In a surprise move by Chrysler Group, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which debuted at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, has received a facelift, considering the current generation just came out in 2011.
The new front fascia looks more aggressive now. The front headlamps have been made thinner with new repositioned fog lamps in the reshaped bumper, and the grille has been slightly changed. Bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights will be found in the higher models. LEDs have been added to the tail-lights as well.
The interior has also been slightly modified with a new three-spoke steering wheel and a configurable 7-inch screen in the middle of the gauge cluster. The center console with the 8.4-inch UConnect system has also been redone slightly to make it more user-friendly. A new gearshift selector has been added as well. The leather quality of the upholstery has improved and there will be more choice of colors in the higher models.
As for the performance model, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 received similar changes to the front fascia such as thinner headlights and a revamped front grille. It also gets a new design rear spoiler. Ironically, it is now harder to tell the difference between the regular Grand Cherokee and the SRT8.
Performance-wise, the 2014 Grand Cherokee will receive the 8-speed transmission in all their engines, including the performance oriented 6.4L V8 powered SRT model. Chrysler claims this will improve fuel economy by as much as 5% in the 3.6L V6 and 5.7L V8 engine. As for the SRT8, it could result in faster acceleration times, though not by a lot.
