2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
-
Jeep Grand Cherokee L
-
Year:2021
-
Make:
-
Model:
-
Price:
-
car segment:
-
size:
-
Purpose:
-
body style:
Jeep’s latest three-row SUV is feature-rich, power-heavy, and rides on the Grand Cherokee’s credibility
Instead of introducing a brand new model in the rather popular three-row SUV market, Jeep played it smart and decided to offer the Grand Cherokee SUV itself with an extra set of seats. Called the Grand Cherokee L, Jeep decided to capitalize on this 27-year old popular moniker instead of building a new vehicle from the ground up that may or may not have been successful.
Jeep has sold over 200,000 examples of the Grand Cherokee annually in the last four years, so there’s no reason why the three-row Grand Cherokee L won’t be a hit. But, is it just about extra seats, or does the Grand Cherokee L bring something new to the table?
Latest Jeep Grand Cherokee news and reviews:
How Do You Make the World’s Fastest Christmas Tree? Strap It on Top of a Hennessey-Tuned Jeep!
Some years ago Cadillac tied a Christmas tree to the roof of a CTS-V Wagon to perform a holiday burnout. Six years later, Hennessey Performance tied a tree to a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk to give us the world’s fastest Christmas tree. Sort of.
If you haven’t seen a Christmas tree run at 181 mph, this is the video you need to watch.
Stock Jeep Trackhawk Takes On The Venom 775 F-150 By Hennessey Performance
Hennessey Performance was out at the Pennzoil proving grounds in Sealy, Texas once again, with their Venom 775 taking on an equally aggressive Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. Let’s look at the numbers on these two machines to see how they stack up against each other, shall we?
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
In September 2021, Jeep debuted the 2022 Grand Cherokee, which happens to be the fifth-gen of the long-running SUV. It marks the introduction of a whole lot of things. The 2022 Grand Cherokee rides on a new platform, comes with exterior and interior upgrades, and features a lot of new off-road tech as well. However, there was something else that stole all the limelight – the 4xe model. Jeep launched the mid-size SUV with a hybrid engine, too, which will be sold as the Grand Cherokee 4xe. This makes it the second 4xe model in the company’s lineup after the Wrangler 4xe.
Jeep Announces Yet Another Recall, This Time Involving Nearly 100,000 Vehicles
It seems that the folks at Jeep (Stellantis) can’t seem to catch a break when it comes to recalls. Just a month ago, the company announced a recall for the Grand Cherokee L due to an issue with its high beams, affecting a little over 7,000 units. This time around, the scale of the recall is much larger, and it involves nearly 100,000 vehicles.
Three High Performance SUVs Light Up The Drag Strip
Sam CarLegion, once again, gives us an epic YouTube video of awesome vehicles drag-racing each other. This time, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk has the uneasy task of defending its turf against the BMW X5 M Competition and Range Rover Sport SVR. All three SUVs are the top versions of their regular counterparts, but who is going to come out on top?
A 2020 Toyota Supra takes on a tuned Jeep Grand Cherokee and a BMW M3
The Wheels YouTube Channel regularly put out videos on some really interesting cars going head to head at the drag strip. They were back at the Bandimere Speedway, in Morrison Colorado, and on this occasion, they had a Toyota Supra take on a tuned Jeep Grand Cherokee and a BMW M3.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Recalled Again - Will the Issues Ever Stop?
Are you experiencing trouble with your Jeep Grand Cherokee L’s high beams? Fret not, because Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) has issued a recall to remedy this issue. This comes just after a month when the same vehicle was also recalled for issues surrounding its rearview camera.
These Cars Made It To This Year’s Wards 10 Best Interiors
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep launched the fifth-gen of one of its most successful models, the Grand Cherokee, last month. The SUV will ride on a new platform that so far underpins just one other vehicle – the recently launched three-row version of the same SUV, the Grand Cherokee L. Apart from this, the 2022 Grand Cherokee also comes with updated exterior, new tech features inside the cabin, new drive systems, and the most important of all, a new hybrid engine that marks the seconds 4xe model in Jeep’s lineup after the Wrangler. The 2022 Grand Cherokee will arrive later this year and the prices for the same will be revealed then.
The Fifth-Gen 2022 Grand Cherokee Looks Fresh, Comes With A Ton Of Tech, And Features A New Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain!
Jeep launched the new Grand Cherokee L earlier this year and it was perceived as nothing but a three-row Grand Cherokee before it was launched. However, it was actually the other way round because the Grand Cherokee L was a preview of what the new 2022 Grand Cherokee will be like.
The new fifth-gen Grand Cherokee will be a shrunken Grand Cherokee L, underpinned on a new platform and following the same design language as its elder sibling. It also comes with new tech features. The highlight of this two-row model, however, is the new 4xe plug-in hybrid trim. The Grand Cherokee will be the second model in Jeep’s lineup – after the Wrangler 4xe – to feature the 4xe plug-in hybrid drivetrain.
Tesla Model X Takes On The Fastest Performance SUVs
The Tesla Model X is, without a doubt, a very quick car. In the Long-range Performance version of the EV, you get dual electric motors, which produce 778 horsepower and 841 pound-feet (1,140 Nm). With this in mind, it will be interesting to see how it fares against the quickest performance SUVs you can buy. Once again, Carwow’s YouTube channel has provided a video that gives us an answer.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L - Driven
At the onset, it seems like the Grand Cherokee L is nothing but a Grand Cherokee with an extra row of seats. Essentially, that’s pretty much true, but, it is much more than just that. The Grand Cherokee L rides on a new platform, comes with a whole lot of new tech features, and is arguably the most off-road capable SUV in the segment. The standard Jeep Grand Cherokee is a big hit, selling over 200,000 examples every year. So, instead of coming up with a completely new model altogether, Jeep decided to build on the Grand Cherokee’s reputation by offering a product with the same ethos, but a lot of distinct differentiation.
Battle of the HEMI V8s: Dodge Durango SRT vs Dodge Durango Hellcat vs Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
Although the performance SUV doesn’t really make any sense whatsoever, it is an entity that continues to be popular and exists. Automakers will keep churning out such vehicles until there is a demand for them. For some people, the performance SUV really is all the car that they’d ever need.
Which one amongst these family haulers from Stellantis is quickest, remains a hot topic, and what better place to find out than at the drag strip. The Wheels YouTube channel put out a video of the popular Dodge Durango Hellcat, take on a fourth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and yet another Dodge Durango, but this time it’s the SRT model.
Jeep Has Finally Revealed the Grand Cherokee 4xe During the Stellantis EV Day
Stellantis showcased future developments for several brands under its corporate belt during its very first EV Day event. A six-minute film was shown by its Jeep brand to demonstrate the automaker’s goals. The company that specializes in off-road vehicles puts a great degree of emphasis on the brand’s 4xe goals, part of which includes the installation of Solar charging stations on trails across the country.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Starts From $37K
Launched under a new-generation design, the new Grand Cherokee features an all-new architecture, the option of three different 4WD systems, an entire suite of safety and security features, and — in the case of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L – three rows of seating. Now, Jeep has released pricing for the biggest of the bunch, the Grand Cherokee L, and it starts from $36,995, not a bad price for a full-size SUV. If you want 4WD, you’ll have to add $2,000 onto the MSRP for a total of $38,995, but these are just entry level prices. Start moving up the trim line, and you’ll see prices start to increase substantially, with the L Laredo Altitude – one step above the entry level Laredo – starting at $40,195 or $42,195 with 4WD. Prices continue to increase incrementally up to the range-topping Cherokee L Summit Reserve that commands a whopping $61,995 with RWD and a V-6 or $65,290 for the V-8 model with 4WD.
Can The Lamborghini Urus Stand Up Against The Likes Of The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat and The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk?
The sight of seeing SUVs rocket down a quarter-mile in a little over 10 seconds is exhilarating. Automakers have realized that people love performance SUVs and it could rake in big numbers for them. Take the Urus for instance. It has been the company’s best-seller since its launch. Even Dodge decided to let all hell break loose by throwing in a supercharged engine under its family SUV’s hood. Throw the Jeep Trackhawk in the mix and you have three of the best performance SUVs that money can buy today.
The folks at Throttle House brought them all together on a drag strip for some straight-line battles. The Urus has obliterated competition mercilessly so far, but can it reign over the mighty powerful FCA....I mean Stellantis twins?
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Instead of introducing a brand new model in the rather popular three-row SUV market, Jeep played it smart and decided to offer the Grand Cherokee SUV itself with an extra set of seats. Called the Grand Cherokee L, Jeep decided to capitalize on this 27-year old popular moniker instead of building a new vehicle from the ground up that may or may not have been successful.
Jeep has sold over 200,000 examples of the Grand Cherokee annually in the last four years, so there’s no reason why the three-row Grand Cherokee L won’t be a hit. But, is it just about extra seats, or does the Grand Cherokee L bring something new to the table?
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L - Bigger Than Ever With Impressive Tech
Jeep has been milking the Grand Cherokee moniker for over 27 years now and it is still one of the top-selling models for the automaker. The SUV is showing its age in the current iteration, but that doesn’t mean the demand is going low. So, instead, Jeep decided to tap into another niche with the same formula. Called the Grand Cherokee L, this SUV rides on an extended platform and has a third row of seats.
Hennessey’s Over-Tuned Jeep Trackhawk Humbles the Chevy C8 Corvette
Hennessey Performance is known to heavily tune the vehicles it takes under its wings. This isn’t a marginal increase as many products to date have been tuned to make around 1,000 horses. As if this wasn’t enough to hype the products, the tuner often hosts drag races with other supercars and SUVs to give us a glimpse and perspective of how fast and agile these vehicles get after a Hennessey tune-up. The latest video shows a tuned Grand Cherokee Trackhawk go up against a near-stock Chevy C8 Corvette. It’s a given which vehicle won, but it’s a fun video nevertheless.
Prepare For Your Mind to Be Blown as You Watch a Jeep Trackhawk Take On a Lamborghini Urus
SUVs used to be all about utility back in the day, but now they’re also available in high-performance trims. The Lamborghini Urus is one of finest examples out there, but companies like Mercedes-Benz and BMW build their own beefed-up haulers. When it comes to American oomph, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is just as exciting. But could it outgun the mighty Urus on the drag strip? Hennessey Performance also wanted to find out and staged a two-round race between them.
You’d Think the Jeep Trackhawk Could Destroy the Stelvio QV in a Drag Race
As much as we would have liked to see the likes of Dodge Durango SRT and Maserati Levante Trofeo join in on this drag race, we’ll have to settle for FCA’s other two high-performance SUVs. Which is not that bad, considering that what you’e about to see is a straight-line skirmish between the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and the Alfa Romeo Stelvio QV.
2020 Ford Explorer Vs 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee
As the best selling SUV in history, the Ford Explorer gained an almost religiously devoted customer base that has kept the legend of the Explorer alive for three decades. However, another SUV, not necessarily placed to fight a direct fight against the Explorer, has a following that’s almost as strong - the Jeep Grand Cherokee. As the new Ford Explorer flashed its body at the NAIAS and attracts customers with its numerous benefits compared to basically any other similar SUV in the segment, I wondered if there’s any incentive to still choose the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee over the new 2020 Ford Explorer. The current Jeep Grand Cherokee has its roots planted in the year 2011 when it came to be. Of course, eight years on the market have left some marks on its skin. It isn’t as advanced, as aerodynamic, nor as convenient as some of its competitors. Yet, despite its aged appearance, the Grand Cherokee is like a really robust SUV geared more towards off-road and toughness than it is towards family values and convenience. That is actually the main character difference between the two.
The biggest physical difference, on the other hand, is the fact that the 2020 Ford Explorer is a three row SUV. The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a two row SUV. Only the next generation of the Grand Cherokee (to be revealed in a year or two), will have two different layouts - it will be offered with two or three rows. Yet, regardless of their main differences, the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2020 Ford Explorer are roughly similarly priced.
Jeep Heads to Geneva With Long Line of Special Edition Models
Jeep will have a big presence at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, spearheaded largely by a handful of special edition models for the Renegade, Compass, Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee. Each of the special edition Jeep models will bring something unique to the table, though a few of them will share the same “S” moniker. All special edition Jeeps feature stylish upgrades that should appeal to a wide range of customers across Europe. All special edition Jeeps will also be available for purchase at some point in the year. Most will arrive in the second quarter of 2019, with the earliest to arrive being the Cherokee Trailhawk, which hits dealerships in April. If you can’t wait that long, the Jeep Compass Night Eagle is already available at Jeep dealerships. Pricing details for all special edition Jeep models are not yet available.
Best Used Off-Road SUVs 2016
SUVs have played a dominant part in the industry. SUVs help you conquer places no other vehicle can. More or less, every segment in the auto industry has seen a make-shift revolution except SUVs. They’re still rugged, butch, and intimidating as ever. In fact, these beautiful monsters age gracefully and are known for their longevity and reliability. See the Landcruiser for example; or even the 4Runner. They’ve been around for decades and are still selling strong. Here is a list of 5 ultimate, off-road SUVs of 2016:
Latest Videos:
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk by Hennessey
Hennessey is at it again with another demented tuning creation, this time for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. Apparently, the Texas-based tuner isn’t satisfied with an SUV that already boasts 707 horsepower. So in keeping with its identity as a creator of tuning programs that border on insanity, Hennessey dropped the mother lode on the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, turning it into a 1,200-horsepower monster that’s capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in a jaw-dropping 2.3 seconds on its way to a quarter-mile time of 9.66 seconds @ 145 mph.
The Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee Fail Miserably in Recent IIHS Crash Testing
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has flagged the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee after both SUVs scored an overall rating of “poor” in the agency’s recent crash test examination. According to results of the passenger-side small overlap front crash tests, both SUVs showed a high risk of injury to a front passenger with potentially fatal ramifications.
FCA Can Now Put The Anton Yelchin Case To Rest After Settling With Late Actor’s Family
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the family of Anton Yelchin have finally settled the lawsuit that was filed by the latter over the unfortunate and untimely death of the Star Trek actor. A report from Reuters reveals that the case was wrapped up in Los Angeles Superior Court last week, putting the rest a legal battle that had been ongoing for the last 20 months.
Columbus Day Special – 5 SUVs And Trucks To Help You Destroy A Civilization
Welp, it’s Columbus Day, and while your grade school textbook probably filled you in on the basics (he sailed across the Atlantic ocean blue in 1492 to “discover” the “New World,” etc.), there were also a few, uhm, less-than-pleasant outcomes to his journeys around the Americas – namely slavery, genocide, widespread disease, and generally tyrannical behavior. So then, in recognition of this, we’ve compiled a list of SUVs and trucks that a modern Columbus might use in exploration and/or the destruction of a civilization.
The criteria are pretty straightforward – it’s gotta be capable, with the sort of off-roader chops that won’t leave the would-be conqueror stranded in a tough spot. It’s also gotta be practical, with enough space in back to haul away all those shiny stolen riches. Ideally, it would also be absurdly destructive to the surrounding environment, just so everyone else knows the score. So yeah, we’re getting a little morbid with this one, but hey, it’s Columbus – what did you expect?
Continue reading for our list of 5 SUVs And Trucks To Help You Destroy A Civilization.
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
The 840-horspower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon stole the show at the 2017 New York Auto Show, but the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk certainly garnered a ton of attention. The highly anticipated an long-rumored Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is everything we hoped for and more, including that 707-horspower 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V-8, beefed-up TorqFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and reinforced full-time 4WD system. The Jeep even gets the Demon’s Torque Reserve system, helping launch five-passenger SUV to 60 mph in an astonishing 3.5 seconds!
Yeah, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk isn’t the most practical vehicle debuting at New York this year, but it’s by far the most practical Hellcat ever produced. Sure, the Charger Hellcat is a usable sedan with little draw-backs, but the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk offers 68.3 cubic feet of cargo volume and a respectable 7,200 pounds of towing capacity. Not to mention, this Jeep will likely do well in wintertime conditions with a set of proper tires, especially since its drive modes include a setting for snow.
Jeep engineers didn’t just shoehorn a Hellcat V-8 under the hood of an ordinary Grand Cherokee, however. The Trackhawk is heavily modified, sharing nearly no common powertrain parts with the standard Grand Cherokees. Even the 6.4-liter V-8-powered Grand Cherokee SRT version comes with less whiz-bang engineering.
Update 08/08/2017: Jeep has announced pricing for the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. It will start at $86,995, including the destination fee. Read more in the Pricing section below.
Continue reading for more in formation on the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
Latest Wallpapers:
TopSpeed’s Top 5 Physics-Defying Performance Crossovers And SUVs
Technology has a very strange habit of turning the impossible (or at the very least, the improbable) into reality. This is especially true in the automotive world, where seemingly contradictory attributes manage to find a happy middle ground with surprising regularity. Case in point – the performance crossover and SUV segment. Once a body style relegated to utility, the modern tall-bodied, cargo-tastic crossover or SUV can now be had with a heavy dose of speed as well, apparently defying the laws of physics with mammoth grip and absurd levels of power. These days, it doesn’t matter if a model is heavy and huge – add the right parts, and it’ll be quick as well.
It’s a combination that seems to be growing in popularity, with a nice assortment of options available across the market. As such, we’ve collected five of the best right here for your perusal. Each offers a decent amount of cargo space, high levels of luxury, and the option for performance as well, all for a price tag around $70,000 (give or take). Our picks look like this – BMW X3 M, Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, Mercedes-AMG GLC63, Porsche Macan Turbo, and Land Rover Range Rover Sport. We’ve got the lowdown on each right here, so read on for more info. And don’t forget to post your favorite in the comments section below!
Continue reading to learn more about TopSpeed’s Top 5 Physics-Defying Performance Crossovers And SUVs.
Six of America’s Baddest Muscle Machines
Cue the band, Mr. Copland; today is Independence Day! It’s the day American celebrates her declaration of independence from Britain amid the bloody Revolutionary War, which lasted from 1775 to 1783. Now some 234 years after the battle’s end, America can celebrate something else, too – the laundry list of high-horsepower vehicles that out-class nearly everything on the world’s roads. These cars, trucks, and SUVs represent the best-of-the-best, the most lust-worthy iron ever to transport humans.
These vehicles hail from American brand rich with history. We’ve included only late-model vehicles that represent the peak of their segment, and each will easily outgun nearly anything from outside our borders. Brands like Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge are not only a cornerstone in the automotive industry, they are icons to the American way of life and our never-ending pursuit of happiness. So stand by for 4,295 horsepower of American Freedom!
Continue reading for TopSpeed’s list.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Is Big And Dumb And Pointless And I Really Want To Drive It
In case you haven’t noticed, let me be the first to tell you – there’s some really weird things going on in the auto industry these days, especially when it comes to performance machines. Some of the fastest cars on the planet are hybrids (Ferrari LaFerrari, Porsche 918 Spyder and McLaren P1), and the all-electrics aren’t that far behind. But probably the weirdest trend of them all is the performance SUV craze. These are two terms that make for strange bedfellows – “performance,” as in going fast, and “SUV,” as in big and tall and heavy and utilitarian. These things shouldn’t go together, but go together they do thanks to cutting-edge engineering magic. Performance SUVs seem to flaunt their resistance to the laws of physics, and the latest entry in this segment (and perhaps one of the most celebrated) is the vaunted Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, a Hellcat-powered off-roader-turned-dragster that promises tire-shredding power and absurd speed potential in a tall-bodied package. It’s big, dumb, and completely pointless. And I really wanna drive it.
I’ll explain. When I first heard the rumors Jeep was fixing to stuff an SUV with Hellcat power, I was perplexed. I found the idea of a 700-horsepower SUV to be absurd and unnatural. If acceleration and speed is what you’re after, why go to the trouble of making it happen in a body style so out of line with that stated goal?
I still feel that way now, and probably always will. For the price of a Trackhawk, you could easily get two vehicles to fill the dual roles of speed-maker and utility hauler, each of which would do their respective duty better than a single Trackhawk ever could.
But that still doesn’t mean I don’t want to drive this thing.
Continue reading to see what I’m talking about.
2017 Jeep Grand One
Not every concept for the 2017 Easter Jeep Safari is a Wrangler. Sure, there’s the
based Trailpass Concept, but this… this is The Grand One. It’s a 1993 Grand Cherokee ZJ that Jeep bought off Craigslist and restored with absolute attention to detail. The 1990s is running strong here, as Jeep designers include an old-school car phone and Nintendo Gameboy. The body paint even has translucent woodgrain paneling along the sides. Jeep’s purpose here is to honor the Grand Cherokee’s 25th anniversary, having debuted in 1992.
This ZJ started life as an ordinary Grand Cherokee with the old 5.2-liter V-8 and four-speed automatic transmission. Those components were restored to proper working order, as was the rest of the Jeep. Modifications include a two-inch suspension lift to help clear the 33-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM2 tires. The new Dana 44 solid axles were also moved apart, with the front axle relocated two inches forward, while the rear was moved back three inches – both thanks to longer control arms. The wheel wells were widened to accommodate the move, while wider fender flairs cover the meatier tires. Locking differentials were also included.
The Jeep is coated in a warm blue hue, complemented by matte black accents on the hood, grille, and bumpers. Custom 18-inch wheels were created to look like the lace-style wheels originally offered on upper trim levels of the first-generation Grand Cherokee. And it wouldn’t be a Jeep build if there weren’t Easter Eggs scattered about. A “Hammer Time” decal becomes visible when the third brake light illuminates, and there’s a sticker on the back window that reads “OGZJ.”
There’s plenty more Jeep has done to this lucky survivor, so keep reading for the full run-down.
Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Grand One.
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Night Eagle
Jeep is launching a new special edition for the Grand Cherokee. Called the Night Eagle, this trim adds gloss-black trim and some bespoke interior pieces to the European-spec Grand Cherokee. The Night Eagle makes its debut appearance at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.
Jeep fans might remember the Night Eagle edition over the last two years. The edition originally launched for the Cherokee and Renegade models. Now with 2017 the Grand Cherokee, along with the Wrangler, get the blacked-out themed package.
Mechanically, the Grand Cherokee remains unchanged. The Euro-spec version comes with two engine choices: the 3.0-liter Multijet II turbodiesel with 250 horsepower and the 286-horsepowe, 3.6-liter Pentastar gasoline V-6. Both engines come standard with the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission Rear-wheel drive is standard, but 4WD is available.
Optional extras can be had on the Night Eagle Jeep, just as on any standard Grand Cherokee. These include Bi-Xenon headlights, a power-operated liftgate, the 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system with Uconnect Live services, the 506-watt Alpine audio system with nine speakers and a subwoofer. Safety options include the Parkview rear backup camera and the Park Sense front and rear sonar sensors.
That doesn’t touch what makes the Night Eagle different, so keep reading for that.
Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee Night Eagle.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk with Hellcat Power to Debut at New York Auto Show
When Dodge blew the doors off the performance car market with the Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT Hellcat models, fanboys everywhere started begging for the 707-pony powerplant to be introduced into just about every model under FCA’s American brands that were worthy of such royalty. Seriously, it’s kind of ridiculous how badly the masses want Hellcat-powered machines. There were even rumors circulating at one time that there would be a Hellcat-powered Chrysler Pacifica – we even made a speculative review and a rendering just in case. That model just isn’t going to happen, of course, but a Hellcat-powered Grand Cherokee was confirmed back in 2016, and we’ve all be desperately waiting for it to make its first appearance. Now, if Motor Authority is to be believed, a “reliable source” has claimed that the Hellcat-powered Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will make its official debut at the New York Auto Show alongside the Challenger SRT Demon.
For now, official specs and details have been kept a complete secret. Some rumors indicate that the Trackhawk could be tuned to deliver even more power than the Challenger SRT Hellcat, but more than likely, it will get the same 6.2-liter V-8 with 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. The Trackhawk will have an all-wheel-drive setup which could, in theory, make it even quicker off the line than the other Hellcat models on the market right now. Then again, to ease strain on the AWD system, Jeep could very well slim down at least first and second gear to help balance things out for reliability reasons.
As far as actual performance goes, the Trackhawk should be one hell of a monster. Considering the brand-new Dodge Durango SRT and its 475-horsepower, Hemi, V-8 can hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and run the quarter-mile in 12 seconds; the Trackhawk should be able to topple that hands down. Expected 60 mph to come in as quickly as four seconds flat and the potential for a quarter mile run to come in the high-ten-second range. Now, that’s one fast SUV right there, don’t you think?
Continue reading for the full story.
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
It’s no secret Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is putting all its eggs in the pickup and SUV categories, leaving behind its prior focus on small and mid-size cars. Part of FCA’s new vision will surely include Jeep’s venerable Grand Cherokee – the two-row, go-anywhere luxury SUV that’s helped define the brand for nearly 25 years. The current Grand Cherokee has been around since the 2011 model year, and it’s high time for some changes. So, will Jeep give the Grand Cherokee a 25th birthday present for the 2018 model year?
We’re betting so.
Jeep has been rather coy with information about the next-generation Grand Cherokee. Of course, there are no official details about the SUV, but Jeep boss Mike Manley has confirmed the high-performance Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will debut in April at the 2017 New York Auto Show. The Trackhawk will be the Hellcat-powered beast that’s rumored to have all-wheel drive while still keeping the supercharged 6.2-liter V-8’s 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque.
But performance models don’t just appear out of thin air. They usually follow the more pedestrian version of the vehicle on which they’re biased. What that means for the Grand Cherokee, is that we can expect the heavily revised (if not all new) 2018 model to debut at the 2017 North American International Auto Show happening January 9 and 10.
With that in mind, we decided to create a rendering of what the next-generation Grand Cherokee might look like. We borrowed inspiration from Jeep’s own design team thanks to the leaked images spotted at a Jeep Dealers’ meeting. That poster not only showed the Grand Cherokee, but also the Grand Wagoneer, Cherokee, Wrangler, and Renegade. All five of these SUVs (except perhaps the Grand Wagoneer) will be huge sources of income for Jeep and FCA in the coming years.
So what’s the 2018 Grand Cherokee all about? Keep reading to find out.
Continue reading for more about the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Races An Aerobatic Plane
In about the most ridiculous marking stunt ever, Jeep U.K. pitted a Grand Cherokee SRT against an aerobatic plane on a racetrack. Yep, you read that correctly: a Jeep, a plane, and a racetrack. Sounds odd, doesn’t it? Well, the stunt is designed to showcase the Grand Cherokee SRT’s track-handling abilities. And thanks to nifty on-screen graphics, the viewer is shown all the important stats like horsepower, 0-to-60 mph times, braking speeds, and lap times.
As a reminder, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT comes packing a 6.4-liter V-8 making 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Hemi is mated to the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, which mates to Jeep’s Selec-Track full-time 4WD system. A lowered ride height, stiffer springs, a fat anti-roll bars give the 5,000-pound SUV surprising handling. Braking is handled by six-piston Brembo calipers grabbing 15-inch vented rotors up front and four-piston calipers mounted on 13.8-inch rotors out back.
All this gives the Grand Cherokee the ability to hit 60 mph in 4.6 seconds on its way through the quarter-mile in 13.2 seconds at 105 mph. It even boasts a top speed of 160 mph.
As for this demonstration, I’m calling Jeep’s bluff. I won’t say which vehicle won the race, but I will say the airplane should have posted a much faster lap time. Watch the video closely and you’ll see the plane make wide turns at various altitudes. Tight maneuvers are what this Silence SA1100 Twister airplane and its 25-year veteran pilot are used to doing.
The video is a fun watch nevertheless, so enter full-screen mode and enjoy this short show.
Continue reading for more information.
Jeep Launches Sales of Wrangler, Grand Cherokee in India
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has official begun selling the U.S.-built Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee to the Indian market. It’s part of FCA’s push to make Jeep a stronger global brand, with a concentration in China and now India. Both products compete with high-end vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, and Audi, while wearing a price tag nearly three times larger than U.S. pricing.
The Wrangler Unlimited, for example, will cost the equivalent of roughly $107,000, while the EcoDiesel-powered Grand Cherokee Limited will cost around $140,000. The range topping Grand Cherokee SRT commands a whopping $167,000.
This comes after Jeep squared away a $280 million partnership with Jaguar Land Rover’s parent company, the India-based Tata, to build an assembly plant in Ranjangaon, India for the construction of the Compass, Renegade, and upcoming compact A-segment Jeep. These smaller, lest costly Jeeps will still bring a premium when they begin selling next year.
With over 1.2 billion people in India, the market represents a huge potential selling ground. It, along with China, will go far in helping Jeep achieve its goal of 2 million annual worldwide sales by the end of 2018. Combined, China and India will account for roughly 500,000 of those sales. The remaining sales will come from Jeep’s traditional markets like the U.S. and Europe.
“The heart of that market is still very, very low-priced, dominated by local manufacturers,” Manley told Automotive News. “Even when global manufacturers break into that marketplace, it is with their lowest-cost platforms. All the signs are that, at some stage, India is going to develop and develop strongly, which is why we need to be there.”
Despite most Indian buyers purchasing low-cost vehicle options, there are the plenty of high-earners wanting luxury vehicles. And while Americans might not consider the Wrangler particularly luxurious, Land Rover Defenders were sold at a high premium on U.S. soul – showing the relationship can flow both ways.
Continue reading for more information.
Parents Of Late Star Trek Star Files Lawsuit Against Fiat Chrysler
The parents of actor Anton Yelchin are planning to take legal action against Fiat Chrysler Automobiles over the death of their 27-year old son on June 19, 2016. According to the Associated Press, an attorney who represents the Yelchin’s parents announced their plans to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the automaker, which they hold responsible for releasing a vehicle – a Jeep Grand Cherokee – that had a confusing shifter design that led to some cars to roll away by themselves.
Yelchin’s family believes that the actor’s Grand Cherokee was one of the affected models and the problem manifested itself at the worst possible time when it rolled down his driveway and pinned him against a brick pillar and security fence. Yelchin died on the scene from traumatic injuries sustained from the horrible episode.
A coroner ruled the actor’s death an accident, but that apparently isn’t stopping his parents from taking FCA to court on the grounds that it made a defective vehicle that caused their son’s death. If it is determined that the confusing gear shifter design played a role in the actor’s untimely passing, it would become the first incident of someone dying because of the defect. That said, a government investigation revealed that there have been 268 documented crashes because of the gear shifters and 68 people have been injured because of it as of June 2016.
For its part, FCA has sent out its condolences to Yelchin’s family, but so far has refused to comment on the planned lawsuit.
Update: During a press conference on August 2, 2016, the lawyer of Yelchin’s parents claims that a recall notice was sent to Yelchin seven days after his untimely death.
Continue after the jump to read the full story.
Are You A Hacker? FCA Will Pay You To Expose Security Risks
Hackers often get a pretty bad rap, as they are often advertised as bad people who take advantage of security vulnerabilities for their own gain, often stealing personal information or other valuable data. But, not all of them are bad. In fact, there are a number of Fortune 500 companies like AT&T and United Airlines pay "ethical hackers" to expose vulnerabilities within their systems. In the automotive world, the most prominent company that takes this approach is Tesla, who pays anywhere between $100 and $10,000 to anyone who finds and reports any vulnerabilities. Now, FCA is offering up a similar program, albeit with some limitations.
It’s been a year since professional hackers publicly exploited ta cellular vulnerability that allowed them to remotely manipulate a 2015 Jeep Cherokee – something that opened everyone’s eyes to the potential danger of having cars that are increasingly becoming smarter and more connected. To help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future, FCA is now offering up between $150 and $1,500 to anyone who notifies them of security flaws through a program on bugcrowd.com. There is a stipulation, though, as the company will only pay for vulnerabilities found in its Uconnect system and owner websites.
Titus Melnyk, FCA’s Senior Manage for Security Architecture, said, “There have been a number of things where people have reached out to us through customer care and other contact methods where they highlighted things that were of interest.” He continued, saying that the bugcrowd program is “just a nice, official way to make it easier for people to contact us and know what we’re really interested in.”
So, there you have it. If you’re technologically inclined or a “hacker” help keep FCA cars safe from security risks and make a little money while you’re doing it.
Continue reading for the full story.
Is FCA Responsible For The Untimely Death Of Star Trek Actor Anton Yelchin?
It was just last April that we learned of a potential issue with the shifter used in the 2012 to 2013 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, and the 2014 to 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The problem with the shifter is that it is spring loaded, so it returns to a centered position after gear selection and according to the NHTSA, the “Monostable shifter is not intuitive and provides poor tactile and visual feedback to the driver, increasing the potential for unintended gear selection.” FCA issued a voluntary recall for some 1.1 million vehicles, and one of the Jeep Grand Cherokees recalled could have been owned by Anton Yelchin – a young actor who was just killed in a roll-away accident involving his 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Preliminary reports from the Los Angeles Police Department claim that Yelchin exited his car outside of his home around 1:10 a.m. Pacific time, at which point the vehicle proceeded to roll backward and crushed him against a brick pillar and a security fence. His injuries were traumatic, and Yelchin died at the scene. He was found by friends who came looking for him when he failed to show up for rehearsal. He was 27 years old and has acted in movies such as Like Crazy and Alpha Dog, as well as recent Star Trek films.
This is an unfortunate occurrence, and it just goes to show how auto manufacturers need to take things a little more seriously when it comes to design and integration of controls. Sure, FCA voluntarily recalled the affected vehicles and sent out a recall notice along with a reprint of instructions for the shifter that can be found in the owner’s manual. Sources indicate that the recall itself would include adding a chime that will go off when the driver’s door is open and the transmission isn’t in park, and a software update that will prevent the vehicle from rolling under different circumstances.
Continue reading for the full story.
FCA’s Jefferson North Plant Rolls Out Six-Millionth Vehicle
The Jefferson North Plant in Detroit has been pumping out Chrysler vehicles since 1992 and has just reached the milestone of six million vehicles made. The now iconic first-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee was the first to roll off the assembly line. Fiat Chrysler is celebrating by showcasing the six-millionth vehicle – a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th anniversary edition.
“Reaching this milestone is a reflection of this plant’s commitment to supporting the continued growth of the Jeep brand around the world and playing a role in the comeback of Detroit,” said Curt Towne, Jefferson North Plant Manager. “Our employees are proud to be part of this unique time in the history of both the Company and the City. They understand that not only are they contributing to the success of FCA U.S., but they are proving that Detroit will always be the Motor City.”
The Grand Cherokee’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 was cranked over around 8:30 p.m. local time as employees of the Jefferson plant watched the completion of the final checks before heading to a customer in Michigan.
The Jefferson plant employs nearly 4,500 people in three million square feet. The plant runs three crews who work two 10-hour shifts that run six days a week. FCA says it takes a vehicle a day and a half to travel the length of the assembly line – from the body shop where panels are welded together to the final checkpoint process. In 2015 alone, the plant produced more than 365,000 vehicles. The Jefferson plant also builds vehicles for export to 135 markets worldwide. These exports comprise roughly 25 percent of its entire volume.
Through its 24-year history, the Jefferson plant has produced mostly Jeep vehicles, including the Jeep Commander from 2005-2010, but also began building the Dodge Durango in December of 2010. The plant also celebrated its five-millionth vehicle back in 2013 when another Jeep Grand Cherokee rolled off the line.
Continue reading for more information
Steering Wheel Shortage Disrupts Jeep Cherokee & Grand Cherokee Production
Production of the 2016 Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee were halted this week due to a shortage of steering wheels. The short-lived ordeal is over, FCA reports, and dealerships should not feel any negative consequences thanks to a 90-day supply average.
Specifically, Cherokee production was halted when afternoon shifts were shortened Tuesday. Thursday morning shifts were canceled altogether at Jeep’s Toledo North Assembly Plant. Similarly, the Grand Cherokee’s production stopped at Jeep’s Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit on Wednesday morning, with production resuming 24 hours later. Production of the Wrangler was unaffected.
The steering wheels are produced in Mexico by Key Safety Systems, which is headquartered in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Despite the delays, Key Safety System is ranked 91 in Automotive News’ top 100 suppliers to North America, giving it some credit for past work.
Thankfully Jeep has 59,951 unsold Cherokees and 58,277 unsold Grand Cherokees in its national inventory, giving the automaker a 92-day and 87-day supply, respectively of the popular SUVs. It’s worth noting a 60-day supply is considered optimal, allowing for a good-sized dealer inventory without an overcrowding issue.
Continue reading for more information
Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk Qualifies For Japan’s Eco-Car Tax Incentive.
Jeep Cherokee Trailhawks might become a more popular sight in Japan. That’s thanks to the SUV’s qualifying for Japan’s Eco-Car tax incentive. The 3.2-liter Pentastar V-6-powered Cherokee Trailhawk meets the fuel-efficiency and emissions-level requirements needed to secure a ¥58,000 consumer tax break.
What’s more, the 2016 Cherokee Trailhawk is the first gasoline-powered, American-made, American-brand passenger vehicle to quality for the tax incentive.
“At Jeep, we don’t sacrifice operating efficiency for capability,” says Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand and Global Lead Executive for International Operations – FCA. “This achievement vindicates our efforts to deliver products that resonate in a highly complex industry climate.”
The 3.2-liter Pentastar V-6 makes 272 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque in the Cherokee, while achieving 10.3-km/L, or 24.2 mpg, despite its off-road chops. Helping it achieve better efficiency is its standard start/stop system, nine-speed automatic transmission, and automatically adaptive performance settings that match driving conditions.
Atop the tax incentive, the Jeep Cherokee was awarded among the 10-best cars in the 2014-2015 Japan Car of the Year Award – also becoming the first American vehicle to be selected. With this one-two punch, the Cherokee Trailhawk will likely be a popular choice for crossover shoppers in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Continue reading for the full story.
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit
The 2016 New York Auto Show brought tons of new vehicles to the market, including several special edition models like the updated Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk. This go-anywhere version of the venerable Grand Cherokee brings added attitude and abilities to the iconic SUV. However, Jeep product planners didn’t’ stop there. They also introduced the Grand Cherokee Summit – a high-end version of the Grand Cherokee that sits atop the model line.
The Summit name isn’t new for Grand Cherokee. In fact, the trim level has been seen on past models since at least the start of the decade. However for 2017, the Grand Cherokee Summit receives the latest front fascia with LED lights, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, and an interior that’s fully wrapped in Laguna leather with the latest gear shifter design for the SUV. It represents the all-out, most luxurious trim available for the hardy off-roader.
Of course, the Summit trim shares its high ranks with the Grand Cherokee SRT and the upcoming Hellcat version rumored to be called the Trackhawk. Nevertheless, the Summit will be the most posh of the bunch.
Specifically, the Summit includes loads of standard features, including a suede headliner, auto-folding power mirrors, headlight washers, and a host of active safety systems. Also standard is Jeep’s Quadra-Drive II 4WD system and the Quadra-Lift air suspension system. Jeep allows the customer to choose the powertrain that’s right for them. This means the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, and 3.0-liter EcoDiesel are all optional.
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit will be available late summer of 2016. Prices have yet to be announced.
Continue reading for the full review
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
The doors of the 2016 New York Auto Show are open, and there are lots of things to look and talk about. Remember the “Trailhawk” concept that Jeep introduced back at the 2012 Easter Jeep Safari? Well, that concept was so widely accepted, Jeep made it a trim level for the 2014 model year of the Jeep Cherokee. The following year, it was brought back as a trim level for the Jeep Renegade. Now, Jeep is bringing the "Trailhawk" name to the 2017 Grand Cherokee, promising it will be the “most capable factory-produced Grand Cherokee ever.”
Mike Manley, Head of the Jeep Brand for FCA Global, said, “Our Cherokee and Renegade Trailhawk models are among our fastest selling and most sought-after models, and we are following that successful formula to provide consumers even more legendary Jeep 4x4 capability for Grand Cherokee – the most awarded SUV ever.”
The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk will be on display at the New York Auto Show until April 3rd, and, according to Jeep, it’s slated to arrive in Jeep showrooms toward the end of the summer, which means you’ll be able to get your hands on one just in time for some fall off-roading. Until then, however, let’s take a look at the new Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and why you’ll probably want to buy one if you’re a Jeep guy.
Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk.
Jeep Caught Testing Hellcat-Powered Grand Cherokee
Only a week or so after Jeep CEO Mike Manley sarcastically confirmed the Hellcat-powered Grand Cherokee at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show to a single journalist, a video has surfaced showing the vehicle under development.
The short and somewhat dull video shows the Grand Cherokee performing a quick acceleration run on the empty track. Supercharger whine is clearly present, resonating the distinctive Hellcat noise that’s different from other supercharged V-8s. Also audible is a short burst of tire chirping, but with the amount of throttle heard in the video, any rear-wheel drive, Hellcat-powered machine would smoke the tires, even with traction control on. This leads us to believe Jeep engineers have indeed built an AWD system capable of withstanding 650 pound-feet of torque. Whether it makes production or not is still unknown.
Of course, there’s no official word from Jeep or FCA, but we suspect the Hellcat-powered Grand Cherokee will soon be ready for production. Manley’s snarky interview revealed the SUV will be on the market before the end of 2017, likely making it a 2018-model-year vehicle. What’s more, according to FCA’s five-year plan published in 2014, the Grand Cherokee is due for a generational change in 2017. That lines up perfectly, making it seem like Jeep will wait to introduce the 707-horsepower street rod until the next-generation Grand Cherokee makes its debut. Perhaps the Hellcat version will bow at the same time.
Jeep is still quite on what it plans to call the Hellcat-powered Grand Cherokee, though all suspension and rumors still point to the TrackHawk name. Either way, these are certainly exciting times in the automotive world.
Continue reading for more information
When asked about the possibility of a Hellcat powered RAM truck, CEO Bob Hegbloom offered up little more than a “No.” He did finish up with a simple statement, “there are other areas of Ram Ram’s business with a bigger opportunity,” and opened the door for much greater things. We may not get a Hellcat Ram, but what about another Chrysler product; specifically the Jeep Grand Cherokee? This is what we think a Jeep Grand Cherokee Hellcat would look like. We also have some solid evidence that it is actually coming.
For starters, the Grand Cherokee is no stranger to high-performance variants with the SRT-8 model, so moving the range up-market should be an easy move. Second, with machines like the Range Rover Sport SVR on the market, Jeep could be looking to join the high-performance action. Of course, the most damning piece of evidence we have is the trademark from FCA for the name “Trackhawk.” If you are familiar with Jeep’s naming schemes, “Trailhawk” is a name used for hardcore off-road models of the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. Now it’s not a stretch to see Jeep use the “Trackhawk” name for an ultra-high-performance variant.
With that in mind we had our trusty in-house rendering artist whip up some great shots of what this new Jeep might look like.
Update 01/14/2016: Jeep CEO Mike Manley confirmed the Grand Cherokee Hellcat at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show. We’ve got him on video making comical remarks to a journalist’s plea for the 707-horsepower supercharged V-8.
Click past the jump to read more about the Jeep SRT Hellcat.
As part of its 75th anniversary, Jeep is releasing special editions of each of its models for 2016, including the Grand Cherokee. A few exterior upgrades, new interior features, and of course, special badges signify the anniversary option package.
“Jeep vehicles have defined the authentic SUV and set the benchmark for off-road capability and freedom since they were first produced in 1941,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand. “Today, Jeep SUVs continue to deliver 4x4 leadership, as well as fuel efficiency, world-class craftsmanship, and premium on-road dynamics.”
Jeep’s history is deeply rooted in WWII, having gotten its start with the U.S. Military requesting a small, go-anywhere transport. The Willis Overland company stepped forward with a design that later became adopted. Both Willis and the Ford Motor Company built the original Willis MB General Purpose vehicle, which would later be nicknamed the Jeep.
After the war, the Jeep took up civilian life, first as rugged farm implements and later as more traditional transportation. Other models sprung forth as the Jeep brand bounced around a handful of owners over the decades. Chrysler, now known as Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, holds the iconic Jeep name, building rugged SUVs and crossovers for a variety of segments. Though none recall the original Willis MB more than the Jeep Wrangler, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of FCA’s most popular SUVs.
Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition.
As part of its 75th anniversary, Jeep is releasing special editions of each of its models for 2016, including the Grand Cherokee. A few exterior upgrades, new interior features, and of course, special badges signify the anniversary option package.
“Jeep vehicles have defined the authentic SUV and set the benchmark for off-road capability and freedom since they were first produced in 1941,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand. “Today, Jeep SUVs continue to deliver 4x4 leadership, as well as fuel efficiency, world-class craftsmanship, and premium on-road dynamics.”
Jeep’s history is deeply rooted in WWII, having gotten its start with the U.S. Military requesting a small, go-anywhere transport. The Willis Overland company stepped forward with a design that later became adopted. Both Willis and the Ford Motor Company built the original Willis MB General Purpose vehicle, which would later be nicknamed the Jeep.
After the war, the Jeep took up civilian life, first as rugged farm implements and later as more traditional transportation. Other models sprung forth as the Jeep brand bounced around a handful of owners over the decades. Chrysler, now known as Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, holds the iconic Jeep name, building rugged SUVs and crossovers for a variety of segments. Though none recall the original Willis MB more than the Jeep Wrangler, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of FCA’s most popular SUVs.
Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary Edition.
The Christmas season is now in full swing and, as many of you can attest, the roads have been pretty jam-packed the past few days. It’s a tricky situation to navigate, and while we are celebrating Christmas today, it’s reasonable to expect that the roads are going to be just as bad over the next few days. Obviously, many of us are in different positions. Some have yet to complete their holiday shopping. Some probably have yet to start. There are also those who celebrated Christmas away from home and are planning to go back to their own addresses. Then there’s the always unpredictable mood of Mother Nature.
All these things could add up to a debilitating late holiday rush. So if any of you find yourselves in the aforementioned positions, be advised that we’ve picked out some cars that would work best in certain conditions.
Not everyone will be fortunate enough to have the specific kind of car they’re going to need should, for example, they get stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic. But in the event that they do find themselves with the right car, at the right place, and at the right time, they should be able to navigate cleanly around the expected rush of the coming days.
These are the ideal cars you might need for certain situations. Good luck on your travels and happy holidays to all of you!
Continue after the jump to read the full story.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT might not be creating the biggest headlines from FCA’s SRT department, but the 475-horsepower, AWD SUV is no doubt worthy of conversation. That’s even more true with the Grand Cherokee SRT’s new special edition trim package called “Night.” Simple yet effective, it seems.
Though much of the Jeep’s underpinnings remain unchanged, this appearance package does add several new features and eye-catching upgrades. Starting up top, the Grand Cherokee SRT Night comes with a blacked-out roof, rear spoiler, and matching B- and C-pillars. The front and rear Jeep badges also get the treatment. Those upgrades match the already-black grille and lower fascias front and rear.
On the more useful side, the wheels are new, lightweight units that Jeep calls “5Ten” due to the split, five-spoke design. Measuring 20-inches in diameter, the Satin Black wheels match the other blacked-out exterior cues. Jeep also gloats the wheels help show off the red calipers and slotted rotors that come standard from Brembo.
Not too much has changed within the Grand Cherokee’s cabin. The black Laguna Leather seats come with silver accent stitching and light black chrome bezels for an extra pop. The 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system still presides over the center dashboard, while the driver gets his own configurable TFT display in the gauge cluster.
Along with the 475 horses, the Grand Cherokee SRT’s 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 turns out 470 pound-feet of torque that helps the full-size SUV hit 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds and through the quarter-mile in the mid-13-second range. Top speed is listed at 160 mph.
Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Night.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT might not be creating the biggest headlines from FCA’s SRT department, but the 475-horsepower, AWD SUV is no doubt worthy of conversation. That’s even more true with the Grand Cherokee SRT’s new special edition trim package called “Night.” Simple yet effective, it seems.
Though much of the Jeep’s underpinnings remain unchanged, this appearance package does add several new features and eye-catching upgrades. Starting up top, the Grand Cherokee SRT Night comes with a blacked-out roof, rear spoiler, and matching B- and C-pillars. The front and rear Jeep badges also get the treatment. Those upgrades match the already-black grille and lower fascias front and rear.
On the more useful side, the wheels are new, lightweight units that Jeep calls “5Ten” due to the split, five-spoke design. Measuring 20-inches in diameter, the Satin Black wheels match the other blacked-out exterior cues. Jeep also gloats the wheels help show off the red calipers and slotted rotors that come standard from Brembo.
Not too much has changed within the Grand Cherokee’s cabin. The black Laguna Leather seats come with silver accent stitching and light black chrome bezels for an extra pop. The 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system still presides over the center dashboard, while the driver gets his own configurable TFT display in the gauge cluster.
Along with the 475 horses, the Grand Cherokee SRT’s 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 turns out 470 pound-feet of torque that helps the full-size SUV hit 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds and through the quarter-mile in the mid-13-second range. Top speed is listed at 160 mph.
Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Night.
Fiat Chrysler is in hot water again over vehicle complaints, this time over late-model Jeep Grand Cherokees rolling away after being placed in park. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is now opening a preliminary investigation into some 408,000 Grand Cherokees, thanks to 14 complaints, including five reports of crashes and three reports of injuries.
The delays mentioned by FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne regarding the Jeep Grand Cherokee have been rehashed, this time by Jeep’s CEO Mike Manley. Manley says the redesigned Grand Cherokee will be delayed until late 2018 or possibly 2019 before it hits showrooms.
Jeep’s original plan detailed in its five year forecast released in 2014 showed the new Grand Cherokee arriving in 2017. The delays, Marchionne says, are so Jeep engineers can “take a complete re-look” at the vehicle’s basic architecture.
That architecture is likely getting revamped in order to make it more configurable, allowing for easier sharing between multiple vehicles, namely the upcoming 2017 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Jeep’s future, high-end luxury competitor to the Land Rover Range Rover. The two-row Grand Cherokee and three-row Grand Wagoneer’s shared platform would certainly need flexibility in its design in order to accommodate the differences in sizes.
The “complete re-look” will furthermore hamper Jeep’s ability to delver the Grand Wagoneer anytime soon, as well. Initially slotted for a 2018 debut, the three-row Jeep may not come until the end of the decade.
Despite the setbacks, the Grand Cherokee is enjoying tremendous success within the Jeep brand. The automaker sold 183,786 examples of the SUV in 2014 – a nearly 10,000-unit increase over sales in 2013. In fact, sales of the Grand Cherokee have been on the rise since the current model debuted for 2011.
In order to keep that momentum, Manley says the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee will undergo a “mild refresh” before its next full redesign. Expect that refresh to consist of minor exterior tweaks and a few interior cosmetic changes, while the powertrain and chassis continue unaltered.
Continue reading for the full story.
It appears the rumors have been confirmed – Jeep will produce the Hellcat-powered 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. The news comes as an unnamed source confirmed several details to Motor Authority. That means the Grand Cherokee will be the third recipient of FCA’s mighty 707-horsepower Hemi V-8.
The Trackhawk build is called Project K within FCA walls, and includes a few additional go-fast bits to make the Jeep worthy of the Hellcat badge. Leading the pack is the inclusion of AWD and the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment.
Performance numbers are said to be very competitive with the other Hellcats, thanks in large part to that all-wheel drive. The inside source says 0-to-60 mph times will fall under three seconds and the top speed with be a blistering 200 mph. Not too shabby for an SUV.
Sadly, there are quibbles about Jeep having to restrict torque output from the supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi to keep the AWD system from exploding. Though unconfirmed, the rumor could prove true. Nevertheless, don’t expect anything less than 600 pound-feet if the cutback does indeed happen.
What’s more, the source says the current 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT will get a name change and a nice boost in power to accompany the Trackhawk introduction. Rumor has it the new SRT’s 6.4-liter Hemi will kick out 490 horsepower, up from 470 the horsepower of the current model.
Continue reading for the full story.
Jeep may have another safety issue on its hands after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received nine complaints of 2014-model-year Jeep Grand Cherokees suddenly braking with no warning and with no hazards in front of them. Causing this issue is the Grand Cherokee’s adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking.
In an effort to explore the issue, the NHTSA has posted notice of a probe, which covers roughly 20,000 Grand Cherokees from the 2014 model year. Thankfully, there are no reported injuries or wrecks associated with the issue.
According to a report by the Associated Press, several of the nine complaints logged with the NHTSA say the emergency braking system malfunctions multiple times during a drive.
One complaint reads, "I was driving on the freeway going 65 mph with no cars around me or in sight. All of the sudden the car dashboard said Brake! And the car applied the ABS brakes and abruptly slowed the car down to 40 mph! I was so scared at that point."
Other complaints state that dealerships have not been able to duplicate or fix the problem. One goes on to say the dealer found a whopping 57 diagnostic trouble codes in a particular Grand Cherokee’s computer.
FCA spokesman Eric Mayne told the AP that Grand Cherokee owners who have experienced the problem should take their vehicle to the dealership for evaluation. Mayne also said owners can opt to completely deactivate the automatic braking system should the desire.
Continue reading for the full story.
It seems FCA may be already running behind schedule on its comprehensive five-year plan announced just last year. Reports from the automaker’s suppliers say several models are affected by the delays, which are said to range from a few months to more than a year.
One of the most effected vehicles is Jeep’s upcoming Grand Wagoneer, Jeep’s three-row luxury competitor aimed at the Range Rover. It’s experiencing delays due to its similarity to the upcoming, all-new Grand Cherokee. Initially, the new Grand Cherokee was scheduled for the 2017 model year, but as Reuters reports, engineers are still working on the SUV’s platform. That makes since as the current Grand Cherokee rides on a chassis shared with the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class from the ill-fated Daimler-Chrysler partnership.
Jeep may be working on a more modular design that would easily work for multiple vehicles with various sizes. Traditionally the Grand Cherokee has offered seating for both five and seven passengers, with the third row seats being optional. The Grand Wagoneer will necessitate a longer body, giving Suburban-like room to all aboard.
Jeep is also reportedly pushing back the introduction of the next Wrangler, though only by a few months. Initial plans had the open-top Jeep hitting showrooms early in the second quarter of 2017, but it looks to be July 2017 before that happens.
Also experiencing delays is the next-generation Ram 1500, though to an even lesser degree than the Wrangler. Reuters says the Ram will be pushed from its mid-2017 launch to one in November.
Continue reading for more information