New Jeep Grand Cherokee L Revealed, Coming to SA

Jeep has unveiled its 7-seater Grand Cherokee, which brings an additional row of seating to an already spacious product.

Visually, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a little different to the standard 2-row model. With design cues straight from the mammoth Grand Wagoneer, it looks bold and imposing.

Inside, there's a smart-looking and luxurious cabin. There's an 8.4-inch touchscreen or an optional 10.1-inch touchscreen, with the FCA Group's UConnect 5 infotainment system fitted. There's also a 10.3-inch digital dashboard fitted. As far as trim levels go, there will be 4 derivatives for the American market.

In terms of engines, the Pentastar 3.6-litre V6 soldiers on, and in this application it develops 216 kW and 348 Nm. The engine we suspect most will go for is the 5.7-litre Hemi V8 which pumps out 266 kW and 528 Nm. Irrespective of engine, all Jeep Grand Cherokee Ls come with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Interestingly, 4-wheel drive is an optional extra, with the standard model going the 2-wheel drive route. If you're an offroad enthusiast, you'd be keen to hear about the new Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension that can raise the vehicle by 4 cm in Off-Road Mode 1 then with Off-Road Mode 2 engaged, go a further 6cm higher. There's also an Aero mode, which will lower the vehicle for on-road driving.

Will it come to South Africa? According to information we have received, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee 7-seater is scheduled to arrive in South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2021 along with the 5-seater version. We will keep you updated as and when we receive further details.

Having contributed to multiple motoring titles as well helping run the public relations machine of the Johannesburg International Motor Show, Dave has experience in both sides of the motoring industry. He's based in the Western Cape and has driven & photographed too many cars... he's still trying to remember them all.

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