This is a preliminary review because I really have not had a chance to drive my new Grand Cherokee enough to provide justice to its great attributes.
As said by others, my very first impression is WOW. This really is the most sophisticated trail-ready SUV in the world. I was quite convinced by the time the EcoDiesels were shipped, but I knew I had made the right decision after just ¼ mile of the test drive. So far, I am very impressed. My GC is a Limited with CRD, LUX2, ORA2, ATG, Granite exterior, black interior with 9/28 build date.
Vehicle condition as delivered (Jeep) – 9 / 10
The tailgate alignment is perfect, no issues what so ever. However, there are a couple of fit areas. The driver-side passenger door and the fuel door may need a slight adjustment, as they are not quite flush with body panels. There may also be an alignment issue on the front right hood and fender. These are very minor; I don’t expect an issue at all with adjustments. I have a couple of twisted window gaskets, which I will monitor.
I have found nothing to complain about with paint – no scratches or blemishes, nor have I found anything wrong with the interior – no noise or rattles. Overall, I am very very satisfied with the Jeep build. Thanks Chevy, Marlon, and the whole JNAP team.
Vehicle condition as delivered (Dealer) – 6 / 10
First, let me say that my dealer provided JG members excellent purchase deals and the Internet sales department is top notch. I think the make-ready services could have been better however. I was asked to inspect the vehicle before it had been detailed, making it difficult to inspect the paint condition effectively. The DEF tank was filled, but spilled in the fill compartment and down the side of the body and rear tire. ArmorAll was used on the tires after a request for its exclusion. The front tag bracket was left in the cargo area rather than installed. The RA4 radio was not upgraded to current version, rather I was told that the VIN indicated no update was needed. After a couple of trips back to make-ready, the appearance issues were corrected. No efforts were made to educate me on features and operation. I knew that I could upgrade the radio myself and I really did not need help with the features. However, it would have been nice to be asked.
Vehicle Design – 9.8 / 10
I have to say this again… WOW. There is not much I could change. The CRD offers the best of everything that Jeep has to offer. That sounds like the commercial, but this vehicle is that good! The diesel and 8-speed tranny combination is spectacular - smooth shifts in both directions, no clunks, no issues. All driving so far has been in ECO mode, I have not experimented with Sport mode yet.
Some may believe the seating is a bit firm and not plush enough, but the seating fits me very well. This is a daily driver for me, and I am more concerned about functionality and durability. I think the black leather was a good choice for me, but if I could have had the dark brown in a Limited, I would have gone that route. The heated seats will not get much use in Texas, but the ventilated seats are fantastic and already appreciated.
While I am still getting comfortable with the technology features, I cannot emphasize enough the value of the blind spot warning system available with the Advanced Technology Group. It is worth every penny. I have not yet mastered the adaptive cruise control, but I look forward to getting there soon. I didn’t think the exit/park suspension-lowering feature would be that useful, but it turns out to be a very appreciated feature. I have not activated it as an auto exit option as of yet.
If I have to say something negative about design, I would say it could use additional interior storage nooks, but that’s being very petty.
Uconnect – 9 / 10
My unit was delivered with 13.33.7 version software. On the way home, I received the “Vehicle Phone Needs Service” a couple of times. The message was on for only a few seconds, and no issues were evident with system usage. The following day, I upgraded to 13.38.52, and I have received the phone service messages a couple more times. I will give it 48 hours before re-installing again to see if the message goes away.
Other than the phone message, the Uconnect system has been very responsive; all items appear to work as designed. Music from SD and USB are spot on, however the radio volume seems to be lower than with media choices. The NAV system is super, it even pronounces a major street near me correctly (Fry instead of Fairy). The level of customization for both EVIC and Uconnect is incredible. If it were not for the phone service message, I would have given Uconnect 10/10.
Fuel Mileage – 9 / 10 additional data needed.
Unfortunately, my route home after delivery was in stop/go Houston traffic, no freeways. Even in that mess, I averaged 22.4 mpg – how cool is that! To test highway speed performance, I took a short 20-mile trip at 75 mph with cruise control in use most of the time. EVIC indicated 27.8 mpg. While not scientific, it certainly gives an indication of the incredible fuel mileage expected of this vehicle.
Epilog
In my opinion, Jeep has a HUGE hit with the Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel. I am so glad that I visited Jeep Garage and learned about this incredible vehicle, and I am even more excited to say that I own one. The journey to Jeep ownership took me from newbie questions to a walk through the JNAP facility, and finally having a Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel in my own garage.
I want to thank all of the Jeep Garage members who provided opinions and information along the way. A special thanks to all the “insiders”: Chevy, Marlon, Milous, Willx, and the others I don’t know as well, your insight was especially helpful with my first Jeep purchase. I joined as a lifetime member, and I look forward to staying in touch as we enjoy our Jeeps and encourage others to choose the EcoDiesel.