2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Eco Diesel | First Drive

When it comes to supreme off-road performance, look no further than a Jeep.  No seriously!  With half a century’s worth of mud-grinding experience coupled with the primary vehicle used for every US military service, the accumulated lessons learned helped bring out one of the best off-road vehicles ever built.  But that’s enough with the pep talk and let’s get down to true matters.  The 2014 Grand Cherokee is a 5-passenger Sports Utility Vehicle promised to deliver exceptional off-road performance with all the expected luxury bells and whistles.

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Eco Diesel

As one of the plethora of purchase options, the diesel power train configuration upgrade offers a double edged sword of improvements in upgraded power output and fuel efficiency.  When it comes to power output in the 4×4 realm, torque matters over horsepower and that’s exactly what the diesel power train option offers.  Under the hood of the Grand Cherokee Eco Diesel lies a meaty 3.0 liter diesel engine producing 240 horsepower and a staggering 420 ft.lbs of torque.  More power with fewer dollars at the pump, the Grand Cherokee Eco Diesel scores very respectable numbers in fuel economy at 21/28 mpg city and highway driving respectively.  To put these numbers into perspective, that is a 5 mpg improvement over the conventional gasoline engine configuration.

We’ve often seen cases of auto manufactures covering up big horsepower numbers over ride quality.  But in the case of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Eco Diesel, we were extremely pleased with the smoothness of the diesel power train.  Acceleration and highway driving was smooth and well composed while the interior cabin space shelters out even the most intricate vibration and road noise.

Styling and Features

In terms of trim level, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers four choices – Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit.  All four trim levels share the sacred Jeep elements namely the 7 bar hexagonal front grille, tapered arch rims, LED headlights, rear spoiler and enlarged tail lamps.  Our tested Summit model offers a substantial flare of cosmetic upgrades.  Top of the line Summit model employs chrome mesh grilles, enlarged front bumper, chrome plated body-side inserts, rectangular exhaust tips and polished 20″ rims.

Jeep has definitely been busy keeping up to date with its gizmos.  Some of the key technological features unique to the Grand Chrokee include a customizable 7″ LCD instrument panel cluster, short-throw shift by wire, 8.4″ infotainment screen and a record 19-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system.  In terms of mechanical gadgets, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a Quadra-Lift air suspension capable of elevating its vehicle height by up to 4.1″.  Accompanied by its dynamic suspension is its Select Terain system allowing you to select one of twelve different terrain configurations.  Coupled to the engine is an 8 speed automatic transmission where Jeep claims that it can shift within one fifth of a second.

Interior arrangements appoints both quality and aesthetics.  Interior panels and seats are bordered with premium leather material while it’s front dashboard is accompanied by a tranquil chocolate wooden grain.  We were also pleased by the ergonomic design with all climate and audio controls easily and ergonomically accessible.  Front passengers will enjoy a plethora of leg room while its seats provide comfort and freedom.  Rear seats could use a little more leg room, but ultimately, you won’t hear much complains from full-size passengers even for long trips.

Metrics

Numbers is where the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s heart and sole lies.  Powertrain configuration branches out into three flavors including a 3.6L V6 engine, 5.8L V8 engine and  an exclusive 3.0L diesel engine.  Strictly speaking of the 3.0L Eco diesel engine, power specifications speaks 240 horsepower and 420 ft.lbs of torque.  While horsepower numbers remain the least out of the three configurations, the torque more than compensates with a boosted output of 160 and 30 ft.lbs of torque more than the V6 and V8 gasoline engine configurations respectively.  In addition to the amplified torque delivery, buyers who opted for the Eco-diesel powertrain will enjoy fuel costs saving with EPA ratings of up to at 29/40 mpg for city and highway driving.  Jeep also prides itself with its best-in-class ratings in the categories of 4×4 fuel economy, 7,200 lbs towing and 4×4 trail-rated capabilities.

 

Driving Impressions and Final Thoughts

While Diesel engines still remain a hazy subject in the consumer realm, the EcoDiesel engine doesn’t differ much from a conventional gasoline burning factory other than the gurgling idle engine noise.  With the extra torque, the Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel accelerates seamlessly at low speeds and minimal struggle with lane changes and freeway entry.  Road-hugging performance still trails behind some of its German rivals, but without a doubt, the Jeep Grand Cherokee wins hands down when it comes to off-road capability.  But ultimately, one of the key quality features is the buttery gear shifts with its 8 speed transmission and incredibly smooth and quiet ride on highways.

As pleasing as the EcoDiesel upgrade sounds, it will unfortunately set you back at a hefty price tag of an additional 5,000$.  The EcoDiesel will save you a few bucks at the pump, but you do have to drive a lot to make up for it.  For buyers that want to spend less, the EcoDiesel engine is also available in the lower Overland model for roughly 3,000$ less.

Speaking of dollars, the Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel is not cheap.  With all said and done, our tested Summit model priced in at 63,426$.  That is a premium figure even in the luxury segment.  Not to say that the Grand Cherokee doesn’t live up to its price tag though.  The 2014 Grand Cherokee boasts top notch interior quality, exquisite exterior styling, and superior ride quality in both comfort and off-road capability.  With that being said, there is an overwhelming set of features you’re paying for, and perhaps a bit too much to truly exploit all its key features.  Nevertheless, the 2014 Grand Cherokee is an awesome vehicle for the dual purpose daily commute and off-road adrenaline junkie, or for bragging rights.