Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0 V6 CRD Summit first drive

It's the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee, revised with new technology, improved performance and cosmetic changes both inside and out.  

Most significant among the tweaks to this luxury SUV is the installation of the Chrysler Group's new ZF-derived eight-speed automatic transmission, which is available across the entire engine line-up.

The new transmission, says Jeep, reduces consumption and emissions while improving acceleration and gear-shifts. It's something the Grand Cherokee had been crying out for to replace the prehistoric five-speed auto.

The UK range ignores the petrol V6 and V8 engines and focuses solely on the 3.0-litre V6 diesel (apart, that is, from the monstrously powerful 6.4-litre Grand Cherokee SRT halo model, of which only about 20 will be sold here).

This new Grand Cherokee also gets an Eco Mode which optimises gear-shifts, although it can be disengaged if more sporty performance is desired. 

The economy-driven changes help the claimed fuel economy to increase by about ten per cent to 37.7mpg, with the attendant fall in CO2 emissions meaning the Grand Cherokee now dips below 200g/km, putting it on a more competitive footing with rivals such as the 3.0-litre V6 variants of the Volkswagen Touareg and BMW X5.

As for the styling changes, at the front the Grand Cherokee features a shorter upper grille, slimmer headlights, more pronounced fog lights and a front fascia that's been slightly elevated.

The rear end boasts larger tail lamps with LED lighting, a larger and more aerodynamic rear spoiler and a re-sculpted tailgate that offers greater rear-ward visibility.

In the UK the new Grand Cherokee will be offered in five trim levels, with the entry-level Laredo variant being followed by Limited, Limited Plus, Overland and Summit. 

Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit each features mild styling variations to distinguish them, and the higher-specification cars get Jeep's more sophisticated four-wheel-drive system and air suspension. 

Limited Plus is a UK specific level that adds extra toys such as satnav and 20in alloys to the Limited trim. It is expected to be the biggest seller in the UK range.

Although UK prices are still being finalised, it is expected that the range will start at about £37,000 and rise to just under £50,000 for top-of-the-range editions. Right-hand-drive cars will reach the UK in the middle of July. 

Appreciation of styling is subjective, but to our eyes, the minor exterior styling changes work much more effectively in the metal than they do in pictures. The new Grand Cherokee remains unmistakably Jeep, but the refresh has softened off some of the bluff edges enough to give the large SUV a touch more Euro-centric appeal.   

Like the outside of the outside Grand Cherokee, the cabin has benefited from a mild makeover and features some higher quality materials. Three rear passengers won't be left wanting for leg, shoulder or head room, and there's a 782-litre boot space with the rear seats in place.

One of the stand-out features in the cabin is a new infotainment and multimedia system, which is controlled via a modern-looking 8.4in touchscreen.