2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review discusses a true classic.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review

The Grand Cherokee a midsize SUV that debuted in 1992. It was the first in its class to have a V8. The second generation debuted in 1999, and the third followed in 2005. Recently, the V8 engine has flex-fuel capacity and the diesel V6 is available on multiple trims. While the Grand Cherokee has evolved to provide a more luxurious experience, it's still the most rugged in its class, as capable off the road as it is on it.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is an American icon. It helped define the SUV in its formative years and continues to offer a superior off-road experience. However, it's held back by a cramped interior, poor fuel efficiency, and spotty reliability history. If you need to go off-road, it's a great choice, but there are better general-purpose options out there.

What's New For 2008:

The exterior has a few softer touches, and the engine has been upgraded to 305 horsepower. The interior has been reworked with softer materials, and a telescoping steering wheel. New options include hill assist and trailer sway control.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

The Grand Cherokee earned 3 stars in J.D. Power's dependability survey. Problems with the last generation included engine misfires, fuel odors, hard starting, oil leaks, shaking and noise. It was recalled 16 times. Problems with the current model include failed remote starters, transmission leaks, and air conditioner noise. It's been recalled twice for brake lockup and possible fires. Expect average to below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Grand Cherokee earned 5 stars in government crash tests. In IIHS tests, it received "Good" for the front and rear, and "Marginal" for the side. Anti-lock brakes, side airbags, a rollover detector and stability control come standard. Trailer sway control is standard on the Overland, but is otherwise optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Strong off-road vehicle
+ Much improved interior
+ Diesel and flex-fuel engines available

Cons
- Cramped interior
- Rough for everyday driving
- Engines are thirstier than average

Head-To-Head Competition:

The GMC Yukon SLE-1 has a V8 with over 80 more hp, traction control, and can tow more, but costs about $6,500 more. The Mitsubishi Endeavor costs a few hundred more, but has traction control, a CD changer, leather and can tow more. The Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer edition costs about the same, but includes leather.

What Others Are Saying:

"Jeep catches up with its competitors with the totally redone Grand Cherokee." - Forbes

"The SRT8 puts up big numbers, but it's like a hockey goon - all brute strength and no finesse. Those heavy brakes, wheels and rear axle thud crudely over bumps. Directional changes are effected with all the lithesome agility of a sinking tugboat. But when you point it straight and bury the throttle, you experience Porsche Cayenne Turbo performance for about half the money." - The New York Times

"On the downside, brake-pedal response is a bit too quick and brings more nose dip than you might expect. As to other trade-offs, actual payload capacity is only 750 pounds--200 less than a suzuki aerio. And with those center pipes, we'd recommend high-temp synthetic grease on your towing hardware. The missing 'HEMI' badge is a Jeep thing, but we bet "trail rated" was left off on purpose." - Truck Trend

Read more about the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee at the Jeep manufacturer web site.

Published on Monday, February 25, 2008 - Email to a friend

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