2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Revisions designed to improve steering effort and brake feel are among changes to the 2003 Grand Cherokee. Jeep's flagship SUV comes in Laredo, Limited, and top-line Overland trim. Inline-6 cyl and V8 engines are offered. The V8 has 235 hp in base form, 265 in the high-output tune standard on Overland and optional for Limited. The 6 cyl uses a 4-speed automatic transmission, the V8s a 5-speed automatic. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Grand Cherokee offers rear-wheel drive, Jeep's Selec-Trac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement, or all-wheel-drive systems called Quadra-Drive and Quadra-Trac. All 4x4s include low-range gearing. Head-protecting curtain side airbags are standard on Overland, optional on other models. Torso side airbags are not offered. Power-adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, a tire-pressure monitor, and rain-sensing windshield wipers are available. Laredo gets revised front seats for '03, and rear seats gain the LATCH child-seat attachment system.

COMPETITION

New to the class this year, Honda Pilot has taken the lead as a Best Buy. It offers ample cargo space, seating for eight passengers, all-wheel drive with a locking rear differential for added traction, and above-average refinement. Toyota Highlander is our other Best Buy, chosen for its on-road competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design.

Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, and Toyota 4Runner. For 2003, all now offer optional V8 engines and--with the exception of 4Runner--three rows of seats.