An all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV is on its way, launching this model’s fifth generation. The Grand Cherokee is a midsize, two-row utility vehicle with room for five. It is one of the latest Jeep models released in what’s proven to be a banner year for this four-wheel-drive dominant brand.
The new Grand Cherokee follows the Grand Cherokee L to the market as well as the all-new Jeep Wagoneer and Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Together, the “quad” supplies this marque with off-road capable vehicles with ample room for five to eight, depending on the model. With the new Grand Cherokee in the mix, Jeep solidifies its leadership in a competitive market.
Introducing the 2022 Grand Cherokee
Jeep debuted the all-new Grand Cherokee on Facebook Live this morning. The 15-minute preview covered all the salient points about the new model, including the Grand Cherokee 4xe variant that brings electrification to the product line. Jeep says the new model will go on sale late this year in the U.S. and 2022 in overseas markets. Those markets include Chile, Australia, Japan, and Korea.
The new Grand Cherokee moves to an all-new architecture it shares with the Grand Cherokee L. The latter represents an extended wheelbase version of the former. Notably, Jeep’s ascendancy coincides with the brand’s 80th anniversary this year.
Among the highlights of the latest model are the following:
Redesigned Exterior
Among the exterior changes are a wider and larger seven-slat grille, a lowered, tapered roof, and a more muscular hood. Other changes include new active grille shutters, front wheel spats, air curtains, a hood aero flick, and new rear vertical-pillar spoilers.
For the first time, a gloss black roof is available on the Overland trim. Moreover, it is standard with the Trailhawk, Summit, and Summit Reserve.
All-New Interior
Just as the exterior is new, the interior gets customized changes. Jeep claims the seating architecture is improved, particularly for the front passengers. This includes a length adjustable cushion for the front seats and new 16-way power-adjustable seats with lumbar support. Massaging capabilities are now added to the top-trim models.
Jeep also reworked the center console to update switches as well to supply additional storage space. That space is now large enough to accommodate a pair of wireless devices and includes a wireless charger.
Expanded Powertrains
Returning with the new model are two gas engines. These are the 3.6-liter V6 and the 5.7-liter V8. The V6 makes 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while the V8 bangs out 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Both engines work with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
New this year is a 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It is exclusive to the 4xe model and works in tandem with an electric motor. Under peak power or full throttle, this combination delivers 470 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque. Again, power routes to all four wheels utilizing an 8-speed automatic transmission. Jeep estimates the new 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicle offers 25 miles of all-electric range.
Upgraded Capabilities
Jeep put the 4xe model through the paces, including on the legendary Rubicon Trail. Operating in full-electric mode, the 4xe completed its challenge.
New for 2022 is a sway-bar disconnect feature that works with a touch of a switch inside the cabin. When disconnected, this class-exclusive feature supplies improved articulation and traction while traversing rough terrain and when climbing rocks. As before, Jeep offers customers a choice of three four-by-four systems, depending on the trim.
Expanded Technologies; Latest Safety Features
Beginning this year, the Grand Cherokee gains Stellantis’ Uconnect 5 interface, the most advanced version of this heralded system. It includes an available front passenger screen. Also new for 2022 is Active Driving Assist and the latest rear-entertainment system with improved high definition.
On the safety front, Jeep includes the Active Driving Assist technology with hands-on automated driving. Notably, it serves as the precursor to greater autonomous capabilities the brand has planned. Further, a 360-degree surround-view and night camera system is also new.
Expanded Interior Capacity
Coming in nearly the same size as the most recent Grand Cherokee, the new model features 144.6 cubic feet of total interior passenger volume. This translates into an additional 4.1 cubic feet of passenger space and an extra 1.4 cubic feet of standard cargo space. Jeep claims the Grand Cherokee holds a set of golf clubs in the cargo compartment when placed transversely.
Pushing Upmarket
Just as it has done with the Grand Cherokee L followed by the Wagoneer duo, Jeep is taking the Grand Cherokee upmarket, particularly in the Summit Reserve trim. This model features a high-end Palermo leather interior as well as a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system with 950-watt output.
2022 Grand Cherokee Summation
We have driven the Grand Cherokee L and expect the Grand Cherokee to deliver similar results. That said, we will reserve our full comments until once we complete our behind-the-wheel evaluation.
The 2022 Grand Cherokee effectively leads the two-row midsize sport-utility market. Among its competitors are the Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Murano, Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, and the Honda Passport. Importantly, not one competitor, though, claims to match Jeep’s legendary off-road capabilities.
Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources including NAPA, CarsDirect, CapitalOne, and Driven Autos.
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