#NYIAS If you're looking for a sign of life from Chrysler, the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is as close as you're going to get. It looks even better in person that it does in pictures, and the interior is indeed a step above anything else Jeep has done before.
We asked Product Chief Frank Klegon why there's no third row, given the longer wheelbase of this Grand Cherokee. "Historically the Grand Cherokee has been a two-row SUV," he told us. "We wanted to keep its taut design intact." When we asked if the platform can be stretched any further, Klegon said, "Absolutely. Think of that as a little sneak peek."
Klegon said to expect this Grand Cherokee in the spring of 2010, so the stretched version isn't likely until late next year at the latest. -- Ed Hellwig, Lead Senior Editor, Inside Line
Full Story: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
uncanny_man says:
11:50 AM, 04/ 8/09
Sooo, the grand cherokee is now a land rover...
I hope the liberty will be modernized inside, without taking away from what makes it a jeep: simple ruggedness. Live axles are cost effective and a huge advantage for off-roading (more durable, much more wheel travel), so stop acting like fully independent suspensions are an improvement for jeeps. Simplicity and durability are what is essential for off-roading. If something goes wrong in the middle of nowhere, I don't want it to be computer related.
firstwagon says:
12:16 PM, 04/ 8/09
uncanny_man
I agree but it will be tough to convince others around here. Hope you have a think skin.
noflash1 says:
12:55 PM, 04/ 8/09
Even in real life it still looks like a photoshop.
nf
hondacura4 says:
04:43 PM, 04/ 8/09
I actually like the styling as it doesnt look "put together" like the past generations.
Styling aside, Im not sure Jeep enthusiasts will see the new one as an improvement as it has somewhat jumped the shark. However, enthusiasts dont keep the lights on and thats what Chrysler needs at the moment.
billt9 says:
05:58 PM, 04/ 8/09
Damn this thing is sweet!
I like everything but the steering wheel.
I'm sure I can get over the steering wheel to like the whole thing.
p_saurus says:
08:45 PM, 04/14/09
Do not want. My family has owned Jeeps since my Grandpa bought his first CJ-2A in 1947. My brother has a '71 Jeepster Commando and my dad has a '53 CJ-3b. I have an XJ Cherokee and I love it. The JK is nice if not a bit too big. I will never buy a Jeep with independent suspension of any kind. Hopefully they don't complete the destruction of the brand and neuter the Wrangler with their next re-design as well.