Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 redesigned Grand Cherokee is slightly larger than the previous version. Its core powertrains carry over: 3.6-liter V6 and 5.7-liter V8. The new 4xe plug-in hybrid version uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, coupled with an electric drive, and provides 25 miles of electric-only range. All engines are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Center stage is a Uconnect 5 infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There is an optional screen for the front passenger, and available rear-seat entertainment. AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, BSW, RCTW, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control are all standard.

The 2014 freshening improved the Grand Cherokee's road-test score considerably. Better controls, improved fit and finish and a new eight-speed automatic transmission are among the highlights. The mid-range Limited model is a good choice, as it comes with a back-up camera and a power liftgate, along with heat for the leather seats and steering wheel. As for engine choice, we'd get the 3.6-liter V6. If towing is an issue, get the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel, with its added fuel efficiency and torque. Safety features like antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control and stability control are all standard. Optional driver aids include a rear backup sensing system and camera, blind spot warning, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, rear cross traffic warning and collision avoidance systems.

The Grand Cherokee is available in RWD and 4WD versions. Handling has been secure and stable in our tests. The ride is absorbent but on bumpy roads the Grand Cherokee rocks annoyingly from side to side. The 4.0-liter is noisy and slow. The 5.2 V8 was strong but thirsty. It was redesigned for 1999, but other than the addition of a powerful 4.7-liter V8, the improvement was modest. Handling continues to be secure, but ride quality, rear seat room, and cargo space remain subpar.