In 2012, the Jeep Grand Cherokee used a five-speed automatic transmission across its engine options. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 paired with a standard 5‑speed automatic, while the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 used the TorqueFlite 545RFE 5‑speed automatic. An eight-speed automatic was not offered in the 2012 model year.
Transmission options by engine
The following overview summarizes the primary engine/transmission pairings available for the 2012 Grand Cherokee.
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 — 5-speed automatic transmission
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8 — TorqueFlite 545RFE 5-speed automatic
These configurations reflect the standard drivetrain choices for the 2012 model year in the United States. There was no manual transmission option, and the eight-speed automatic would not appear in this generation until later years.
Why the transmission choice matters
The five-speed automatics offered in the 2012 Grand Cherokee were chosen to balance everyday drivability with the torque demands of the V8 and the efficiency needs of the V6. The TorqueFlite 545RFE is a robust unit designed to handle the heavier payload and off-road duties associated with Jeep’s all-wheel-drive systems.
Notes for buyers and owners
When evaluating a 2012 Grand Cherokee, confirm the exact engine and transmission combination on the vehicle’s VIN or window sticker. Regular maintenance and the correct fluid type are important to keep the 5-speed transmissions performing reliably over time.
Summary
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee used a five-speed automatic transmission across its lineup: a standard 5-speed for the 3.6L V6 and the TorqueFlite 545RFE 5-speed automatic for the 5.7L Hemi. An eight-speed automatic would come later, but there was no manual option for this model year.