With its rear seat folded flat, the Grand Cherokee can carry 1,909 litres (67.4 cubic feet) of cargo to the remotest of locations,

With its rear seat folded flat, the Grand Cherokee can carry 1,909 litres (67.4 cubic feet) of cargo. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

yet can be easily parked in the same space length-wise as a Honda Accord Coupe. Unfortunately, passenger carrying capacity in the Grand Cherokee is limited to five, and will remain so despite the growing popularity of 7-occupant SUVs. Jeep will introduce a new model next year, called the Commander, designed for larger families needing the advantages of a third-row seat. My Inferno Red Grand Cherokee tester was finished inside in a two-tone theme of neutral and slate hued grays. Imitation wood accents highlighted the centre console and door pulls. DaimlerChrysler claims to have adopted a number of Toyota-derived production line techniques to improve the interior build quality of the Grand Cherokee, and it shows.

Fit-and-finish is tight and accurate. Most surfaces convey a durable, yet

The cabin of the 2005 Grand Cherokee is very hospitable and far more attractive than last year's version. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

high-quality feel - although the dash is primarily composed of hard plastic finished with a grainy surface. Despite the plastic, the cabin of the Grand Cherokee is very hospitable and far more attractive than last year's version. Worthy of note is the non-obscured gauge cluster. It sits directly ahead of the driver and is comprised of a large circular speedometer twinned by a matching tachometer. Flanking the left is a smaller-size circular fuel gauge, and flanking the right is a matching engine temperature gauge. Chrome bezels surrounding each of the gauges add an elegant appearance to the instrument panel.