2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee

For 2007, the Jeep Grand Cherokee receives new power and options. Side curtain airbags and three-flash lane change turn signals become standard equipment, while new optional items include Park Sense rear park assist, Park View rearview camera, and remote start. New exterior colours are Red Rock, Light Greystone, Mineral Grey, Steel Blue, and Jeep Green.

Two new engines are available: a 3.0-litre V6 common-rail direct injection turbodiesel, and a 4.7-litre Flex Fuel E85 V8 engine in place of the regular 4.7-litre of 2006.

The line-up now consists of five engines: the 3.0-litre V6 diesel, 3.7-litre V6, 4.7-litre V8, 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and the 6.1-litre Hemi V8 found in the SRT8 model. The new diesel is optional on all models except for the SRT8. Three four-wheel-drive systems are available: Quadra-Trac I, a single-speed transfer case that splits the torque 48/52 front to rear; the Quadra-Trac II, with a two-speed active transfer case; and Quadra-Drive II, which features a full-time transfer case with electronic limited-slip differentials which distribute torque to wheels with traction if wheel slip is detected.

The Grand Cherokee starts as the Laredo, which uses the V6 (the 4.7-litre is optional) and Quadra-Trac I, and includes 17-inch wheels, electronic stability program, air conditioning, tire pressure monitoring system, one-touch up/down windows, keyless entry, roof rack cross rails, cargo storage with water-resistant storage compartment, and CD with auxiliary input jack.

The Limited uses the 4.7-litre V8 (the 5.7-litre is optional) and Quadra-Trac II, and adds leather-faced seats, power-adjustable pedals with memory, rain-sensing wipers, leather-wrapped wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, four-way power passenger seat, six-CD/MP3 stereo, power sunroof and garage door opener.

The Overland uses the 5.7-litre V8 with Quadra-Drive II, and adds leather and wood steering wheel, side airbags, trailer tow group, two-tone ultra-suede and leather-trimmed seats, leather-wrapped centre console armrest and Overload logo embroidered on the seats.

The SRT8 features the 6.1-litre V8 with a unique transfer case designed to handle the extra torque, along with SRT-tuned suspension, lowered ride height, 20-inch aluminum wheels, four-piston performance Brembo brake calipers, unique front fascia, performance front seats, aluminum and carbon fibre-finish accents, and unique cluster with 300 km/hr speedometer.

The Grand Cherokee spans a wide range, appealing both to rugged outdoor fans and those who want to go wickedly fast. The turbodiesel is a great addition to this vehicle, giving it stump-pulling torque and the traditional long range of diesel. The V6 and smaller V8 lack the power of some of its rivals, though, and for all its exterior size, the Grand Cherokee is a relatively tight fit: fold the rear seat on both vehicles, and the Dodge Magnum wagon offers more cargo space.