2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Road Test

Acceleration with the V6 feels sluggish on takeoff, has little passing-power reserve, but is OK in freeway cruising. The 4.7 V8 is noticeably stronger, thus a better choice with AWD. Muscular 5.7 V8 delivers impressive power. SRT8 does 0-60 mph in just 5.0 sec, says Jeep, but didn't feel that quick on a brief preview test drive. Automatic transmission smooth, responsive in all models. Maximum tow ratings are 7200 lb with 5.7 V8, 6500 with 4.7 V8, 3500 for V6 models and SRT8. Test AWD 4.7 V8 Laredo averaged 16.0 mpg in even mix of city/highway driving. Test 5.7 V8 AWD Limited averaged 17.9 in mainly highway driving, but just 12.0 mpg in mostly city work. Jeep recommends 87-octane fuel for V6 and 4.7 V8, 89 octane or higher for 5.7 V8, 91 for SRT8. Overall ride comfort is quite good for an SUV, especially one with a suspension suited to severe off-road duty. Solid-feeling structure enhances impression of carlike comfort. Main demerit is some float on dips and swells at highway speeds except for taut SRT8, which tends to jiggle on less-than-perfect pavement. Handling is also impressive for a SUV, but body lean prompts slowing down for tight, fast turns, even in handling-oriented SRT8. Steering has well-judged effort, good feedback, but isn't quick or precise by car standards. Braking strong. All models keep tire and wind noise at bay, but test 5.7 V8 AWD Limited suffered modest gear whine at highway speeds. Interior features easy-read gauges and simple, logically placed switchgear. Most climate controls are rotary knobs--a plus--but optional navigation system absorbs too many audio functions, takes time to learn and adjust. Few padded soft-touch surfaces, but materials have rich grain, low-gloss finish, and are assembled with care. Overland, SRT8 include swanky leather/suede upholstery. Front-seat head room not generous, but there's ample leg and shoulder space on supportive seats. Comfortable take-charge driving stance has enough adjustments to suit most anyone. Visibility a bit cluttered to right rear, and thick windshield pillars hinder seeing around some corners. Rear-seat room has scant leg room if front seats are more than halfway back. Ride height lower than midsize SUV norm, easing entry/exit. Cargo space ample by absolute standards but subpar for class. Still, good suitcase room behind split rear seat, which folds easily but doesn't make a fully flat deck. Rear-floor panel/tire cover reverses from carpet to plastic for messy loads and has small built-in storage bin. Up-front cabin storage good, not great.

Value for the Money
Rear-seat room and comfort disappoint, but Grand Cherokee is solid, rides comfortably, has fine ergonomics, handles well, and is tenacious off-road. It's also competitively priced. The V6 is too weak for this vehicle's weight, but not the workhorse 4.7 V8 or muscular 5.7 Hemi. And the SRT8 is a hot rod wagon.