Introducing a Great New 3-Row Jeep Grand Cherokee

This three row utility vehicle is combined with the “L” representing an extended wheelbase. The added strength, versatility, and of-road capability allows driver and passengers (total 7) to enjoy the luxury of an upper level trim in a way that enhances the off road environment experience.

The Summit Reserve 4X4 has the best premium interior qualities offered by Jeep.

The 3.6-liter V-6 is a standard base engine that produces 290 horsepower and 260

lb-ft of torque mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission to power all four

wheels. Though powerful, it still provides 18-mpg city, 25- mpg highway for a

combined 21-mpg.

But the higher Summit Reserve allows you to get the more powerful 5.7-liter V-8, with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft torque.

Photo: Jeep

The manufacturer’s literature says my Grand Cherokee can do zero to 60 in 7.7

seconds. Large 21-inch wheels provide great security and comfort, thanks to its

adaptive dampers and latest Quadra-Lift air suspension. The system can also raise

the body an additional 2.4-inches for a total 10.9-inches of ground clearance,

enabling it to ford 2-feet of water.

In fact, a fellow car writer stated that the “Cherokee L is the most off-road capable

main stream vehicle” he is aware of.

Stepping inside the new Jeep Cherokee will bring a broad-bright smile. The cabin

is large, as the driver seat positions you perfectly to read the Unconnect 5

navigation that waterfalls into a neat design integrated into the dashboard with

10.1-inch display.

Photo: Jeep

The Palermo leather seats have beautiful stitching and “open-pore” wood trim and

leather appointed dash. The rotary knob is knurled metal companioned nicely with

the accented stitching throughout the cabin.

Apple CarPlay, Google Android Auto, Sirius XM 4G LTE Wi fi Hot Spot and

Connected Travel and Traffic service are standard features.

Photo: Jeep

My favorite feature was the McIntosh 19-speaker Audio System that serves up a

high fidelity system unequaled to anything I have experienced or heard in the past.

The music is so grand that it keeps the grandkids quiet in the back.

The new 10.25-inch gauge cluster digital unit has a floating panel look with LED

back lights behind the borderless sides. These incorporate several pieces of vehicle

information screens that provide integration for a live navigation map, night vision

display, and a wide array of customization.

I would be remiss if I didn’t explain the seating area. The heated, ventilated, and

massaging 16-way front seat adjustments are comfortable and marvelous to

experience.

The rear view mirror is most interesting, doubling as a live camera feed out back

for a clear path view from a mounted camera. Plus the ingenious Cam System

allows you to display a live image on the screen of the second and third row

passenger seats. Now you can truly yell, “I saw that” to the kids and really mean it.

Photo: Jeep

The third row seat is surprisingly roomy, easily accommodating a tall passenger.

There is a slight roof bubble that provides extra inches of head, leg and shoulder

room. Several USB ports are featured for easy access.

Passenger safety has not been overlooked. Surround View Camera System, Blind

Spot and Cross Path Detection, Side Distance Warning, Drowsy Driver Detection,

and Safe Distance Warning are just a few of the great safety features.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit is built for off-road travel. Off-road or paved

road, you will like traveling in this Jeep. So get ready for a journey. The sliding,

adjustable seats make it easy to load and unload an abundance of cargo with seats

down (84.6 cubic feet of cargo space). With a maximum payload of 1,210 lbs., it

can tow 6,200 lbs. with the V-6 engine.

Total Price $64,280.

Warranty Coverage

5-year or 60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty.

3-year or 36.000-mile Basic Limited Warranty.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at

this newspaper or [email protected].