Jeep Grand Cherokee review

The biggest change for 2014 was the introduction of a new eight-speed automatic. This transforms how the Jeep drives, bringing Germanic sophistication that’s further enhanced by an updated V6 diesel engine. Both work better off road too, something Jeep’s clearly very proud of (you’ll spend hours trying to figure out the various four-wheel drive system options...). 

There are two versions of the regular Grand Cherokee, both with the same 3.0-litre diesel engine that puts out 237bhp and 405 lb ft of torque. A V8 petrol is also available, if you must. Most use a standard steel suspension set-up, while the Overland and Summit use the Quadra-Lift sports air suspension and performance brakes. The difference is quite significant as the air suspension makes the ride and handling of the Grand Cherokee infinitely better. Even with this set-up, the Grand Cherokee never feels as agile as a BMW X5 but it is comfortable. The standard car inspires less confidence, pitching and rolling more through corners.