All-new Jeep Grand Cherokee: First impression

Jeep is known for making off-road, multipurpose, lightweight, and solid vehicles. It has a wide range of models which are able to roll on almost all terrains with ease and confidence; one of them is the powerful Grand Cherokee SUV. The 4x4 model has recently made its entry into the Malaysian market in two robust iterations - Grand Cherokee SRT and Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, through a virtual launch event on Jeep Glenmarie’s official Facebook page. Let’s get into the details and specifications of these interesting SUVs in town.

Exterior

The new Jeeps boast a versatile design and rugged styling that can revive the adrenaline of every car enthusiast in just one glance. The front fascia of the models is decorated by the chrome-tinted wide seven-slot grille that enhances the performance by giving adequate air to the engine bay. The grille is flanked by broadly designed high-intensity LED headlights integrated with LED daytime running lights. The powerful body lines and seamless roof enhance the aerodynamic performance of SUVs.

Talking about the aesthetic differences between the two models, all the badges on the Grand Cherokee SRT are finished in matte black while Trackhawk gets gloss black finishing. The former has a dual exit exhaust at the rear, red brake calipers, and fog lights at the front, whereas the latter features a quad exit exhaust at the back, yellow brake calipers instead of red, and air vents in place of fog lights.

Rolling stock for both Grand Cherokee models includes a set of 295/45R20 Pirelli Scorpion Zero run-flat tires with 20-inch aluminium wheels for both the front and rear axles. The wheels are finished in black satin.

Engine specifications

Coming to the mechanical setup, the Grand Cherokee SRT packs a 6.4 litre naturally aspirated Hemi V8 mill that churns out a maximum output of 475 hp and a peak torque of 644 Nm. Over the 2015 version, these numbers are slightly up by 14 hp and 20 Nm. For transmission, the V8 is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel-drive system. The SUV can hit the 0-100 kmph mark in just 4.5 seconds, The driver-selectable drive modes include a Selec-Track adaptive damping system with Track, Sport, Snow, Auto, and Tow modes. 

On the contrary, the range-topping Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is fitted with a 6.2 litre supercharged V8 unit generating 707 hp of maximum power and 875 Nm of peak torque. Once again, the power is channeled through an eight-speed transmission to all four wheels, which enables the SUV to hit the century sprint in just 3.5 seconds. The adaptive damping system has the same driving modes as the Grand Cherokee SRT.

Interior equipment

Inside, the new Grand Cherokee SRT boasts a number of hi-tech features, including:

• 8.4-inch UConnect 4C infotainment system Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity 
• Harman Kardon 825-watt, 19-speaker premium audio system
• GPS navigation
• Dual-zone air-conditioning with automatic temperature control
• Active noise cancellation
• Laguna leather seat upholstery with accent stitching and a black SRT logo
• Heated and ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats
• Dual-pane panoramic sunroof

Moving to the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk interior, the SUV gets all the above-mentioned features; the only difference here is the Trackhawk black logos on seats.

Braking and safety

The all-new Grand Cherokee SRT is equipped with Brembo brakes providing stopping power with a six-piston system upfront and four-piston setup at the back. On the other hand, the supercharged trim has 400 mm vented discs along with six-piston calipers at the front axle and 350 mm discs with four-piston calipers on the rear.

As for safety, Jeep’s new SUVs are packed with seven airbags, which include advanced multistage driver and front passenger, side curtain, front-seat side, and knee. Included in the driver-assistance kit are a ParkView reversing camera, Hill Start Assist, and a parallel and perpendicular Park Assist.

Price

Jeep’s new CBU models are now available in the local market through TAHB Automotive at the Jeep Glenmarie showroom. The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT price starts at RM 719,000 (excluding registration, road tax, and insurance), whereas the more powerful Grand Cherokee Trackhawk retails for RM 869,000 without registration, road tax, and insurance. The mentioned prices include 50% sales and service tax exemption available for fully imported vehicles, which remains in effect till June 30, 2021.

Also read: Jeep Wrangler Magneto EV teased, debut soon