2007 Jeep Cherokee Review

Jeep's Grand Cherokee has a range of four engines for 2007, and four different models. The base Laredo comes with a 210-horsepower, 3.7L V6 engine, but a 235-horsepower, 4.7L V8 is optional. Next up is the Limited, which has the 4.7L V8 standard and a 330-horsepower, 5.7L "Hemi" V8 is optional. The V8 has the multi-displacement system (MDS), which helps improve fuel economy during light-load cruising or coasting. The most luxurious Overland upgrades to a standard 5.7L V8. All of these trims can be ordered with two- or four-wheel drive.

A 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 is optional on Limited and Overland models; the engine has 215 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque (more than the 5.7L V8) and returns fuel economy estimates of 19 city, 23 highway for a driving range of more than 400 miles. The 4.7L V8 now also allows the use of E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.

At the top of the Grand Cherokee range is the performance-oriented SRT-8 model, with a larger, 6.1L version of the Hemi V8 making 420 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The model includes Quadra-Trac, traction control, upgraded axles, a high-performance suspension, aluminum wheels, four-wheel perforated-disc brakes with anti-lock and brake assist, bright exhaust tips, fog lamps, and various appearance add-ons.

The Quadra-Trac I system is a full-time four-wheel drive system that's designed mainly for on-road use. It sends 52 percent of torque to the rear wheels normally and with an open differential can send more torque toward the wheels that need it for traction. Quadra-Trac II adds a two-speed active transfer case to the system for off-road situations. The most sophisticated system offered on the Grand Cherokee is the Quadra-Drive II system, which brings electronic limited-slip differentials (ELSD), along with a full-time active transfer case operated through an electronically controlled clutch pack. The system can automatically and instantly go from slip to lock independently in front or back, making it good for both on-road situations and serious off-roading.

The Grand Cherokee's suspension design, with a short/long-arm setup in front and five-link configuration in back, pairs with rack-and-pinion steering for good on-road performance without a compromise off-road.

The electronic stability program (ESP) is standard on all models, along with side-curtain air bags and a roll-detection system, and anti-lock brakes with brake assist. Traction control is standard on all four-wheel drive models.

The Grand Cherokee line extends from comfortable to downright luxurious. The base Laredo model comes with standard air conditioning, a power driver's seat, keyless entry, and a CD sound system, then the Limited also includes a sunroof, fog lamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a garage door opener, and a 276-watt, six-speaker Boston Acoustics sound system with six-disc changer and MP3 compatibility. The Overland adds even more, including chrome wheels, rear park assist, power-folding side mirrors, and a DVD-based navigation system with the Park View rear-view camera.

Top options include SmartBeam headlights, which automatically dim themselves, an off-road package, a remote start system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and adjustable pedals.
For 2007, the Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a number of equipment changes, and becomes the first full-size SUV in recent history to offer a diesel engine option. There's also a new FlexFuel-compatible version of the 4.7L V8 in the lineup this year.

Side-curtain air bags with a rollover detection system are now standard on the Grand Cherokee. Remote start is standard on Limited and Overland models. On the Laredo there are also two new option groups: Popular Equipment, and Sun and Sound.

Additionally, the taillight design has been revised, interior trims and finishes have been upgraded, and five new colors are offered for 2007. see less