Jeep Grand Cherokee

The existing model sees an increase in the length of wheelbase and rear overhang, translating into a more spacious cabin. In comparison to rivals, the styling of this five-seat American model seems a bit dated. However, Jeep has packed it to the gill with comfort and connectivity features that include dual-zone climate control, push-button start, remote proximity keyless entry, power windows, heated front seats, rain sensitive windshield wipers and rear window defroster as standard. Features such as power boot lid release, heated second-row seats, heated steering wheel with tilt & telescopic function are absent in the base variants. The seats in front can be adjusted electrically and rear seats come with the 60:40 split-folding function. Jeep also offers a variety of personalisation options on the SUV at additional cost, which customers can choose as per their taste. As for connectivity options, the Uconnect 7.0-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes with the base trims, however, the higher variants benefit from a larger 8.4-inch Uconnect unit with additional satellite navigation and Bluetooth compatibility for navigation. A Harman Kardon audio system with 19 speakers is reserved only for Summit and Trackhawk. While media hub including 2USB ports, 1 AUX along with steering mounted audio controls, 12V power outlets at both ends are available across the line-up. 

Jeep’s stalwart SUV boasts large dimensions and aggressive styling, sporting most of the signature elements common in other models in the company’s line-up. The large-sized SUV measures 4,828 mm in length, 1,943 mm in width and stands 1,802 mm tall. Moving to the side, the 18-inch alloys in the base trims and chunky 20-inchers in higher variants fit in well under the broad wheel arches. While the 20-inch forged units are kept for the SRT and SRT Trackhawk. Styling in front is marked by HID headlamps in adaptive/bi-xenon options; these units are offered from Summit onwards. The LED fog lamps are common across variants, save for SRT Trackhawk, whereas LED daytime running lamps are standard. Adding a bit of sporty flair are the roof rails atop that are missing in the SRT grades, while the body cladding is common in all variants. Some other prominent bits, such as dual-pane panoramic sunroof, deep tint sunroof glass, acoustic rear windshield, etc. are available with specific grades. Jeep offers Grand Cherokee in 14 colour schemes in metallic, pearl, tri-coat and clear coat finishes, which can be availed based on the variant. 

 Fitted with an air suspension set-up, it ensures a smooth ride quality, absorbing most of the adulations. The SUV remains composed on highways and in the city even at high speeds. However, the steering rattles a tad over bumps and corners. The cabin insulation prevents noise from coming inside, though some whistling sound seeps in from the wing mirrors. 

The Jeep Grand Cherokee specifications include four engines-a 3.6-litre V6 petrol, 3.0-litre V6 diesel, 6.4-litre V8 petrol and 6.2-litre petrol units. In terms of power, the 3.6L unit makes 290 PS with 347 Nm and the 3.0L engine puts out 250 PS against 570 Nm torque. The high capacity 6.4L belts out 468 PS/624 Nm, whereas the 6.2L unit is good for 709 PS/868 Nm. Fuel consumption (combined) for 3.6 V6 engine is 10 kmpl and 13.3 kmpl for the 3.0-litre unit. On the other hand, the 6.4-litre naturally-aspirated and 6.2-litre supercharged engines are rated at 7.14 and 5.95 kmpl respectively. The fastest engine among all is the 6.2-litre motor with a claimed acceleration time of 3.7 seconds and 289 kmph of top speed. 

The stopping power is derived by ventilated disc brakes at both the ends. The safety suite packs a long list of features such as parkview reverse parking camera, park sense parking sensors at both ends, 7 airbags, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, active head restraints, traction control, ready alert braking, electronic stability control, enhanced accident response system, trailer sway control, etc. Other standard safety tech includes ISOFIX, selectable steering modes and capless power locking fuel filler door. Prominent safety features like forward collision warning plus, lane departure warning plus, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, parallel & perpendicular park assist, advanced brake assist and adaptive cruise control are missing in the base Laredo trims. 

With most of the right boxes ticked, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the best options in the segment. It brims with comfort and connectivity features; besides the standard safety kit is comprehensive. However, the lack of third-row pinches, as it could easily fit in an additional row, given its dimensions.