Playing bully in a crowded school yard
This means DaimlerChrysler's division benefits from an almost eternal popularity. In addition, the Grand Cherokee was once named the most desirable SUV. Its Trail Rated badge, although seemingly useless at first, indicates that you can basically take the vehicle off the road without hesitation. For instance, the base Laredo isn't Trail Rated, but the Limited and Overland models are. This 2006 Limited model's changes are so insignificant over the redesigned 2005 model, that they aren't noticeable. The first thing you notice about the Grand Cherokee, is that it looks rather expensive. This is because the rear end seems to be copied from previous Range Rovers. The front end, though, looks definitely like a jeep, with its round headlamps and trademark vertically-slotted grille. The optional $480 chrome wheels improve its appearance. It's not the best-looking SUV around, granted. But it feels respected, and so do you when you're behind the wheel.
Of course, you'll pay dearly for your horsepower addiction; I averaged about 19.0 L/100 km during my week with the HEMI Grand Cherokee. Clearly, the term "fuel economy" does not apply here... "fuel guzzling" or "fuel waste" is better. Oh yeah, the engine is equipped with DaimlerChrysler's MDS system, which shuts down half the cylinders during light driving or highway cruising. There isn't a light or any indication that
The ride is on the soft side. This SUV is heavy, and feels heavy. The Grand Cherokee's handling limits don't seem to match its straight-line speed, so you will have to be careful when summoning the engine. The suspension is slightly stiffer than in the Commander, Jeep's new flagship, which feels like sitting on a seesaw. Generally, the GC drives well, although I prefer more nimble and lighter vehicles. Recent Articles
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