New Jeep Grand Cherokee

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The automotive landscape is constantly evolving, but few vehicles boast the enduring legacy and transformative appeal of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. For over three decades, the Grand Cherokee has been a benchmark in the SUV segment, synonymous with rugged capability, luxurious comfort, and innovative technology. The New Jeep Grand Cherokee, specifically referring to the fifth generation (WL chassis), represents a monumental leap forward, redefining what a premium SUV can be. It’s not merely an update; it’s a comprehensive reimagining that builds upon its iconic heritage while embracing the future with groundbreaking design, sophisticated powertrains, and an unprecedented level of refinement. This article serves as a detailed guide to understanding every facet of the New Jeep Grand Cherokee, exploring its design, technology, performance, safety, and various configurations, offering practical advice for potential owners, and answering common questions about this remarkable vehicle.

A Legacy Reimagined: Design and Exterior

New Jeep Grand Cherokee

The New Jeep Grand Cherokee immediately captivates with a design that is both familiar and strikingly modern. While retaining the unmistakable Jeep DNA, the fifth-generation model introduces a sleeker, more contemporary aesthetic that exudes sophistication. The iconic seven-slot grille is wider and more prominent, seamlessly integrating with slim, LED headlamps that lend a high-tech signature. The overall silhouette is more aerodynamic, with a lower roofline and a tapered rear, enhancing both fuel efficiency and visual appeal.

Jeep offers the New Jeep Grand Cherokee in two primary configurations: the standard two-row model and the longer, three-row Grand Cherokee L. The Grand Cherokee L, with its extended wheelbase, not only accommodates more passengers but also presents a more stately and commanding presence on the road. Both versions feature refined body lines, pronounced wheel arches, and a sculpted profile that hints at their underlying capability. Premium exterior details like available 21-inch wheels, gloss black accents, and a contrasting black roof on higher trims further elevate its luxurious appeal. The attention to detail, from the flush-mounted glass to the intricate LED taillights, underscores Jeep’s commitment to craftsmanship in the New Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The Pinnacle of Comfort and Technology: Interior and Infotainment

Step inside the New Jeep Grand Cherokee, and you’re greeted by an interior that redefines premium. Jeep has meticulously crafted a cabin that blends luxurious materials with cutting-edge technology, creating an environment that is both opulent and highly functional. Soft-touch surfaces, open-pore wood trim, and genuine metal accents are prevalent throughout, especially in higher trims like the Summit and Summit Reserve. The seating, whether clad in premium cloth, Nappa leather, or Palermo leather, offers exceptional comfort and support, with available massage functions for front occupants.

Spaciousness is a key highlight, particularly in the Grand Cherokee L, which provides ample room for up to seven passengers across three rows. Even the two-row New Jeep Grand Cherokee offers generous legroom and cargo capacity, making it versatile for various lifestyles.

At the heart of the New Jeep Grand Cherokee’s technological prowess is the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. This intuitive system boasts a brilliant 10.1-inch touchscreen (with an available 10.25-inch passenger-side display) and offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated Amazon Alexa, and over-the-air updates. Complementing this are a customizable 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a full-color head-up display, and an available McIntosh high-fidelity audio system, transforming the cabin into a mobile concert hall. The available front passenger interactive display allows the co-pilot to manage navigation, entertainment, and even view the exterior cameras, adding a unique dimension to the passenger experience. Practical considerations like abundant USB ports (including USB-C), a wireless charging pad, and available ambient lighting further enhance convenience and luxury.

Powertrain Options: Performance Meets Efficiency

The New Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a compelling range of powertrains, balancing robust performance with improved efficiency, culminating in a groundbreaking plug-in hybrid option.

• 3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine: The tried-and-true 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 remains the standard engine, delivering 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission, this engine provides ample power for daily driving and light towing (up to 6,200 lbs). It’s a reliable and efficient choice for most buyers, offering a good balance of performance and fuel economy.

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  2.0L Turbo Plug-in Hybrid (4xe): The true game-changer for the New Jeep Grand Cherokee is the 4xe (four-by-e) powertrain. This innovative system combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a 400-volt battery pack, delivering a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The 4xe is not just about efficiency; it’s also incredibly capable, offering up to 25 miles of all-electric range and a combined range of over 470 miles. Its instant electric torque enhances off-road capability, allowing for silent trail exploration. Charging can be done at home with a Level 2 charger (240V) in a few hours or via regenerative braking while driving. The 4xe is designed to be a no-compromise solution, offering the best of both worlds: electric efficiency for daily commutes and the legendary Jeep capability for adventures.

Unrivaled Capability: Off-Road Prowess and Driving Dynamics

Jeep’s reputation for off-road capability is legendary, and the New Jeep Grand Cherokee proudly carries that torch. Despite its newfound luxury, it remains a highly capable vehicle when the pavement ends.

• Advanced 4×4 Systems: The New Jeep Grand Cherokee offers three available 4×4 systems:
  • Quadra-Trac I: A full-time 4×4 system with a single-speed transfer case.
  • Quadra-Trac II: Features a two-speed transfer case for low-range gearing and a limited-slip differential for enhanced traction.
  • Quadra-Drive II: The most advanced system, adding an electronic limited-slip differential at the rear for superior traction control in extreme conditions.
• Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System: This system optimizes vehicle performance for various terrains, with modes like Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, and Mud/Sand. It electronically coordinates 4×4 torque split, braking, and steering, ensuring optimal grip.
• Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension: Available on higher trims, this system provides up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance and allows the driver to raise or lower the vehicle for improved off-road capability, easier entry/exit, or enhanced highway aerodynamics.
• Articulated Axles and Approach Angles: The New Jeep Grand Cherokee boasts impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles, crucial for navigating challenging obstacles.
• Water Fording: With up to 24 inches of water-fording capability, the Grand Cherokee is ready for more adventurous trails.

On the road, the New Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers a surprisingly refined and composed ride. The sophisticated independent front and multi-link rear suspension, combined with the optional Quadra-Lift air suspension, effectively dampens road imperfections, providing a smooth and comfortable experience. Steering is precise, and body roll is well-controlled, making it an enjoyable vehicle for long highway cruises and daily commutes alike.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features: A Shield of Innovation

Safety is a paramount concern in the New Jeep Grand Cherokee, which comes equipped with an extensive suite of standard and available safety and driver-assistance technologies. Jeep has engineered the vehicle to provide peace of mind for all occupants, offering over 110 advanced safety and security features.

Standard Safety Features Include:

• Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking and Pedestrian/Cyclist Detection
• Rear Cross Path Detection
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
• Active Lane Management
• LaneSense Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
• Blind-Spot Monitoring
• ParkSense Rear Park Assist Sensors with Stop
• Rear View Camera with Dynamic Gridlines

Available Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) Offer Even More Protection:

• Intersection Collision Assist: Helps detect vehicles approaching from the side at intersections.
• Drowsy Driver Detection: Monitors driving patterns for signs of fatigue.
• Night Vision Camera: Uses infrared technology to detect pedestrians and animals in low-light conditions.
• Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist: Semi-autonomous parking assistance.
• Traffic Sign Recognition: Reads and displays speed limit and other road signs.
• Digital Rearview Mirror: Provides an unobstructed view of the rear via a camera feed.
• Hands-on Active Driving Assist: A Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system that can assist with steering, braking, and acceleration on approved highways, requiring the driver’s hands to remain on the wheel.

These features collectively create a comprehensive safety net, helping to prevent accidents and mitigate their severity, making the New Jeep Grand Cherokee one of the safest vehicles in its class.

Trims and Configurations: Tailoring Your Grand Cherokee

The New Jeep Grand Cherokee is offered in a wide array of trims, allowing buyers to tailor their vehicle to their specific needs, preferences, and budget. Each trim level builds upon the previous one, adding more features, luxury, and capability.

• Laredo: The entry-level trim, offering standard features like LED lighting, Uconnect 5 with a 10.1-inch screen, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
• Altitude: Adds gloss black exterior accents, 20-inch black wheels, heated front seats, and a remote start system for a sportier look and enhanced comfort.
• Limited: A popular choice, adding Capri leather-trimmed seats, heated steering wheel, power liftgate, and integrated navigation. This is also where the 4xe powertrain often becomes available.
• Overland: Elevates luxury with Nappa leather seats, Quadra-Lift air suspension, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats. It also adds more off-road tech.
• Summit: The epitome of luxury, featuring Palermo leather, a premium McIntosh audio system, front passenger interactive display, and advanced safety features like Intersection Collision Assist.
• Summit Reserve: The top-tier trim, offering the ultimate in luxury and technology with unique 21-inch wheels, open-pore wood trim, quilted Palermo leather, and a wider array of standard ADAS features.

Remember, each of these trims is available for both the two-row Grand Cherokee and the three-row Grand Cherokee L, with the 4xe powertrain generally available from the Limited trim upwards.

Choosing Your Grand Cherokee: Practical Advice and Considerations

Selecting the perfect New Jeep Grand Cherokee requires careful consideration of your lifestyle, needs, and budget.

1. Assess Your Seating Needs: If you regularly carry more than five passengers or need significant cargo space with flexibility, the Grand Cherokee L is the clear choice. For smaller families or those who prioritize maneuverability and a slightly more compact footprint, the two-row Grand Cherokee is ideal.
2. Consider Your Driving Habits:
   • Daily Commutes/City Driving: The V6 engine offers ample power and good fuel economy.
   • Eco-Conscious/Short Commutes: The Grand Cherokee 4xe is perfect if you have access to charging and want to maximize electric driving for daily errands while retaining long-range capability.
   • Off-Road Enthusiast: Any 4×4 variant with Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II is excellent. The 4xe’s instant torque also makes it surprisingly capable off-road.
3. Evaluate Trim Levels:
   • Value-Oriented: Laredo or Altitude offer great features for the price.
   • Balanced Luxury and Features: Limited is often the sweet spot.
   • Ultimate Luxury/Technology: Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve deliver unparalleled comfort and advanced tech.
4. Test Drive: Always test drive your preferred configuration. Pay attention to ride comfort, handling, acceleration, and the user-friendliness of the infotainment system.
5. Budgeting and Financing: Factor in not just the purchase price but also potential running costs (fuel/electricity, insurance, maintenance). Explore financing options and potential incentives.
6. Aftermarket Support: Jeep has a vast aftermarket for accessories and modifications, should you wish to personalize your vehicle further.

Price Table: New Jeep Grand Cherokee

Please note that these are approximate starting MSRPs for the base configuration of each trim and do not include destination charges, options, or dealer markups. Actual prices may vary significantly based on location, dealer, and specific configurations.

Trim / Model	Grand Cherokee (2-row) V6 (Approx. MSRP)	Grand Cherokee L V6 (Approx. MSRP)	Grand Cherokee 4xe (PHEV) (Approx. MSRP)	Key Features / Notes
Laredo	$40,000	$42,000	N/A	Entry-level, LED lighting, Uconnect 5, standard safety suite.
Altitude	$44,000	$46,000	N/A	Sporty black accents, 20" black wheels, heated front seats, remote start.
Limited	$48,000	$50,000	$60,000	Capri leather, heated steering wheel, power liftgate, navigation. First 4xe option.
Overland	$60,000	$62,000	$68,000	Nappa leather, Quadra-Lift air suspension, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats.
Summit	$65,000	$67,000	$73,000	Palermo leather, McIntosh audio, passenger display, advanced ADAS.
Summit Reserve	$70,000	$72,000	$78,000	Top-tier luxury, quilted Palermo leather, 21" wheels, full suite of features.

Note: 4×4 systems are typically optional on lower trims and standard on higher trims and all 4xe models. Prices are subject to change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the New Jeep Grand Cherokee

Q1: What’s the main difference between the Grand Cherokee and the Grand Cherokee L?
A1: The primary difference is size and seating capacity. The Grand Cherokee is a two-row, five-passenger SUV with a standard wheelbase. The Grand Cherokee L is a three-row, six or seven-passenger SUV with an extended wheelbase, offering more interior space, especially for rear passengers and cargo.

Q2: What is the Grand Cherokee 4xe, and how does it work?
A2: The Grand Cherokee 4xe is a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). It combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors and a battery pack. This allows it to operate on pure electric power for a certain range (approx. 25 miles), hybrid power for maximum efficiency, or gasoline power when the battery is depleted. It can be charged by plugging it into an external power source or through regenerative braking.

Q3: What is the towing capacity of the New Jeep Grand Cherokee?
A3: The towing capacity varies by engine and configuration. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 can tow up to 6,200 lbs. The 2.0L Turbo 4xe (PHEV) also offers a robust towing capacity, typically up to 6,000 lbs. Always check your specific vehicle’s manual for exact towing limits.

Q4: Is the New Jeep Grand Cherokee still good off-road despite its luxury?
A4: Absolutely. While more luxurious, the New Jeep Grand Cherokee maintains its legendary off-road capability. With available Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II 4×4 systems, Selec-Terrain traction management, and the Quadra-Lift air suspension, it remains one of the most capable SUVs in its class for tackling challenging terrain. The 4xe’s instant electric torque even enhances low-speed off-road control.

Q5: What kind of fuel economy can I expect?
A5: For the 3.6L V6, expect around 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway for 4×2 models, and slightly less for 4×4. The Grand Cherokee 4xe (PHEV) is rated with an impressive 56 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined, taking into account its electric range, and around 23 MPG combined on gasoline once the battery is depleted. Actual mileage will vary based on driving conditions and habits.

Q6: Does the New Jeep Grand Cherokee offer advanced driver-assistance features?
A6: Yes, the New Jeep Grand Cherokee offers an extensive suite of over 110 standard and available safety and security features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more advanced systems like Intersection Collision Assist, Night Vision, and Hands-on Active Driving Assist on higher trims.

Conclusion

The New Jeep Grand Cherokee stands as a testament to Jeep’s unwavering commitment to innovation, luxury, and legendary capability. It has successfully evolved from a rugged off-roader to a sophisticated, technologically advanced premium SUV, without sacrificing its adventurous spirit. Whether you opt for the versatile two-row model, the family-friendly Grand Cherokee L, or the cutting-edge 4xe plug-in hybrid, this fifth-generation vehicle delivers an unparalleled blend of comfort, performance, and advanced safety. It is a vehicle that truly does it all, excelling on city streets, conquering challenging trails, and providing a refined sanctuary for its occupants. The New Jeep Grand Cherokee isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a statement – a bold declaration that the future of adventure and luxury has arrived, ready to carry its iconic legacy into a new era.