1999-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Road Test

Handling and off-road ability are top Grand Cherokee strengths. Control in directional changes is good, despite a fair amount of body lean. Steering feels natural, though small corrections are needed at highway speeds. No midsize SUV rides more comfortably. The revised suspension handles all but the worst potholes with ease, but permits queasy fore-and-aft and side-to-side pitching motions through uneven pavement. And even the worst terrain elicits no squeaks or rattles from the stiffened body structure. Acceleration is adequate with the 6-cylinder engine, robust with the V8, and the new 4.7 liter is far smoother than the old 5.2-liter V8. The reworked 6-cylinder also is much quieter. A 6-cylinder 4WD Laredo averaged 16.1 mpg. Wind rush and tire roar may intrude at highway speeds, but the quieter engines help lower overall interior noise levels. Transmissions shift with prompt smoothness. Braking is strong and smooth. Selec-Trac or Quadra-Trac furnish more than enough traction on even the most slippery streets, but Quadra-Drive offers the ultimate in 4WD grip. A Quadra-Drive Grand Cherokee can climb in and out of places that leave rivals spinning their tires, though gear whine is intrusive. Four adults get plenty of space. Grand Cherokees still aren't wide enough to seat three adults comfortably in back, and the rear seatback is too upright for best comfort, with little toe space ahead. All seats are too soft for best support. Large outside mirrors are helpful, but roof pillars are too thick for full outward vision. Generously sized bins and pockets provide plenty of storage space for small items. Relocating the spare tire opened up more luggage room, but it's still only adequate and rear seats are somewhat difficult to fold. Back-seat entry/exit is hampered by narrow door bottoms.

Value for the Money
An even better dollar value than the old Grand Cherokee, this version offers good performance and overall design. Long-term mechanical reliability is still a question mark.