2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The entry-level 2011 Grand Cherokee 4x2 lists from $30,995 -- $495 less than the outgoing model.The launch of the new Grand Cherokee marks the first application of company's new, flexible fuel 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, which features Variable-Valve Timing, 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm.

The vehicle's 114.8-inch wheelbase is 5.3 inches longer than the model it replaces and contributes to an overall vehicle length that is 1.8 inches longer than the prior model. The longer wheelbase creates more interior room and gives passengers an additional 4 inches of rear-seat knee and leg room. The vehicle also is also 3 inches wider. The front doors have larger openings -- by about two inches in height and width -- while the rear doors open wider-- 78 degrees versus 67 degrees -- for improved access to the interior.

For added passenger comfort, rear seats recline 12 degrees. There's also a 12-degree forward angle to allow 24 degrees of variation. Cargo volume behind the second-row has increased by 6.8 cubic feet, to 36.3 cubic feet total. An available fold-flat front-passenger seat provides even more cargo storage room. An all-new power rear liftgate is available, controlled via the key fob.

Seventeen-inch wheels are standard and deliver off-road capability, while optional 18-inch and 20-inch wheels can be ordered.The standard UConnect Guardian will automatically call emergency services in the event of an accident. Other features include remote door unlocking, roadside assistance, a stolen vehicle locator, and an emergency call feature. UConnect Web mobile internet will also be on offer.

Standard safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with rough-road detection, and the four-wheel Brake Traction Control System (BTCS). Other safety features include full-length side-curtain air bags which extend protection to front and rear outboard passengers, seat-mounted side thorax air bags that enhance protection for the driver and front passenger and active head restraints which deploy in the event of a rear collision.