Jeep Cherokee Diesel

The Jeep Grand Cherokee, now in its fifth generation and locally assembled in India, is a formidable luxury SUV that combines handsome looks with robust off-road capabilities. Powered by a 2.0L, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 272 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, it is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and features Jeeps Quadra-Trac I 4WD system. The SUV boasts a spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom, although the rear seat could be more spacious. It comes loaded with premium features like heated and ventilated front seats, multiple touchscreen displays, and a comprehensive safety kit including ADAS technology. The ride quality is impressive, especially over broken tarmac, making it a comfortable choice for both on-road and off-road adventures. Despite some drawbacks, such as the lack of a diesel engine option and less-than-premium interior materials, the Grand Cherokee remains a compelling choice for those seeking a rugged yet luxurious SUV.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel, although not the current offering in India, would have been a compelling package if it were available. My experience with the diesel variant in the past has shown that it offers a more balanced blend of power and efficiency compared to the current 2.0L turbo-petrol engine. However, the lack of a diesel option in the current lineup is a significant drawback for heavy users. If a diesel engine were available, it would have provided the extra torque and better fuel economy that many Indian buyers crave. Despite this, the Grand Cherokees robust build quality, premium features, and impressive off-road capabilities make it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel engine is no longer an option for the 2024 models, as Jeep has decided to phase out diesel and V8 engines from its lineup. This move aligns with the companys shift towards more efficient and electrified powertrains. I think this is a significant change that might disappoint some loyal diesel fans.

Jeep has confirmed that the diesel engine, which was once a popular choice for the Grand Cherokee, will not be available in the new generation. Instead, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and the 4xe plug-in hybrid are the primary powertrain options. I believe this transition reflects the industrys broader trend towards electrification.

The absence of the diesel engine in the new Jeep Grand Cherokee has raised concerns among those who valued its towing capacity and fuel efficiency. The 4xe plug-in hybrid, while powerful, does not quite match the diesels capabilities in heavy-duty towing. I think Jeep needs to address these concerns to retain its loyal customer base.

In India, the lack of a diesel option for the Jeep Grand Cherokee might impact its appeal, given the countrys preference for diesel engines in larger vehicles. The 3.6-liter V6, though reliable, may not offer the same level of fuel efficiency and torque as the diesel. I believe this could be a deciding factor for many potential buyers.

Jeeps decision to drop the diesel engine is part of a larger strategy to meet stricter emissions regulations and to focus on more environmentally friendly options. While this is a positive step, it leaves a gap for those who relied on the diesels performance. I think its a necessary step, but it will take some getting used to.

The current Jeep Grand Cherokee, which is only available with a 2.0L turbo-petrol engine, is priced at Rs 77.50 lakh ex-showroom in India. When you factor in the on-road costs, including taxes and other charges, the price can easily exceed Rs 90 lakh. While this is competitive against its European rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, and BMW X5, it still represents a significant investment. However, considering the vehicles local assembly, the pricing is more palatable than its predecessor, making it a more viable option for those seeking a luxury off-road SUV.

The mileage of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, with its 2.0L turbo-petrol engine, is not its strongest suit. Given its heavy weight and automatic transmission, you can expect fuel economy numbers in the range of 4-6 kml. This is due to the engines thirstiness and the vehicles size. While the idling start-stop system helps save some fuel, its clear that this SUV is not designed for frugal driving. If mileage is a top priority, you might want to consider other options, but if you value its other attributes, this might be a trade-off youre willing to make.