time, rubber air bladders develop dry-rot leaks, causing the compressor to run continuously until it overheats and fails. Replacing failed air struts or compressors is expensive.
- Buyer Check: Park the vehicle on level ground and select "Off-Road 2" mode to ensure all four corners rise smoothly and evenly. Listen for a continuously running air compressor pump under the front bumper or vehicle sagging after sitting overnight. Standard steel-coil suspensions found on the Altitude trim bypass this failure point completely.
3. Clear Coat and Paint Condition
Diamond Black Crystal Pearlcoat shows vehicle history clearly. Prior to purchase:
- Inspect for clear coat failure, deep scratches, and poor panel repaints.
- Examine lower rocker panels and the hood nose for stone chips that have exposed raw metal to moisture, which leads to surface rust.
- Check for swirl marks; severe buffer trails may require multi-stage paint correction to restore clarity.
Verify vehicle history and check open safety alerts via the official NHTSA Recalls Database.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Grand Cherokee Altitude and a standard Black Grand Cherokee?
A standard black Grand Cherokee refers to any trim level (Laredo, Limited, Overland) painted in Diamond Black Crystal Pearlcoat, which may still retain chrome window trim, silver grilles, and standard aluminum wheels. The Altitude is a specific appearance package that deletes external chrome, substituting it with Gloss Black trim, black badging, dark interior accents, and standard 20-inch Gloss Black wheels.
Does the 2017 Grand Cherokee Altitude come with a V8 engine?
No. The 2017 Altitude edition was offered exclusively with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. If you require a V8 engine in a blacked-out trim package, look for the High Altitude (based on the Overland), a Limited with dark accents, or an SRT.
How much can a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Black model tow?
Towing capacity depends on the engine and installed tow package rather than the black trim. V6 models (including the Altitude) equipped with a factory trailer tow package can tow up to 6,200 pounds. Models equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 engine and class IV hitch offer a maximum tow capacity of 7,400 pounds.
Can I get Apple CarPlay on a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Factory Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not offered on any 2017 Grand Cherokee model. Jeep introduced these features for the 2018 model year with the 4th-generation Uconnect system. Adding smartphone mirror integration to a 2017 model requires installing an aftermarket head unit or retrofitting a 2018+ Uconnect 4C (UAQ/UAS) receiver unit.
Which 4x4 system does the 2017 Grand Cherokee Altitude use?
Four-wheel-drive 2017 Altitude models use Jeep's Quadra-Trac I system. This full-time single-speed 4WD system operates continuously without requiring driver intervention. It does not include a low-range transfer case or terrain-selection dial, making it suitable for rain, snow, and light dirt trails rather than extreme off-roading.
Final Buyer Guidance: Selecting the Right Black Trim
Choosing the right blacked-out 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes down to balancing styling preferences, feature requirements, and ongoing maintenance costs:
- For Low Maintenance & Sporty Looks: Target the Altitude Edition. Its steel coil spring suspension eliminates air system repair risks, while its factory 20-inch Gloss Black wheels and dark trim deliver a clean, customized look straight off the line.
- For Factory Luxury & High Towing Capacity: Target the High Altitude Edition with the 5.7L V8. This combination gives you Nappa leather, a dual-pane sunroof, dark chrome accents, and 7,400 lbs of towing capacity. Be sure to budget for eventual Quadra-Lift air suspension maintenance.
- For Maximum Performance: Search for a Grand Cherokee SRT with the optional Night Package, keeping in mind that brake maintenance and fuel expenses will be significantly higher than standard V6 variants.
Prioritize models with documented oil-change histories and complete a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the Pentastar rocker arms, cooling system, and air suspension functionality before finalizing a sale.
