2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is All Jazzed Up and Electrified

Published on September 29, 2021 in New Models by Guillaume Rivard

The fifth-generation 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was finally unveiled today, more specifically the two-row variant that will join the equally new, three-row Grand Cherokee L.

Offering more content, luxury and technology than ever, the 2022 Grand Cherokee will arrive in dealerships by the end of 2021. The Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid will follow early in 2022.

Electrified Old Jeep

Let’s start with this model, which is arguably the biggest news. Hot on the heels of the Wrangler 4xe, the Grand Cherokee 4xe combines a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with a pair of electric motors to generate a total of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque.

A 17-kWh battery makes it possible to travel an estimated 40 kilometres on pure electric power. Drivers can preserve battery capacity for a later use if they so choose using eSave mode. Jeep’s excellent Quadra Trac II 4x4 system is part of the mix. Towing capacity is rated at 2,720 kilos (6,000 pounds).

The 4xe powertrain is available on Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit and Summit Reserve trim levels. By the way, all high-voltage electronics are sealed and waterproof, meaning the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is capable of water fording up to 61 centimetres. Also notable is the fact that the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe conquered the formidable Rubicon Trail and did so under all-electric power.

Proven Power and Capability

Naturally, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee retains both the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 (293 horsepower, 260 pound-feet of torque) and the signature 5.7-litre HEMI V8 (357 horsepower, 390 pound-feet of torque). These proven performers allow towing up to 2,812 kilos (6,200 pounds) and 3,265 kilos (7,200 pounds), respectively, something no direct competitor can brag about. Each one is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The same three 4x4 systems are back (Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II) along with the class-exclusive Quadra-Lift air suspension (enabling increased ground clearance up to 11.3 inches) and Selec-Terrain traction management system (with Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow and Mud/Sand modes).

New for 2022 is front axle disconnect. If the vehicle senses that road conditions don’t require all-wheel drive, the system automatically places the Grand Cherokee in two-wheel drive, reducing drag on the driveline and improving fuel economy. Four-wheel drive automatically re-engages when the vehicle senses it’s needed.

Classy and Sophisticated

Completely redesigned, yet still unmistakable, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee draws inspiration from the larger Grand Cherokee L, Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer to a certain extent, but the proportions are more balanced and attractive.

Thanks to an all-new architecture, it’s also lighter and more solid than its predecessors, while the lowered profile makes it more aerodynamic. A gloss black roof is available for the first time on Overland models and comes standard on Trailhawk, Summit and Summit Reserve.

Inside, the more refined and high-tech cabin features a 10.1-inch centre touchscreen powered by the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, as well as a segment-first available 10.25-inch front passenger interactive display and a new high-definition rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon FireTV. Oh, and there’s a 10.1-inch digital instrument cluster and head-up display, too.

Cabin volume has increased 116 litres, while the 1,067-litre trunk represents an improvement of 40 litres. You’ll find more storage up front, where the controls are revised and the new seats offer up to 16-way power adjustments. Palermo leather and a 950-watt, 19-speaker McIntosh audio system in Summit Reserve trim make it the most luxurious Grand Cherokee ever.

As for safety, 360-degree surround view and night vision cameras are newly available. So is Active Drive Assist, but it’s a hands-on-wheel and eyes-on-road automated driving system, so don’t get too excited. Driver attention can be monitored at all times.

Pricing for the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee starts at $51,545 and goes all the way up to $81,535, excluding $2,095 destination charge. The Grand Cherokee 4xe ranges from $74,995-$88,995.