Driving is like playing the lottery: Anything is possible with the Jeep Grand Cherokee

What began in 1992 with its stunning debut at the Detroit show is now experienced by the fifth generation: the Grand Cherokee, the top model of Jeep’s flagship SUV, comes with new engineering and bodywork, has been refined in terms of design and technology and is now electrified as well.

With the Grand Cherokee 4xe, the Americans (along with Italian relatives) rounded out the add-on model range that already includes the Renegade, Compass and Wrangler.

Jeep Grand Cherokee: A new family SUV with off-road capabilities

For a family SUV with off-road advantages, there are now enhanced capabilities such as the Quadra Lift, air suspension with semi-active electronic damping for more ground clearance (up to 278mm) and a ride height of 610mm. On the Trailhawk version, an electrically disconnected anti-roll bar is used at the front for the first time, providing more traction on rocks and in challenging terrain. Quadra-Trac II and Quadra Drive II all-wheel drive systems with electronic rear differential form the basis for excellent off-road characteristics. The Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow and Mud/Sand driving modes can be selected via Selec Terrain.

The most important novelty: the Grand Cherokee as a plug-in hybrid car

However, the most important innovation is the drive system with 380 hp and 645 Nm of torque. The 2-liter turbocharged petrol engine with direct injection and electric motor, which is fed by a 17.3 kWh battery, are combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Up to 48 electrical kilometers can be covered, in the city up to 51. High-voltage electronics are of course airtight. The total curb weight of the plug-in hybrid is 2.3 tons.

The UConnect infotainment system takes care of a 10.1-inch screen and a 10.25-inch diagonal display with over-the-air updates. A passenger screen and a head-up display are also available. The list of safety features is complete, it should include 110 details (we didn’t count) – anyway, level two is independently possible, 360-degree all-round vision and a night camera helps off-road. Four configurations are now available: Limited (from €79,800), Trailhawk (86,800), Overland (88,800) and Summit Reserve (99,500).

New introduction

Jeep Grand Cherokee
Full-size Jeep with plug-in hybrid technology, 380 hp, system output for up to 51 kilometers of electric range, from €79,800.

What does he like:
Feeling safe in the comfortable cab and in all driving conditions.

What I don’t like:
The search for negatives was unsuccessful.

What surprises:
Reasonably priced compared to the competition.

Perfect for:
When off-road skills are really needed.