Jeep India’s new flagship SUV- the Grand Cherokee will make its official debut in the Indian market in November this year. Jeep released a teaser confirming the news while road-testing of the purpose-built SUV was already underway since March. The Grand Cherokee would become Jeep India’s fourth model, placed at the top of its line-up that comprises the Compass, the Meridian, and the Wrangler all four of which are locally assembled at Jeep’s plant in Maharashtra. The Cherokee will only be available in a five-seater guise unlike the seven-seater L model sold overseas. Also, Jeep says that India will be the first market outside North America to have the locally assembled Grand Cherokee on sale. Talking about the looks, there are definitely no 2 ways about the fact that they are inspired by the Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer concept.
But, unlike the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer concepts which are both ladder-frame SUVs, the Grand Cherokee remains a unibody construction. The 2021 version is built on an all-new platform and has a lot of lightweight elements, aimed at bettering the ride and handling over its predecessor. It also includes active engine mounts and a front axle that is directly bolted onto the engine to bring down cabin noise. It also includes an optional air suspension which can effectively raise or lower the ride height.
As mentioned, the looks are inspired by the GW concept. It gets a signature Jeep grille up front with a massive air intake beneath it. The LED headlamps are squarish, flanked by LED DRLs. The front looks boxy and a bit quadrilateral-esque. On the sides, the length is clearly visible. The rear looks a tad bit empty considering the sheer size. On the inside, it is all plush and premium. It gets 3-spoke steering with expectedly heated/cooled seats. It also gets an 8.4” or a 10.1” infotainment system depending on the model. A HUD, night camera, a rearview camera will be offered as well. Collision warning with active braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist with lane departure warning, brake assist, and blind-spot monitoring are standard.
With no diesel on offer, a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission will be the sole option. Selectable terrain modes like Auto, Sport, Mud/Sand and Snow with Jeep’s four-wheel drive system will be on board.