Jeep Grand Cherokee - Taking on the 4X4 Giants

Jeep Grand Cherokee - Taking on the 4X4 Giants


In the ever-increasing world of choice that the 4X4 market has morphed into, it is often extremely difficult to choose the right model for you and your specific needs. While arguably the majority of this market share belongs to Land Rover, there are certain manufacturers who have become synonymous with producing quality off road vehicles. None more so than Jeep.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.1 V8 SRT-8 is a hugely popular model from the company which practically invented off-road driving. Jeep fell behind in the 4X4 race as they seemed to misinterpret what the average 4X4 would be used for on our roads. The Jeep canon was a bit rough-hewn and a little unrefined for the British tastes and Land Rover capitalised by transforming themselves into a privilege brand. What Jeep didn't realise is that 4X4s aren't really used in the fields anymore, they are almost exclusively utilised in the school run. Young mums want to drive their children to school in relaxing, comfortable and smart-looking vehicles, not a 4X4 that looks like Action Man once resided within. This is why Jeep's new Grand Cherokee is a breath of fresh air.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has redressed the balance by being every bit as refined and stylish as their Land Rover cousins. The 6.1 V8 is one of the most aggressive engines I have experienced outside of sports cars and any worries about the bulkiness of the vehicle are immediate discounted when you realise what this V8 is capable of.

The interiors are plush and inviting; in many ways an imperfect place to house snotty, noisy children, but every bit as suitable as the Land Rover. In spirit, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.1 V8 SRT-8 is craving the freedom of off-roading and has the engine to cope with it, but the realisation that it may never travel beyond suburbia it is a viable alternative to any Land Rover model.