2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep's Grand Cherokee is one of the most recognizable brands on the market, and Chrysler's best seller behind the Ram. As such, it is a model watched especially closely for updates, changes, and potentially, mistakes. Like many “classic” brands, its followers are split between those those enthusiastically endorse any changes and those who rabidly decry any changes. This model year should be an interesting one for both kinds of fans.

This is a big year for efficiency for the Grand Cherokee. Big changes include the introduction of a diesel model, a first for the Cherokee, as well as the introduction of a ride-height selecting feature. These features, called “Quadra-Lift” in this model, seem to be very popular this model year, especially with bigger cars made by American manufacturers. The Quadra-Lift tech, combined with various other drivetrain features, rounds the diesel model out to an impressive mpg. The 4x2 models boast 21/30 city/highway and a 20/28 for the 4x4's. The diesel models also meet B5 compliance metrics, utilizing a fluid based SCR catalyst system to make it Tier II compliant, meaning it will be available in all 50 states.

One of those new drivetrain changes is an 8 speed automatic transition, which helps bump up the gas-powered models' mpg but only by one or two miles per gallon. Towing capacity sees a big jump, especially in the SRT model, which goes from a kind of wimpy 5000 lbs to a much beefier 7200lbs. All the new models also feature racing-inspired paddle shifters as part of a minor interior redesign. Most everything else is just tweaked. There's a new three-spoke steering wheel and the stubby T-bar shifter familiar to Charger owners makes an appearance here, too.

Cosmetically, however, there are plenty of new changes to the exterior. While the extra-functional Jeep styling remains at the fore, the Grand Cherokee is definitely going upscale this year. The foglights have moved and look like they're outlined in chrome, drawing an appreciative eye. The light clusters are grouped more tightly this year, with LED driving light standard on two of the premium packages. It is, of course, optional on the more basic Limited level. LED lights present themselves at the rear, too, making up the new taillights. As if by an occult hand, the tailgate's Jeep logo has jumped up and is now a larger piece of the visual detailing. But gaze upon it too long, mortal, and your very soul may be in danger. Black grille detailing is available on the sportier SRT model, too, for those wishing a more aggressive head-on view.

Overall, the new model year shows some very clever and forward-minded improvements. With gas consumption an ever-present concern, wise manufacturers are tweaking mpg where they can. Otherwise, some of our favorite classic models may disappear altogether. The 2014 Grand Cherokee has made some impressive improvements, keeping in mind the many Jeeps that serve double duty as both trailblazer and family car. The paddle shifters may excite your inner racer, but the Quadra-Lift tech is going to be equally exciting for the dad who has to drive precious cargo back and forth. All in all, it's going to be a pleasure to find oneself behind the wheel of the new Jeep.

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