2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Full-sized sport-utility vehicle is king of off-road trails

By Nina Russin

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland

The Grand Cherokee is Jeep’s biggest and most lavish sport-utility vehicle. For 2011, the automaker is introducing an all-new model with more comfort and convenience features, plus the off-road capability the brand is famous for.

The new Grand Cherokee is slightly longer and wider than the outgoing model. Designers pushed the rear axle back five inches to increase legroom in the second row.

An all-new flex-fuel V-6 engine comes standard on all three grades, with a five-speed automatic transmission. Buyers needing more than the standard engine’s 5000 pound towing capability can upgrade to a hemi V-8 that tows 7400 pounds. The hemi incorporates Chrysler’s multiple displacement technology which deactivates cylinders when engine loads are low to save fuel.

Jeep is introducing several new technologies to improve the Grand Cherokee’s performance on and off-road. A new air suspension system can raise the vehicle up for extreme off-road trails to create 10.7 inches of ground clearance.

The same system automatically lowers the Jeep from its normal setting to an aero position on the highway, to improve performance and fuel economy. The driver can lower the vehicle even further in park, to ease access and egress.

New front and rear independent suspensions contribute to a 146 percent improvement in torsional rigidity for better steering response. A Selec-Terrain system on the center console lets the driver choose from one of five conditions, to provide optimal engine and suspension tuning, with the appropriate safety technology.

Jeep is using the same trim designations as the outgoing model. The four-wheel drive Laredo starts at $32,995, while the upscale Overland  4X4 is priced from $42,995. 2011 models begin rolling into dealerships the end of July. Read the rest of this entry »