With more than 7 million in global sales, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been one of the most iconic SUVs in the world for a long time. In fact, around half a decade ago when Jeep decided to enter the Indian market, it began its innings with the Grand Cherokee along with another popular SUV, the Wrangler. Now the Grand Cherokee has re-launched in India in an all-new fifth generation, which is built on a brand-new architecture. For the first time, the car will be assembled in India and has been launched at an introductory price of Rs 77.5 lakh (ex–showroom). Jeep says the flagship is available through select dealerships, with deliveries starting by the end of the month.
Design
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee’s most identifiable feature is its face, with the traditional seven-slot grille and the long-range radar. It also gets a lowered roof and beltline, along with the wide window glass, which, according to Jeep, aid in a more aerodynamic performance while also ensuring generous cabin space. The SUV also gets an elongated, level-set hood, which enhances its road presence. Apart from this, the new Grand Cherokee also gets 20-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, LED tail lamps, LED reflector headlights and LED fog lamps.
Interiors
The cabin of the new Grand Cherokee has been updated with more features and new-age tech. Jeep says that the SUV boasts the maximum number of technological features in the history of the Grand Cherokee nameplate. Apart from a 10.1-inch touch screen system, the cabin gets two 10.25-inch digital instrument panel display. It also gets a segment-exclusive front passenger screen that offers co-pilot assistance with navigation, a surround-view camera, and visual entertainment. Some other features include a 10-inch head-up display, wireless charging, and 8-way adjustable front seats that offer heating and ventilation. The centre console layout now has updated switches, more storage space in the front bin that can hold two wireless devices. All in all, the SUV comes with 33 connected features, which includes remote vehicle management, navigation, connected traffic and travel, and automatic crash and breakdown detection.
Engine
The 5th generation Grand Cherokee is powered by a 2.0-litre I-4 twin-scroll turbocharged Petrol engine that makes 265 bhp and 400 Nm of torque at 3000 rpm. The engine is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The SUV gets the new virtual ball-joint front and multi-link rear suspension, which, according to Jeep, offers superior ride and handling while on the move. Jeep’s renowned 4×4 Quadra-Trac system and Selec-Terraintraction management system as expected is present on the SUV. It automatically switches to four-wheel drive mode whenever the system detects the need. The system includes an active transfer case that transfers torque to the wheel with the most grip to enhance traction. The SUV offers a ground clearance of 215 mm and 533 mm of water fording. With these features, the off-road capability of the SUV will rarely be in doubt.
Safety
The new Jeep Cherokee gets more than 110 advanced safety and security features, including Active Driving Assistance System (ADAS), 360-degree surround view, drowsy driver detection, eight airbags, and occupant detection for all five passengers. Jeep says 73% of the body is made from high-strength and advanced high-strength steel. ADAS features include full-speed forward collision warning, pedestrian emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, blind spot and cross path detection, passive pedestrian protection, drowsy driver detection, an active lane management system, and an intersection collision assist system. Some other safety features being offered on the SUV are rear cross-path detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
The author is a senior editor at carandbike.com
