Scheduled for Australian launch early next year, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee range is now on-sale in North America.
Styling changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, but Jeep has delivered a more modern and aerodynamic look whilst maintaining the tough, chunky styling cues which are the hallmarks of the American off-road King. New 18-inch and 20-inch wheels look the part and jeep says the new body structure is actually 146 per cent stiffer for improved ride and reduced NVH.
Addressing criticisms of the current models, the front doors of the new Grand Cherokee open wide through 78 degrees for easier access and cargo volume grows by 11 per cent.
But the big news is underneath - a new 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, Jeep Quadra-Lift air suspension system and Selec-Terrain adjustable traction control.
Quadra-Lift air suspension combines with the two 4x4 systems (Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II with rear electronic limited slip differential) plus the new Selec-Terrain system to provide the al-new Cherokee with imposing off-road credentials. Selec-Terrain, like similar systems found in the Range Rover lineup, allows the driver to select one of the five traction control systems that best suits the encountered conditions.
Chrysler’s much-heralded Pentastar V6 petrol engine sounds like a winner. An alloy 60-degree V6 with double overhead camshafts and variable valve timing, it delivers 210kW/347Nm, but fuel consumption is down by 10 per cent to 11.4l/100kms and C02 emissions are similarly reduced to 265g/km.
The 240kW/500Nm, 5.7-litre V8 remains and provides Grand Cherokee with a 3500kgs towing capacity (2268kgs for the V6).
Inside, Jeep says the newcomer is the most luxurious and refined Grand Cherokee ever. Obvious improvements include a new CommandView dual sunroof, extra leg room and premium soft-touch trim materials.
Here at Car Showroom, we’re very keen on the Grand Cherokee and we can’t wait to drive the new model range. Chrysler Australia will announce full local specifications and pricing closer to the first quarter 2011 launch date.
