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2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review
An antiskid system as standard and new luxury and sport models make 2006 news for Grand Chrokee. This SUV has a rear liftgate with opening glass and five-passenger seating. No 3rd-row seating is available. Joining base Laredo and midline Limited models are the luxury Overland and the sporty SRT8. A 210-hp V6 is standard on Laredo. A 235-hp V8 is standard on Limited, optional on Laredo. Standard on Overland and optional on Limited is the 330-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8 from Jeep-parent Chrysler. This engine has Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System to deactivate four cylinders while cruising to save fuel. SRT8 has a 420-hp 6.1-liter Hemi V8 without the system. All use a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate. SRT8 has all-wheel drive. Other Grand Cherokees come in rear-wheel-drive and AWD versions. Each V8 model uses a specific AWD system; the SRT8's lacks low-range gearing, as does the AWD V6's. All versions have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. SRT8 and AWD versions come with traction control. All but Laredos now include heated front seats and power-adjustable pedals.

Curtain side airbags are standard on Overland, optional otherwise. Overland has front and rear limited-slip differentials, which are an AWD Limited option. Overland also comes with rear obstacle detection and Chrysler's UConnect wireless cell phone link. SRT8 exclusives include sport-tuned suspension, Brembo-brand brakes, specific trim inside and out, and sport front seats. DVD entertainment and a navigation system are available for all. An off-road package is an AWD Laredo option.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota 4Runner.

New or significantly redesigned models include Hummer H3, Jeep Commander, Pontiac Torrent, and Subaru B9 Tribeca.
News
An available diesel engine leads Grand Cherokee changes for 2007. Due to be available in the first quarter of the new calendar year, the engine is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 designed and supplied by the Mercedes-Benz division of DaimlerChrysler. Outputs, price and other details aren't available yet, but Jeep says the turbodiesel model will be 30 percent thriftier than a gasoline V6 Grand Cherokee and will go 425 miles on a tank vs. 300 or so. More news as we get it, so keep checking back with us.
2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration (Hemi V8) Fuel economy
Passenger and cargo room Handling
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
3 5 6 8 5

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, virtually transparent switching between four and eight cylinders. 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.
Fuel Economy

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
4 4 3 2 3.8

No opportunity yet to measure a V6. Ditto 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.
Ride Quality

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
6 6 6 5 5.4

Quite good for an SUV, especially one with a suspension suited to severe off-road duty. Absorbs most bumps with little harshness. 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.
Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
4 4 4 6 4.1

Balanced, stable, 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.
Quietness

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
5 6 6 5 5.2

All models keep tire and wind noise at bay, but test 5.7 V8 AWD Limited suffered modest gear whine at highway speeds. Engines quiet enough at cruise, slightly gruff at full throttle--especially the overtaxed V6. SRT8 V8 provides a NASCAR-style soundtrack.
Controls

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
7 7 6 7 6.3

Easy-read gauges. 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.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
7 7 7 7 6.7

Head room not generous for 6-footers, but 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. Ride height lower than midsize SUV norm, easing entry/exit.
Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
4 4 4 4 6.2

Seat quite firm and not contoured for best comfort. Three adults fit, but none have much foot space. Outboard leg room tight with seats moved more than halfway back. Head room just OK for six-footers. Entry/exit hampered by fairly narrow thresholds, doors that should open wider.
Cargo Room

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
8 8 8 8 8.3

Total 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 within Class

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
5 7 7 5 5.7

Rear-seat room and comfort disappoint, as does the lack of 3-row seating, though Jeep's new Commander answers that. 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.
Total Score

2WD Laredo, V6 AWD Laredo, 4.7 V8 AWD Limited w/nav. sys., 5.7 V8 SRT8 Class Average
53 58 57 57 56.7
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
43
Average Score
56
High Score
66
2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 08/14/2006
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
2WD Laredo 4-door wagon $27,415 $25,179 $695
AWD Laredo 4-door wagon $29,385 $27,968 $695
2WD Limited 4-door wagon $33,615 $30,697 $695
AWD Limited 4-door wagon $36,205 $33,037 $695
2WD Overland 4-door wagon $39,440 $35,882 $695
AWD Overland 4-door wagon $42,680 $38,800 $695
AWD SRT8 4-door wagon $39,300 $36,222 $695
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Laredo
Powertrain
3.7-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system w/rollover sensors, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, variable-intermittent wipers, map lights, visor mirrors, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Full-size spare tire, 235/65R17 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, front and rear traction control.
Limited adds to Laredo:
Powertrain
4.7-liter V8 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather upholstery, heated front seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, pedals), power-adjustable pedals, 4-way power passenger seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, heated power mirrors, Boston Acoustics AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, rain-sensing wipers, automatic on/off and self-dimming headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Roof rack, fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
245/65R17 all-terrain white-letter tires, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, front and rear traction control.
Overland adds to Limited:
Powertrain
5.7-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation.
Safety
Curtain side airbags, rear-obstacle-detection system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather/suede upholstery, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, navigation system, satellite radio w/one year service, wireless cell phone link, power sunroof, cargo cover.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Front tow hooks, Class IV hitch receiver, wiring harness, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, front and rear traction control, front and rear limited-slip differentials.
SRT8 adds to Laredo:
Powertrain
6.1-liter V8 engine, all-wheel drive, front and rear traction control.
Safety
Uprated brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather/suede upholstery, power passenger seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, heated power mirrors, Boston Acoustics AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, universal garage door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Trailer-wiring harness, performance suspension, 255/45ZR20 front and 285/40ZR20 rear run-flat tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Quick Order Pkg. 26/28F
Laredo
$1,580
$1,390
Heated power mirrors, 4-way power passenger seat, Boston Acoustics sound system, additional auxiliary power outlet, illuminated visor mirrors, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, automatic headlights, alarm, fog lights.
Quick Order Pkg. 26/28X
Laredo
$3,725
$3,278
Quick Order Pkg. 26/28F plus leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering w/radio controls, power sunroof, cargo cover, roof rack.
65th Anniversary Quick Order Pkg.
Laredo
$895
$788
Power sunroof, upgraded cloth upholstery, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo net, special floormats, fog lights, bodyside moldings, tow hooks, unique alloy wheels.
Quick Order Pkg. 25/28K
2WD Limited
$1,250
$1,100
AWD Limited
$1,900
$1,672
Rear-obstacle-detection system, power sunroof, satellite radio w/one year service, Quadra-Drive transfer case (AWD), front and rear limited-slip differentials (AWD).
AY1 Option Pkg.
SRT8
$3,195
$2,812
Curtain side airbags, rear-obstacle-detection system, dual-zone automatic climate controls, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, pedals), power sunroof, satellite radio w/one year service, wireless cell phone link, rain-sensing wipers.
Power Convenience Group
Laredo w/Pkg. 26/28F
$370
$326
Laredo w/65th Anniversary Pkg.
$395
$348
Heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals.
Premium Sound Group
Laredo
$690
$607
Boston Acoustics sound system, satellite radio (includes one year service). Requires 65th Anniversary Quick Order Pkg.
Touring Plus Group
Laredo
$999
$879
Special floormats, body cladding, bright grille, rear spoiler.
Off-Road Group
AWD Laredo
$420
$370
AWD Laredo w/65th Anniversary Pkg.
$335
$295
Skid plates, tow hooks, 245/65R17 all-terrain white-letter tires. Requires 4.7-liter V8 engine, Quick Order Pkg.
Cargo Convenience Group
Laredo
$125
$110
Cargo cover, roof rack.
Trailer Tow Group
Laredo
$180
$158
Class II trailer hitch receiver, wiring harness. NA w/4.7-liter V8 engine.
Trailer Tow Group IV
Laredo, Limited
$255
$224
Class IV receiver hitch, 7-wire harness w/4-pin adapter. Std. Overland.
Powertrain
4.7-liter V8 engine
2WD Laredo
$720
$634
AWD Laredo
$1,340
$1,179
AWD includes Quadra-Trac II 2-speed transfer case.
5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation
Limited
$845
$744
Quadra-Trac II
4WD Laredo
$620
$546
Includes 2-speed transfer case.
Safety
Curtain side airbags
Laredo, Limited, SRT8
$560
$493
Rear-obstacle-detection system
Limited
$255
$244
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
Laredo
$1,500
$1,320
Limited, SRT8
$1,200
$1,056
Laredo requires Quick Order Pkg. 26/28X. Limited requires Quick Order Pkg. 25/28K.
Power sunroof
Laredo, Limited, SRT8
$800
$704
Laredo requires Quick Order Pkg. 26/28F.
Electronic Infotainment System Group
Laredo, Limited, Overland, SRT8
$1,200
$1,056
DVD entertainment system. Laredo requires Quick Order Pkg. 26/28X. SRT8 requires AY1 Option Pkg.
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
Laredo
$300
$264
Requires Quick Order Pkg.
Satellite radio
Laredo, Limited
$195
$172
Laredo requires Quick Order Pkg.
UConnect
Laredo, Limited
$275
$242
Wireless cell phone link. Laredo requires Quick Order Pkg. 26/28X. Limited requires Quick Order Pkg. 25/28K.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Pearlcoat paint
Laredo, Limited, Overland, SRT8
$150
$132
Red pearlcoat paint
Laredo, Limited, Overland, SRT8
$225
$198
Engine-block heater
Laredo, Limited, SRT8
$40
$35
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Skid plates
AWD Limited
$200
$176
AWD Overland
$145
$128
235/65R17 tires
Limited, Overland (credit)
$-190
$-167
245/65R17 all-terrain white-letter tires
Laredo
$190
$167
Chrome alloy wheels
Limited
$820
$722
2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Jeep Grand Cherokee 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 109.5
Overall Length, in. 186.6
Overall Width, in. 84.3
Overall Height, in. 67.7
Curb Weight, lbs. 4441
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 67.4
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 20.8
Seating Capacity 5
Front Head Room, in. 39.7
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.7
Rear Head Room, in. 39.3
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 35.5
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  sohc V6 sohc V8 ohv V8 ohv V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 3.7 /226 4.7 /287 5.7 /345 6.1 /370
Horsepower @ rpm. 210 @ 5200 235 @ 4500 330 @ 5000 420 @ 6200
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 235 @ 4000 305 @ 3600 375 @ 4000 420 @ 4800
Availability Standard Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
       
5-speed automatic 17/21 15/20 14/19 12/15
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Jeep Grand Cherokee 4-door wagon
Front Impact, Driver 5
Front Impact, Passenger 5
Rollover Resistance 4
Side Impact, Driver 5
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain 3/36,000 $100 deductible per visit.
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion 5/100,000 --
Free roadside assistance 3/36,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: USA
Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive

Tester's Comments
Vehicle Evaluated:  2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Trim Level:  SRT8
Arrival Date:  08/17/2006
Engine:  ohv V8
Bodystyle:  4-door wagon
Transmission:  5-speed automatic
4WD/AWD:  Yes
Base Price:  $39,300
Price as Tested:  $45,630
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  5263
Mileage at End of Test:  6094
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  60.587 gals.
 

Major Options:  Customer Preferred Package 29L (Electron Infotainment Group, overhead rear console, rear seat entertainment video system) SRT Option Group 1 (power 8-way driver memory, 4-way passenger seats, power sunroof, deluxe door trim panel, driver auto dim exterior mirror, heated fold-away mirrors with memory, air condition ATC with dual zone control, rain sensitive windsheild wipers, power adjustable pedals with memory, bright pedals, heated front seats, SmartBeam headlamps, SIRIUS satellite radio, UConnect hands free communication, ParkSense rear park assist system, supplemental side air bags, front and rear side curtain air bags) Engine Block heater, 6CD/Full Map GPS Display and Navigation Radio.

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  13.78 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None


From The Back Seat
Damon Bell The Grand Cherokee SRT-8 is blisteringly fast for its size and handles about as well as any midsize SUV has a right to. It's still incongruous to me, since an SUV's size, weight, and high center of gravity detract from handling and performance. DaimlerChrysler has done a nice job optimizing this Jeep's on-road performance, but I would still choose any of its SRT-8 stablemates over it. Also, wallet-draining premium fuel thirst is a given in any large, 420+ hp vehicle.

Ed Piotrowski There's no debating Grand Cherokee SRT8's fun-to-drive quotient. It's wicked fast, stable, and handles quite nicely for an SUV. But don't rush out and buy without also trying Chevy's TrailBlazer SS. It gives up some horsepower, steering, and handling response in favor of a more accomodating interior, better cargo room, and greater towing capability. It also costs about $4,000 less than the SRT8 when comparably equipped (AWD, DVD, nav system).

Kirk Bell Versus other Grand Cherokees, buyers might find this rides too harsh. Maybe this rating should come down to a 4. Yes, the SRT8 is wicked fast, but nobody really needs the extra power, especially with the willing 5.7-liter Hemi. I'm torn, though, because the base price isn't all that high considering the gobs of power.

Rick Cotta Leaning heavily toward the "sport" side of sport-utility, the SRT-8 boasts a better performance-per-dollar ratio than any other SUV on the planet. In fact, it may well be the best street-performance SUV of ANY price. Unfortunately, that's its only real selling point, in other ways, the Grand Cherokee (and by extension, the SRT-8) is a mediocre mid-size ute with limited interior room and no third-row seat.

Tom Appel Somewhat less conspicuous than a Hummer H2, and only slightly more efficient, Jeep's take on the SRT theme is a pretty silly exercise. It handles fairly well, and it's rocket fast, but Grand Cherokee SRT8 seems needlessly wasteful in this new era of hyper-precious petroleum. Want a sporty SUV? Skip this beast and check out the (relatively) lithe Acura RDX or Mazda CX-7. I think the pointless muscle era has passed.

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