Recently spotted undergoing testing,
the 2021 Grand Cherokee is heavily disguised but appears to have a sweptback
grille which is mounted above a wide lower air intake. Much the design is covered by bulky padding, but we
can see a flatter roof and a longer wheelbase which should create a more
accommodating interior. Other notable highlights include an angular rear window
and a slightly longer rear overhang. Reports have suggested it could ride on a modified version of Alfa Romeo’s
Giorgio platform. That remains unconfirmed, but the photos clearly show an
independent rear suspension.
Engine options are also unconfirmed, but Jeep has
already said there will be a plug-in hybrid variant. The company also revealed
plants that build the next-generation Grand Cherokee will have the “flexibility
to build fully battery-electric models in the future.” That being said, FCA’s
latest five year plan didn’t indicate a Grand Cherokee EV was in the works.
The entry-level engine is expected to an updated
version of the company’s familiar 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. There’s no word on
performance specifications, but the current engine develops 295 hp and 352 Nm of torque. There could also be a new
turbocharged inline-six that features mild-hybrid technology. Less is known
about this particular mill, but it’s rumored to be more fuel efficient than the
5.7-liter HEMI V8 while also delivering similar performance specs. If that’s
the case, we can expect an output of roughly 360 hp and 520 Nm of torque.
Regardless of what’s under the hood, Jeep has
already confirmed the next Grand Cherokee will have connected technologies and
a Level 3 semi-autonomous driving system. The three-row model is slated to go into production
in late 2020, while the Grand Cherokee will follow shortly thereafter in the
first half of 2021.
