2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland: The Daddy of All Midsized SUVs

Highlights: Pricing for 2014 increases by $1,100 from the 2013 model. For the first time, a diesel is available, which is capable of achieving 30-mpg, according to the folks at Jeep.

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $48,985 (Base Grand Cherokee starts at $29,790)

Seating Capacity:  5

Standard Safety Features: airbags (front, side, rear, curtain); hillstart assist; ABS; daytime running lights;and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Equipment: 17-inch wheels; an 8-speed transmission; cloth seats; a leather wrapped steering wheel; LED tail lamps; a tilt/telescopic steering wheel; an overhead console; a capless fuel filler door; cargo tie-down loops; steering wheel mounted controls; automatic a/c with dual controls; a remote USB port; a remote SD card slot; and a remote keyless entry

Standard Audio: a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty:  5 years or 100,000 miles

Bluetooth Compatibility: Yes

Test Vehicle Standard Engine/Horsepower: 3.6-liter, 6-cylinder/290-horsepower

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage: 17-city/24-hwy

Trim Levels:

Laredo
Limited
Overland
Summit
SRT8

What’s New:  The Grand Cherokee has been refreshed for the model year. A diesel has been added to the line up for the 2014 model year, a fuel-efficient 8-speed transmission along with a host of high-tech safety features.

Pros: The Grand Cherokee is available in five trim levels with either a 6-cylinder gas engine, a 6-cylinder diesel engine or two 8-cylinder gasoline engines. The Grand Cherokee is available in either a rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive configuration.

The Grand Cherokee we reviewed was the upscale Overland model, which is a step-up from the Limited model. Our Overland was equipped with a rear back up camera, an electronic rear park assist system, a push-button keyless starter, ventilated front seats, front and rear heated seats, leather seats, power front seats, a heated leather-wood steering wheel, a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, paddle shifters, a 9-speaker audio system with a 1-year subscription to XM satellite, a dual panoramic roof, LED headlights and 20-inch wheels.

The 4-wheel drive system is what makes the Jeep standout with its signature Quadra-Trac system, which includes a two-speed case, a hill descent control and a Selec-Terrain system. This system allows one to choose from preprogrammed settings to handle any driving condition. Our Overland added a height suppension system, allowing one to lower the Jeep at the touch of a button.

Furthermore, our well-equipped Jeep was optioned-out with an Advanced Technology pakage, which consisted of a radar-cruise control system, a forward-warning collision system and a blind-spot lane-changing system with cross-path detection.

Finally, the 8-inch infotainment system is easy to use, whether using the nav system, the audio system, the ventilated seats or an app.

Cons: There were a few downsides to the Grand Cherokee. The 4x4 rode more like a truck which males sense, since its designed for off-road use. The leather seats were extremely too firm. The seats definitely aren't designed for a long road trip. Furthermore, the engineers should consider retuning the upgraded audio system, making sure the vehicle offers a crystal clear premium sound.

Verdict: While most automakers, including the popular Ford Explorer, have switched from a truck-based platform to a smooth-riding car-based platform, the Grand Cherokee has remained true and loyal to being a SUV. Its like a ‘Tom Boy’ in a sense. Its rough and tumble -- able to play or work on-or-off the road. Yet, it has a very stylish demeanor, wearing the latest features from the Bi-Xenon front headlights to the dual panoramic roof to the 20-inch aluminum wheels to the oversized user-friendly 8-inch infotainment screen. Yes, this Jeep is capable of doing it all, even if the ride and handling is too firm.  We are hoping that the 4x2 offers a smoother ride. Overall, in our eyes, this is one of the best SUVs on the market in terms of fit, finish, high-tech features, overall quality and the pricing. Despite a few quirks, this vehicle is high on our list, if you’re looking for a do-it-all, stylish five seater SUV. And unlike car-based crossovers, this vehicle is able to tow, too!

Competition: Land Rover LR2 and Toyota 4Runner