The Jeep Grand Cherokee occupies an envied spot in the automotive segment. The Grand Cherokee is one of the pioneers that kicked off the SUV craze in the early 1990s. The Grand Cherokee is a capable off-road machine that has, at least two times, saved Chrysler's corporate credibility. The Grand Cherokee keeps the Jeep tradition by remaining practical, luxurious and rugged Sports Utility Vehicle. These three characteristics have made the Grand Cherokee an appealing alternative not only to a saloon, crossover or estate but also to expensive SUV’s offered by other brands. Replacing the outgoing model is an all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee, which was relaunched in Kenya last month.
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| All-New Jeep Grand Cherokee |
Striking looks
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee design build’s on the outgoing model’s cohesive and upscale design. The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee features an upper seven-slot front grille, which is shorter than the one on the outgoing model. The new front headlamps are now slimmer and more attractive. The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee also incorporates a signature front and rear LED lighting. The lower front fascia has been slightly elevated, while the fog lights are raised and are more pronounced. Together, these changes give the front of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee a more substantial appearance, while still preserving the vehicle's ground clearance. The profile of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is dominated by trapezoidal wheel arches that house the standard five-spoke 17-inch aluminium wheels. The rear of the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee features new, larger tail lamps (with signature LED lighting), a larger rear spoiler (to aid in efficient aerodynamics) and a re-sculpted tailgate that offers greater rear visibility.
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| Front now features striking LEDs |
Refined performance
Under the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s bonnet is a selection of power units. There is a new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine and the award winning Pentastar V-6 petrol power plant. The new 3.0-litre EcoDiesel fire plant produces 178kW (240hp) and 570Nm of torque. Power output for the Pentastar V-6 is rated at 209 kW (280hp) and torque at 353 Nm. Fuel consumption for the 3.0-litre EcoDiesel is pegged at 7-litre per 100km in the Grand Cherokee 4x2 and 8.4-litres/100km in the 4x4 model. The Pentastar V-6 petrol engine needs 9-litres of fuel to cover 100km, quite impressive for such a large SUV.
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| Larger and more comfortable seats |
Smooth transmission
All three engines are mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides better fuel economy, quicker acceleration and smoother shifting. Fully electronic, the eight-speed automatic features manual shifting capability using steering-wheel paddle controls. Gear changes are nearly unnoticeable, due to the evenly spaced gear steps between each gear ratio. An Eco Mode, fitted to all engines, contributes to the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s improved fuel economy.
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| Cockpit |
Flamboyant cockpit
Matching the flamboyant exterior is an equally posh interior. Step inside the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee and one quickly notices the revised center console, with the new 5-inch or 8.4-inch touch screens. Controls for radio and climate are found below the screen. The driver shift the 8-speed transmission via a new T-handle shifter, adorned in leather. A new three-spoke steering wheel is wrapped in leather. All-new Jeep Grand Cherokee models incorporate standard paddle shifters, mounted on the back of the steering wheel. A new configurable multiview gauge cluster features a 7-inch Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) screen on every model.
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| New infotainment system |
Seating positions
The premium interior provides seating for up to five occupants. Soft-touch materials are used at key “touch points” throughout the interior. Both front seats are heated and ventilated with eight-way power assistance and four-way lumbar adjustment. The moulded shape of seat improves on occupant comfort. The 12-degrees reclining rear seats, (60/40 split folding), together with the longer wheelbase, enhance comfort for rear passengers.
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| Reshaped rear |
Verdict
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers unprecedented combination of best-in-class fuel economy and driving range. The upgrades and latest advancements make it a top notch luxury SUV. The new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine delivers plenty of power and impressive fuel economy. The Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers plenty of luxury equipment visible on its expensive rivals.
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