Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 redesigned Grand Cherokee is slightly larger than the previous version. Its core powertrains carry over: 3.6-liter V6 and 5.7-liter V8. The new 4xe plug-in hybrid version uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, coupled with an electric drive, and provides 25 miles of electric-only range. All engines are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Center stage is a Uconnect 5 infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There is an optional screen for the front passenger, and available rear-seat entertainment. AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, BSW, RCTW, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control are all standard.

The 2014 freshening improved the Grand Cherokee's road-test score considerably. Better controls, improved fit and finish and a new eight-speed automatic transmission are among the highlights. The mid-range Limited model is a good choice, as it comes with a back-up camera and a power liftgate, along with heat for the leather seats and steering wheel. As for engine choice, we'd get the 3.6-liter V6. If towing is an issue, get the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel, with its added fuel efficiency and torque. Safety features like antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control and stability control are all standard. Optional driver aids include a rear backup sensing system and camera, blind spot warning, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, rear cross traffic warning and collision avoidance systems.

The 2011 redesign was a transformation, bringing a much better and more upscale vehicle with a fully independent suspension. Other attributes include modern cabin electronics, good handling and ride, attractive fit and finish, a quiet interior, and comfortable seats. The refined 3.6-liter V6 returned 18 mpg overall. The 5.7-liter V8 is capable of towing 7,400 pounds, but returned just 14 mpg in our testing. We got 24 mpg with the diesel. The Uconnect infotainment system is one of the best in the industry. Safety equipment includes antilock brakes, traction control, and stability control, all as standard equipment. A rear proximity sensor array and a rearview camera are also available.

For the 2005 model year, the Grand Cherokee got an independent front suspension system and improvements to the steering, but the ride remained too buoyant and rear-seat space was nothing special. Engines range from a lackluster 3.7-liter V6 to the admirable 5.7-liter V8. The 4.7-liter V8 is punchy, refined, and relatively fuel-efficient. Its horsepower was increased to 305 for 2008, but the engine was dropped for 2010. Fit and finish are so-so and the driving position is too high. As a result, even average-height drivers complained about the lack of headroom. Cargo capacity is small compared to many competing SUVs, but towing capacity is adequate and the controls are simple.

The Grand Cherokee is available in RWD and 4WD versions. Handling has been secure and stable in our tests. The ride is absorbent but on bumpy roads the Grand Cherokee rocks annoyingly from side to side. The 4.0-liter is noisy and slow. The 5.2 V8 was strong but thirsty. It was redesigned for 1999, but other than the addition of a powerful 4.7-liter V8, the improvement was modest. Handling continues to be secure, but ride quality, rear seat room, and cargo space remain subpar.