The Chrysler Group has just had a bumper September, with total sales increasing 27 percent to 127,334 units. This makes it their best September since 2007 and also the 18th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. It’s also been the best September for Jeep since 2007 with sales for the Grand Cherokee up 78 percent. This can be easily attributed to the introduction of the all-new Grand Cherokee in June this year.
Jeep have no doubt benefited from Fiat’s takeover, one such distinct gain has been the introduction of a new 3.0 litre V6 turbo-diesel engine for the Grand Cherokee. This engine as fitted to my test Jeep has been developed and patented by Fiat Powertrain Technologies. For me, it’s the Grand Cherokee’s finest feature, it delivers all 241hp effortlessly and its grand power is backed up with an immense 550Nm of Torque. This power, combined with a five-speed automatic gearbox and a Quadra-Trac II 4-wheel drive system, enable the Cherokee to be a very capable vehicle. If you’re after even more power, and you just happen to own your own fuel station, there’s a 5.7 V8 HEMI petrol version available, that delivers 352hp. Prices for the Grand Cherokee commence around €63,000.
It’s a muscular looking machine visually with a well sculpted aerodynamic body. The Grand Cherokee offers its occupants a generous level of space and comfort. The rear seats have a clever reclining function for those that wish to nod off on a long journey. Up-front, the dash is far-more modern than its out-dated predecessor, there’s also a noticeable improvement in the quality of materials used which result in a more up-market feel to the Jeep’s interior.
With a combination of stylish looks, powerful engines, high levels of comfort and above all keen pricing, this all-new Grand Cherokee may well upset its rivals from Range Rover and BMW.
* Irish Prices to be confirmed.
