The redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee adds new a new plug-in hybrid model and loads up on technology and off-road performance.
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Ever since driving through the Detroit convention center’s front window, in January of 1992, for its North American International Auto Show debut, the Jeep Grand Cherokee was designed to impress. Now, its fifth generation is back to once again shatter expectations. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is loaded with new technology, more luxury and even a new plug-in hybrid 4xe model. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee also includes an even more off-road capable Trailhawk version. The Trailhawk 4xe version drove the rugged California Rubicon Trail under its all-electric power.
“The Jeep Grand Cherokee is our global flagship and will be leading the Jeep brand into a new era of premium refinement, innovative technology, advanced 4x4 capability and electrification," said Christian Meunier, Jeep Brand Chief Executive Officer. “With a perfect balance of on-road dynamics, 4x4 capability and 4xe performance, the all-new 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the most technologically advanced, luxurious and 4x4-capable Grand Cherokee ever.”
Watch the video unveiling.
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep’s primary motivation is maintaining its reputation as the off-road leader. The redesigned 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee claims that it has “unrivaled capability” because it offers three different 4x4 systems - Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II. All three systems are equipped with an active transfer case to improve traction by moving torque to work with the wheel with the most grip. The Grand Cherokee also has a Jeep Quadra-Lift air suspension that gives it class-leading 11.3 inches of ground clearance and 24 inches of water fording. New class-exclusive sway-bar disconnect allows for improved articulation and traction over rocks and rough terrain.
New for the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 is front-axle disconnect. If the vehicle senses that road conditions do not require all-wheel drive, the front-axle disconnect automatically places the Grand Cherokee in two-wheel drive, reducing drag on the driveline and improving fuel economy. Four-wheel drive automatically re-engages when the vehicle senses it is needed.
“Customers have come to depend on and enjoy their Grand Cherokee for four generations,” said Jim Morrison, Vice President – Jeep Brand North America. “We have taken their input into making the most-awarded SUV of all time even better for the fifth generation.”
Exterior Appearance
The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee appears sleeker because of a longer, level set hood. It has a wider seven-slot grille and new fascia to hide all of the technology built into the front of the vehicle, like radar and cameras.
Interior Appearance
There are huge changes to the interior of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is getting much more luxurious with the use of finer leathers and other materials. It is also where the technology upgrades are most noticeable. The new Grand Cherokee has is equipped with Uconnect 5 and a 10.1-inch screen. Uconnect 5 is five-times-faster and can receive updates over-the-air.
The front passenger has an exclusive 10.25-inch display. The passenger can even use his screen to monitor navigation and assist the driver. There are also 10.1-inch rear seat entertainment displays with built-in Amazon Fire TV.
There is also more interior room for passengers and cargo. The 2022 Grand Cherokee has 144.6 cu. ft. of total interior passenger volume, which is 4 cubic feet more than the last Grand Cherokee. It has 37.7 cu. ft. of cargo space, which is up 1.4 cubic feet.
The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers more safety technology. It has more than 110 advanced safety and security features, including Active Driving Assist with hands-on automated driving, plus 360-degree surround view and night vision cameras.
More Powertrains
The big talk for this debut was all about the new plug-in hybrid model, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. The 4xe version is estimated to get 25 miles of all-electric range, 57 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) and a combined driving range of more than 440 miles. It is a fully capable off-roader and even comes in a Trailhawk. For all the details on the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, please see my report The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe Will be Available as a Trailhawk: Fully Off-Road Capable.
The standard gasoline engine for the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the all-aluminum 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, rated at 293 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque.Fuel-saving engine start-stop (ESS) technology is standard on the Pentastar V-6. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is rated for a towing capacity of up to 6,200 pounds and a class-leading driving range of more than 500 miles.
Buyers who want more power can opt for the award-winning 5.7-liter V-8, rated at 357 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. The 5.7-liter V-8 has a class-leading towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds.
Available Model Lineup
The new Grand Cherokee lineup consists of Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Trailhawk, Summit and Summit Reserve trims. The Trailhawk is the most off-road capable, including class-leading traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation and increased water fording capability of up to 24 inches. The Summit Reserve is the most luxurious with all premium interior leather and other high-end materials.
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee will arrive in Jeep dealerships in North America in the fourth quarter of 2021. The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is scheduled to arrive in North America early in 2022 and in global markets later that year. The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is built at the new Detroit Assembly Complex – Mack Plant.
Follow Mary Conway at @maryconwaymedia and send her car news tips for future stories.
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