KUALA LUMPUR: After months of spy shots and speculation, Jeep’s bread and butter SUV model, the Grand Cherokee has just received a makeover. The update rolled out a new version of the SUV - a three-row model, named ‘Grand Cherokee L’ by the automaker. "Don't let the third row fool you, this Jeep is still capable,” says the Jeep’s division leader, Jim Morrison while clarifying the doubts about the off-roading potential of the new iteration.

In terms of exterior design, the Grand Cherokee L is a bit different than the two-door SUV. The front end is inspired by the Grand Wagoneer with slim, horizontal headlamps and a seven-slot grille. The LED daytime running lights are also positioned lower in the bumper, not as standard. At the rear, the SUV is outfitted with slim tail lights and on the sides, the wheel size ranges from 18- to 21-inch, depending on the trim. 

Getting inside the new Grand Cherokee L, the SUV looks much different from the standard version. At the centre, an 8.4-inch touchscreen (optional 10.1-inch touchscreen) is positioned on the all-new dashboard, which is mated to the brand’s latest UConnect 5 infotainment system and also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The central console features a gloss black finishing and a backlit rotary shift knob. 

For the driver’s assistance, there is a new 10.3-inch digital instrument panel that displays different kinds of information, including the details captured from the vehicle’s night vision system. According to Jeep, the Level 2 self-driving capability will also be available with the SUV by the end of the year. 

On the mechanical front, the automaker kept the Grand Cherokee's engines the same for its new generation; however, it announced a plug-in hybrid 4xe model that will be coming later this year. The same moniker has also been introduced for the Jeep Wrangler. The familiar powertrains include a Pentastar 3.6-litre V6 unit rated at 290 hp and 348 Nm and a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 good for 357 hp and 528 Nm. Both mills are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and two-wheel drive system, although four-wheel drive is available as an option.

Talking about the availability and price, the all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L will hit the US showrooms around midyear and the pricing details are yet to be announced.

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