2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Test Drive

Grand Standing

Jeep catches up with its competitors with the totally redone Grand Cherokee.

From The Driver's Seat

Pickup is definitely one of the Hemi-powered Grand Cherokee's strong suits. Ride and handling are also much improved from earlier generations. Though this is still a truck, Chrysler engineers should be commended for how the new Jeep handles so much like a conventional sedan. For the 2005 Grand Cherokee, DaimlerChrysler switched to rack-and-pinion steering instead of the recirculating ball-steering system used in first-two generations. The Jeep's brakes are adequate, but it wouldn't hurt if they were a bit more aggressive, considering how easily the Hemi can get the vehicle up to warp speed.

One reason for the improvement in handling is the switch from a solid front axle to a modern, independent suspension. Chrysler claims that the new setup, which allows a 10% increase in wheel travel, delivers better off-road capabilities. Unlike some competitors -- such as the latest-generation Ford Explorer -- the Grand Cherokee sticks with a live rear axle instead of an independent rear suspension. Scott Brown , a DaimlerChrysler spokesperson, argues that the traditional rear suspension is better suited for heavy loads and towing. "With independent rear suspensions, the wheels tend to bow in under load," says Brown.

Despite its hulked-up physique, the newer Grand Cherokee seems a bit tight in the passenger compartment, even though in most dimensions the new Jeep is a smidge bigger than the one it replaces. But, buyers who have any notion of carrying three passengers in back should steer clear of the video-entertainment system, because its protrusion from the rear of the center console essentially eliminates useful leg space from the center position. Adults sitting on the rear outboard seats may also find that the low-seat/high-floor combination puts their knees in a less-than-ideal position.

Interior materials and fit and finish move this Jeep up the food chain from its predecessor. Our tester had darker-gray high-quality-plastic material on the top of the dash and lighter-gray below. Tactile feel of switches seems higher than what one normally gets on vehicles built in Detroit. The steering wheel has cruise control on the front and radio controls on the back, and a manual tilt -- although the steering column doesn't telescope. The A-pillar in the new Grand Cherokee seems raked at a sharper angle than in earlier versions, and also appears to be a tad thicker, which somewhat obstructs front visibility.

One neat feature in the cargo area is a section of the floor that is reversible, with one side carpeted and the other a low-walled tray with a protective-rubber coating. This isn't a perfect substitute for a full mat, but should come in handy for bringing home plants and bags of topsoil from the local nursery.