The V6 version of the Grand Cherokee reviewed
here, which placed 18th, was praised for its good ride and handling
for truck-based SUV and reasonable pricing, but criticized for its interior
construction and space and the engine’s power and refinement. And while the
4.7-liter V8 in this version is far from perfect (the higher-end 5.7-liter V8
gets closer, but was too expensive to be included in this group), it
represents a great improvement over the 3.7-liter V6 in those areas without
enacting a great gas mileage penalty. However, that V8 is a pricey option,
which costs the Grand Cherokee its price advantage. Without that, the Grand
Cherokee’s uncorrected flaws become even more apparent, and it still does not
stand out in any way.
The Grand Cherokee has a comfortable ride,
though it can suffer from some highway-speed float. Handling is also
impressive for a truck-based SUV, though body roll could still be
better-controlled. The steering is accurate enough, but somewhat vague and
slow to respond. The 4.7-liter V8 is a definite improvement over the standard
V6, but its acceleration isn’t particularly impressive either, simply closer
to acceptable. This engine is smoother and quieter than the V6 at least
(though it still gets too loud under hard acceleration) and wind and road
noise are adequately suppressed.
Inside, the large, high front seats are
reasonably well-shaped and comfortable, though there is a noticeable lack of
headroom. The low, poorly-shaped rear seat lacks leg space and even foot space
beneath the front seats. There is no room for a third row. Interior quality is
unexceptional; most materials are of adequate quality, though some trim pieces
do not fit together well. The instruments are, for the most part, logically
placed, though could have larger, better-labeled buttons. The small gauges
could use more contrast as well. Drivers sit comfortably, but thick roof
pillars inhibit visibility in all directions. Entry/exit is fairly easy to the
front, aided by a reasonably low ride height. It is more complicated in the
rear however, thanks to a narrow footwell and small door openings. The high
cargo floor limits space and complicates the loading and unloading of large
items.
The Grand Cherokee did well in NHTSA crash
testing, earning the maximum five stars for both the driver and for the front
passenger in the frontal crash test, as well as five for both the driver and
for the rear passenger in the side crash test. NHTSA estimates a 19% chance of
rollover in a single-vehicle accident, good for a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
The IIHS hasn’t crash tested a Grand Cherokee, but rated its head restraints
Poor.
The Grand Cherokee reviewed here came in at
$29,915, some $600 less than the V6 version reviewed. But the difference in
equipment at those prices is pronounced, as the V6 version came with an
expensive and feature-laden options package that was not included here. This
Grand Cherokee has cloth seats instead of heated leather, no sunroof, and no
UConnect system. That isn’t to say that this vehicle is underequipped, it
still includes standard traction and stability control, and such options as a
6-disc CD changer, automatic headlights, satellite radio, and curtain-style
head-protecting side airbags. Torso-protecting side airbags are unavailable
however, and some niceties equipped on many competitors here like a
reverse-sensing system are available only on higher-end versions.
Overall, the Grand Cherokee
with the 4.7-liter V8 is much better than that with the standard 3.7-liter V6.
However, its best traits are still only good but not great, and the interior
is cramped. Even with this V8, it remains an unremarkable vehicle overall, and
loses its price advantage. There are better choices.
