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2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reaches New Heights
This all-new two-row Grand Cherokee SUV joins a lineup that already includes the first-ever three-row, the L model.
It's been a mixed bag recently for Jeep Grand Cherokee aficionados. A new three-row Grand Cherokee L debuted for the 2021 model year to much fanfare, but the GC's two-row fourth-generation variant has soldiered on unchanged, despite being on the market for 11 long years. A redesigned two-row Grand Cherokee has been eagerly anticipated, and our initial experience with the 2022 model tells us that the patience of its fan base will be rewarded—if they're willing to pay for more than a decade's worth of catch-up.
The new standard two-row Grand Cherokee is some 11.4 inches shorter than its three-row L counterpart. More to the point, it's 3.7 inches longer, an inch wider, and has a lower roofline than the outgoing model. It rides on a 116.7-inch wheelbase that's exactly two inches longer than before, and the track width is up 1.4 inches. The result is a subtle swelling that's almost undetectable because its proportions remain pure Grand Cherokee. There's a certain fireplug stoutness to its shape, with its straight character lines, tented greenhouse, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a tapered D-pillar that tips forward a bit more than the boxier three-row L's. This time out the hood is a bit longer, and the nose and requisite seven-slot grille are canted slightly forward, à la Jeep J-series. Consider yourself forgiven if you didn't notice that the side glass extends nearly a half inch lower, improving visibility.
Despite its growth, Jeep says the new Grand Cherokee weighs about 250 pounds less than before. You can't point to just one change to explain this, as it derives from numerous advancements. The unibody structure now contains more high-strength steel, there's more aluminum in the upper body, and the rear liftgate is made from a combination of aluminum and composite materials. The front subframe cradle is now made of aluminum, as are nearly all of the front and rear suspension pieces. The front axle shafts on four-wheel-drive models are hollow, and they run through the oil pan so the engine can sit about 1.5 inches lower.
The available engines—a standard 293-hp 3.6-liter V-6 and an optional 357-hp 5.7-liter V-8—largely carry over. Both remain paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, though minor tweaks have added 1 mpg to the EPA combined estimate for V-6 models, now to 22 mpg. V-8 models continue to carry a federal combined score of 17 mpg yet gain a shorter final-drive ratio that helps them get off the line a little better than before. Maximum towing capacities remain unchanged at 6200 pounds for the V-6 and 7200 pounds for the V-8.
Less weight and an engine mounted lower in the chassis can aid handling, but the new Grand Cherokee also employs revised multilink front and rear suspension, which contribute to its pleasantly direct steering, steady cornering attitude, and its ability to soak up bumps like never before. The vehicles we drove were fitted with optional air springs and adaptive dampers, a combination that delivered impressive composure and admirable isolation over neglected asphalt, even when riding on the Summit Reserve model's 21-inch wheels. We also sampled a more rugged Overland model with 18-inch wheels on gnarled dirt roads and came away equally impressed.
We were impressed with the interior of the Grand Cherokee L when it was introduced, and the two-row's cabin is no different. The design team stepped up to deliver a more cohesive cockpit and dash, as well as premium materials that balance warm leathers and woods with glossy trim and brightwork. It's all executed with top-notch fit and finish. The extra few inches of length made it possible to increase interior cargo space.
The most sumptuous place to be is in a top-end Summit Reserve with Palermo leather in a rich tupelo honey; quilted seats that are heated, cooled, and provide massage; natural open-pore wood trim; slim and elegant HVAC vents; well-integrated screens in the dash; and the 19-speaker McIntosh audio system with an app so you can watch the dancing needles on the center screen. Credit the late Sergio Marchionne, former CEO of FCA, who was behind the partnership with McIntosh. Marchionne was an audiophile and had a McIntosh system in his home.
The Grand Cherokee runs Uconnect 5, which is five times faster and more intuitive with fewer steps and more personalized content. Entertainment includes Amazon Fire TV, the Jeeps are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and there is a wireless charging pad in the front center console.
Screens include a 10.1-inch digital cluster and infotainment screen in the realigned center stack. The front passenger now has a 10.3-inch screen and can send drive routes to the driver. In the back seat, additional 10.1-inch screens swivel for better viewing—there are no more flip-up displays.
How Much Does The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Cost?
Pricing starts at $39,185 for the Laredo, $45,505 for Limited, $53,070 for Trailhawk, $55,100 for Overland, and $59,160 for Summit. Pricing hits $68,455 for a Summit Reserve with the V-8.
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