Competition
The 2009 Grand Cherokee is about to arrive, but the CRD models will still be badged as 2008s. Base price for the Laredo is $40,995, and this test model includes the CRD package ($4,100), the X Package ($3,320), the sunroof ($1,175), the North Package ($260) and Quadra-Drive II ($750), for a total of $50,600.

However, the X Package and sunroof are mandatory when choosing turbo diesel engine, which means the minimum one must pay for a CRD is $49,490.

A Jeep isn't a Jeep if you can't go off-road, and when this is where you want to go, the CRD delivers.

There are many other upscale SUVs that rival the Grand Cherokee and that have true 4-wheel drive systems:

• Chevrolet TrailBlazer LT1, 285 hp, $39,795
• Ford Explorer XLT, 210 hp, $41,399
• GMC Envoy SLE, 285 hp, $40,695
• Land Rover LR3 V6 SE, 216 hp, $53,900
• Nissan Pathfinder S V6, 266 hp, $38,298
• Toyota 4Runner SR5 V6, 236 hp, $38,560

The list grows much longer if you include all those that have all-wheel drive systems that don't require driver intervention but are basically less capable off-road. Not one offers a diesel engine choice, and Lexus offers a $53,650 hybrid RX 400h.

Conclusion
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is very American, a well-equipped SUV that offers a soft ride on-road and hardcore capability off-road. Most of its competition has better-looking interiors, but that all boils down to a question of taste.

As for the CRD engine, well, if you're an urbanite, it makes perfect sense. It delivers decent fuel economy around town, it can haul a heavy trailer and performs pretty well. Jeep should just drop the old 3.7-litre V6 and offer the diesel as the base engine, and make it a little more affordable.


Photo Credit : Matthieu Lambert