2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.