The current-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee was
introduced over nine years ago and the model is showing its age despite a
number of updates including the addition of a Hellcat-powered variant. Fiat
Chrysler Automobiles recently announced it is planning to introduce a
redesigned Grand Cherokee by the end of 2022 and new details are starting to
emerge about the vehicle.
Speaking with Motor Authority at FCA’s Capital
Markets Day event last week, CEO Sergio Marchionne said the next Grand Cherokee
will ride on a modified version of the Giorgio platform that underpins the Alfa
Romeo Giulia and Stelvio.
While the Stelvio isn’t exactly Rubicon ready,
Marchionne said engineers have modified the platform to meet the needs of Jeep.
He didn’t elaborate but it seems reasonable to assume the platform has been
updated to ensure it can tackle more extreme conditions than the
performance-oriented Stelvio.
Little else is known about the model at this point
but FCA has already confirmed the next Grand Cherokee will be offered with
semi-autonomous driving technology and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The latter
variant may share its powertrain with the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan
which has a 3.6-liter V6 engine, two electric motors and a 16 kWh lithium-ion
battery pack. This setup enables the model to produce a combined output of 260
hp and travel up to 53.1 km on electricity alone.
Interestingly, Marchionne mentioned a “three-row
Grand Cherokee.” This suggests the mysterious “E-Segment 3-Row” from Jeep’s
five-year plan is simply a Grand Cherokee with an extra row of seats.
