Rating
Quick Summary
Average. Jeep's flagship model doesn't quite match up to its lofty ambitions and inflated pricing
Road Test
Jeep has slipped from the public consciousness in recent times, thanks largely to falling sales of its key models. The recent takeover of the company by Fiat has reinvigorated the brand somewhat, and the new Grand Cherokee is one of the cars it hopes will ease it back into our collective awareness.
It has changed noticeably from the chunky and utilitarian beast that last wore the Grand Cherokee badge, and the styling is much the better for it. The front end is much more purposeful looking thanks to the new squarer headlights and smoother vertical-lined grille. The three-sided wheel arches are retained though, giving a muscular look to the flanks, while 20-inch alloys fill the arches well.
The rediscovered touch of class continues in the cabin, with a fantastic level of equipment on offer. The amount and appearance of the wood in some of the trim levels will not appeal to all, but the darker colours are appropriate if Jeep is seriously intent on rivalling the Volkswagen Touareg and Land Rover Discovery.
A high-quality stereo with a large hard drive, powered and heated front and reclining rear seats, and a huge sunroof on the higher trim level enhance comfort levels inside, while a lengthening of the overall wheelbase improves rear space by as much as 100mm. The finish lets the experience down; there are several gaps between parts of the trim, and plastics at eye level and below the window line don't match the materials of the centre console.
On the road the experience of driving a Grand Cherokee is vastly improved over the old model thanks largely to better ride quality and a conspicuous absence of the former Jeep's chronic mid-bend lean. With the air suspension that comes with the higher trim model the car is even sprightly and comfortable, although it does rather highlight the shortcomings of the standard springs.
A slightly antiquated feeling five-speed gearbox prevents the Jeep from displaying the wafting luxury that has become commonplace in this class. Changes are smooth enough, but it's a touch frenetic when pushed. The big 3.0-litre diesel engine is willing enough, although fuel economy is just short of its VW rivals.
Head off road though, and both trim levels perform just as you would hope from a car bearing the Jeep badge. Pretty much everything you could want for tackling tricky terrain is standard, including low ratio gears, hill descent, locking differential and a removable front air dam to improve the approach angle. The top level model also comes with an adjustable ride height and a terrain select system that lets the driver choose between settings for sand and mud, snow, rock and sport.
So the Jeep is just as capable as you would hope given the brand's heritage, but the interior finish and atmosphere is not up to the standard you might expect from a car that costs around £40,000.
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