2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Specs
The Pinnacle of off-road SUV
You want to take a full-size SUV out onto the dirt road. You also want the luxury feel for the more casual metropolitan runs. The Jeep Grand Cherokee gets you an ample amount of both. But the final icing on the cake is that it doesn’t wear a posh European badge alike the Land Rover or Range Rover. Perhaps, it’s the trifecta of hard work, ingenuity and domestic talent that’s earned Jeep the exceptional brand reputation it has today.
Built on the backbone of the robust engineering dating as far back as 1942; helping serve World War II (I’m referring to the Willy), the Jeep Grand Cherokee has evolved into something that has achieved a perfect balance of form and function. It’s no longer just an incredible dirt-crawler machine like the Wrangler, but also what would appeal to those with deep pockets and tailored suits.
Exceptional Engineering
It’s easy; even for an amateur to figure out that the Grand Cherokee means serious business. That’s because it’s got the Jeep legendary 4×4 drivetrain with an incredible 44:1 crawl ratio, and a towing capacity of up to 7,200 lbs. That’s if you get one with the 5.7L 360 horsepower V8. Even if you don’t, the standard Pentastar 3.6L V6 is no slouch either, with a respectable 295 horsepower and a towing capacity of just 1,000 lbs less
Let’s face it. It’s not only about numbers that make the Jeep Cherokee Grand. It’s about creating emotions stitched by the numbers being driven underneath it. The signature 7-slot chromed front grille, bi-xenon headlamps, integrated rear spoiler and massive 20″ wheels all makes for a premium; yet, aggressive road persona.
The Design
Through the human eye, the Jeep Grand Cherokee satisfies all the essentials to rightfully classify it as a premium SUV. But what about the human touch? It’s a non-trivial problem to solve. After all, offering luxury looks and feel on a purpose-built vehicle destined to look good in mud sounds counter-intuitive; let alone, a skill Jeep isn’t exactly renowned for.
Still, the stiff quilted leather, panoramic sunroof and its thick grip steering wheel all meddles together brilliantly well . And let’s also not forget the massive 11.4″ infotainment system running on one of the best and most user-intuitive UConnect software.
On the Road
On the road, the Grand Cherokee is what you would expect – big, confident and safe. Any sense of external influence is nullified. Because Jeep engineers made sure the cabin space would be a place of serenity. But that sounds contradictory to its fundamental intent of unlimited traction, but most of all, to look good in dirt.
Final Thought
It’s an interesting sell. You’ve got the best of off-road capability and luxury; yet, you can only choose one. And that’s likely the latter. Regardless of which you choose, be prepared spend. Because our Grand Cherokee Summit 4×4 tester will cost a whopping $78,780 by the time you complete the paper work. And if you do get the keys, have a high expectation – because you deserve it.
Specifications
- Vehicle : 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Model : Grand Cherokee Summit 4×4
- Price as Tested : $78,780
- Vehicle Type : Luxury SUV
- Seating Capacity : 2+3
- Powertrain Configuration : 4×4
- Engine : 3.5L Pentastar V6
- Transmission : 8-speed Autmoatic Torque Flite Transmission
- Fuel Economy: 21 mpg
- Horsepower : 296
- Torque: 260
Pros
- Legendary Jeep Styling and 4×4 System
- Exceptional Styling, Comfort and Design
- Smooth and powerful Pentastar 3.6L V6 engine
Cons
- High price tag
- Sluggish and dated driving characteristic
- No clear intent between luxury and off-road capability