Design
In describing the design of the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler uses words such as “refined,” “focused,” “muscular,” and “athletic.” The new Grand Cherokee’s design includes Jeep’s classic seven-slot grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel arches. The lower front fascia is removable for greater rock crawling capability, and the Limited and Overland models feature a large chromed appliqué on the front that showcases the available tow hooks. According to Chrysler, every surface of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is new and treated for aerodynamics, improving fuel efficiency and delivering a 7-percent improvement in aerodynamic drag compared with the current model.
Chrysler says that the new Grand Cherokee’s interior rivals that of its European competition, featuring “rich materials and elegant appointments,” as well as more room for both passengers and cargo. “Following in the footsteps of our all-new 2009 Dodge Ram, our all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is another proud graduate of our Advanced Interior Design Studio,” said Ralph Gilles, Vice President–Design. “We achieved a world-class interior by using fine materials and maintaining a laser-attention to details.”
The new Grand Cherokee’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. Chrysler says that 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 3 inches wider for improved handling and packaging. Larger front door openings and rear doors that open wider compared to the current model allow for better access to the interior.
An available fold-flat front-passenger seat provides improved cargo storage room on Laredo models, and for added passenger comfort, the rear seats of all Grand Cherokees recline 12 degrees. Cargo volume behind the second row measures an additional 6.8 cubic feet of room (36.3 cubic feet total) compared to the previous model. The rear cargo area includes a storage unit with a rechargeable flashlight as well as new-and-improved grocery hooks on both sides. The spare tire compartment includes removable dual storage bins for secure storage of muddy gear or other items.
