Transcript: Car Comment - Jeep Grand Cherokee
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"Car Comment" by
Next Car's Stephen Walker during the
"Road Ramblings" radio programme in
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Car Comment
Broadcast date: 11th June, 2011
***** START *****
Chrysler Group, currently celebrating 70 years of Jeep,
is on the right track towards financial stability following a disastrous period under a former
ownership arrangement. The company experienced extreme financial difficulties during the recent
American-led "Global Financial Crisis". But that is all history now.
One new product from the emerging giant is the new Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is bound to strengthen
both the Jeep brand and the Chrysler company itself, as it is obvious that this new product has
considerable thought behind its design. Importantly, so too is the quality of its manufacture.
Our drive of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo covered 211 kilometres of suburban driving. But our
mistake with this car was simple ... we should have driven it much more so we could enjoy even more
so.
The Laredo is the base model in the Grand Cherokee line-up. Two other trim levels exist, namely
Limited and Overland.
The manufacturer's list price for the new Jeep Grand Cherokee begins at just $45,000 which is
excellent value when you consider the driveability, size and quality of this US-sourced vehicle.
The test "car" was equipped with the new 3.6 litre petrol-fuelled V6, which was matched to the
standard five-speed automatic transmission. This proved to be a good combination. In other versions,
a V8 engine is available and, importantly, a diesel engine will be available soon.
On the road, the driving qualities of this new model were immediately evident. The ride was quiet
and smooth, closer to soft than firm. This proved to be perfect for on-road driving. Additionally, we
found the Jeep easy to manoeuvre and parking it was easy, aided by a rear-view camera.
Entry and egress was very convenient with this new model. In fact the Grand Cherokee is amongst
the best for this important aspect of usability.
Whilst many people dislike 4x4s, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, because of its delightful road manners,
has the capacity to attract respect. Although we failed, on this occasion, to take it off-road, we
found it to be an excellent vehicle for on-road use.
***** END *****
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