All models but the SRT-8 have a 3.7-liter V6 engine that makes 210 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque, but a 357-hp 5.7-liter V8 Hemi with Chrysler's Multi Displacement System, which deactivates cylinders when the engine isn't under load to help save on gasoline use, is optional. The SRT-8 comes with the 6.1-liter Hemi V8, which packs 420 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque for faster acceleration than is often found in an SUV. The Grand Cherokee in all trims has a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Front passengers are protected by multistage airbags, while all outboard passengers get supplemental side curtain airbags. Chrysler's Electronic Stability Program, TPMS, anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes, and brake assist are standard across the mode lineup, plus the 4-wheel-drive models have 4-wheel traction control.
The Laredo starts with adventure-ready features such as a 60/40 folding rear seat and roof rack, plus 8-way power cloth bucket seats, which can be upgraded to leather-trimmed heated front seats. Moving up to the Limited adds the ParkSense rear park assist system and a rearview camera, plus power adjustable pedals, rain-sensitive windshield wipers, heated second-row seats, and a memory function that includes radio settings.
Speaking of the sound system, the basic 6-speaker media center plays both CDs and MP3s, but it can be upgraded to a Boston Acoustics system that also plays DVDs. The Limited trim adds a navigation system and one year of Sirius Traffic, which integrates with the navigation system to help drivers pick the route with the fewest headaches.
The SRT-8 stands alone in the features category, with exterior cues such as massive 20-inch wheels with run-flat tires replacing the 17-inch aluminum wheels on the Limited and Laredo, dual exhaust and a rear spoiler. It also has performance-tuned steering, suspension and brakes, which come in handy when owners sign up for the SRT Track Experience. The ability to take the powerful engine sport-tuned handling to the track to really push the SUV's performance envelope may alone be worth the purchase price.
Hemi V8 Engine Is Super Powerful
Lots Of Cargo Space
Plenty Of Room For Passengers
Few features have been added to the Grand Cherokee for 2010 as a complete redesign is expected for the 2011 model year. A few features were dropped from the Grand Cherokee for 2010, such as the Overland trim level and a couple of optional engines, including the turbo diesel V6. That still leaves plenty to like, including the high-performance SRT-8 model with a 420-hp Hemi V8 under the hood.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee holds its place as one of the sportier utility vehicles on the market. The interior space is comfortable for actual humans, with enough room for the gear that comes with them. The Limited and SRT-8 models come with enough standard goodies to put the Grand Cherokee in the luxury SUV class, while the Laredo offers great basics for the price.
