#13 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Refined, rugged and luxurious

The Jeep Grand Cherokee occupies an envied spot in the automotive segment. The Grand Cherokee is one of the pioneers that kicked off the SUV craze in the early 1990s. The Grand Cherokee is a capable off-road machine that has, at least two times, saved Chrysler's corporate credibility.

Jeep Grand Cherokee 

The Grand Cherokee keeps the Jeep tradition by remaining practical, luxurious, and rugged Sports Utility Vehicle. These three characteristics have made the Grand Cherokee an appealing alternative not only to a saloon, crossover, or estate but also to expensive SUV’s offered by other brands.

Looks

The Jeep Grand Cherokee design build’s on the outgoing model’s cohesive and upscale design. This consists of an upper seven-slot front grille, which is shorter than the one on the outgoing model. The new front headlamps are now slimmer and more attractive. The Jeep Grand Cherokee also incorporates a signature front and rear LED lighting.

Appealing front look 

The lower front fascia has been slightly elevated, while the fog lights are raised and are more pronounced. The profile of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is dominated by trapezoidal wheel arches that house the standard five-spoke 18-inch polished aluminium wheels. The rear of the Jeep Grand Cherokee features larger tail lamps, with signature LED lighting, a larger rear spoiler that aids in efficient aerodynamics, and a re-sculpted tailgate that offers greater rear visibility.

Power unit 

Performance

The Jeep Grand Cherokee bonnet is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which boasts 216 kW (290 hp) and 352 Nm of torque. The power unit consumes an average of 9.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. Structural, intake and exhaust areas of the 3.6-liter V-6 engine are designed to deliver low levels of overall noise and achieve specific sound quality goals that meet discerning customer requirements. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 is paired to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides better fuel economy, quicker acceleration, and smoother shifting. Fully electronic, the eight-speed automatic features manual shifting capability using steering-wheel paddle controls.

Capable off-road 

Ride

The Jeep Grand Cherokee glides on surfaces via a rugged Quadra-Lift air suspension system. The Quadra-Lift system features five height settings for optimum ride performance. The independent front and rear suspension features isolated suspension frames. The frames, along with variable-rate rear springs, deliver improved on-road handling and comfort.

LED headlamps 

They also complement the SUV's legendary off-road capability. The rear suspension also allows the spare tire to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath. When the Eco button is switched on at speeds of 90 km/h and above the Jeep Grand Cherokee lowers to improve its aerodynamic capabilities. At the rear are load-levelling shocks. When items are placed in the boot, the shocks gas pressure increases to ensure the SUV remains levelled.

Polished aluminum wheels 

Cabin

Matching the flamboyant exterior is an equally posh interior. Step inside the Jeep Grand Cherokee and one quickly notices the classy centre console, with 8.4-inch touch screen. Controls for radio and climate are found below the screen.

Cockpit 

The driver shift the 8-speed transmission via a T-handle shifter, adorned in leather. The three-spoke steering wheel is wrapped in leather. The Jeep Grand Cherokee incorporates standard paddle shifters, mounted on the back of the steering wheel. A new configurable multi-view display features a 7-inch Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) screen. 

Spacious boot 

The premium interior provides seating for up to five occupants. Soft-touch materials are used at key “touch points” throughout the interior. Both front seats are heated and ventilated with eight-way power assistance and four-way lumbar adjustment. The moulded shape of seat improves on occupant comfort.

Comfortable seats

The 12-degrees reclining rear seats, 60/40 split folding, together with the longer wheelbase, enhance comfort for rear passengers. Several storage and convenience features have been designed into the boot.  The spare tire has a dedicated space underneath the cargo floor. The rear cargo area also incorporates a storage unit with a re-chargeable flashlight.

One of the best SUVs in its class 

Verdict

The Jeep Grand Cherokee recent upgrades and latest advancements have now made it a top notch luxury SUV. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers plenty of luxury equipment that is visible on its more expensive rivals. However, Jeep's strong reputation for off-road prowess is retained, thanks in large part to the Grand Cherokee's advanced four-wheel-drive systems. Today's well-rounded Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to be among the most appealing SUVs in its class.