Jeep debuted the all-new Grand Cherokee L back in January of this year. It was shown off in a long-wheelbase, three-row form (hence the “L”), with the two-row version to be launched later in the year. Fans of the nameplate who craved for the smaller Grand Cherokee can finally stop holding their breath as it has just been unveiled.
Unsurprisingly, it looks similar to the L, with the same front fascia, slim features, and boxy shape. The differences come in the (obviously) shrunken wheelbase (by 127mm), and wraparound taillights. Wheel options are up to a massive 21 inches, and it is still a good-looking SUV, no doubt.
The Grand Cherokee’s cabin is not only spacious and luxurious with various material and trim options, but is also loaded with tech. These include 10.1- and 10.25-inch screens powered by the latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system (which supports wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, and a full set of driver aids like active driving assist with automated steering, and 360° and night-vision cameras.
Also new is the Grand Cherokee 4xe, a plug-in hybrid variant similar to the Wrangler 4xe. It pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged in-line-four engine and two electric motors for a total output of 375hp and 637Nm. Electric-only range is pegged at 40km, but it’s still capable enough to tow up to 2,720kg.
Other powerplant choices include an all-aluminum 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 good for 293hp and 353Nm, and a 5.7-liter V8 with 357hp and 529Nm. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models. The V8 engine can tow a class-leading 3,265kg, while the V6 can pull up to 2,812kg.
The new Grand Cherokee lineup consists of Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Trailhawk, Summit and Summit Reserve trim levels. The V6 comes as standard on all variants, while the V8 is available on the Overland, the Trailhawk, the Summit and the Summit Reserve. The 4xe powertrain is confined to the Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit and Summit Reserve grades.
The Trailhawk trim is the most capable Grand Cherokee off the road, featuring upgrades such as 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, Quadra-Lift air suspension, Quadra-Drive II four-wheel drive with an active transfer case and an electronic limited-slip rear differential, skid plates, red tow hooks, and a black-and-red matte “Trailhawk” hood decal. If you opt for the 4xe powertrain, it swaps the red for blue decals, tow hooks, and wheel accents.
The all-new Grand Cherokee will make its way to North American Jeep dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2021, while the 4xe is scheduled to arrive in 2022. The model should reach global markets afterward. Excited for one?
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