Hybrid power takes Jeep in a new direction

Combining luxury and the brand’s off road prowess, with an eco-friendly and efficient powertrain, the new PHEV offering is priced from $110,850 plus on-roads. Available only with five seats, it features a somewhat sophisticated style to pretty much everything, both inside and out.

Ruggedly elegant, the 2024 Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve 4xe sports Jeep’s iconic seven-slot grille and adaptive LED headlights. There are subtle nods to its EV heart everywhere, with blue accents used to distinguish the 4xe from its conventionally powered counterparts.

Along with its bold design, 21-inch alloy wheels give the SUV a commanding presence on the road. The Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve 4xe is available in an Bright White (as tested), Diamond Black, Hydro Blue, Midnight Sky, Rocky Mountain, Baltic Grey, Velvet Red, and Silver Zynith.

Inside the cabin, there’s an array of premium materials, including leather upholstery, wood trim, and ambient lighting. Ample head and legroom means plenty of space for everyone, and the front seat occupants score heated and vented seating, with a massage function.

The rear seats can be easily folded to expand cargo space, and a panoramic sunroof makes for a sense of airiness. Window shades, USB-C and A ports, rear vents with climate controls, and even heated and cooled second row outboard seats complete the package.

The 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system dominates the central dash, providing access to the Uconnect-5 platform, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and navigation. Our test vehicle scored the Advanced Technology Group add-on.

This included a night vision camera, head-up display, wireless phone charging and a passenger 10.25-inch touchscreen, which allows them to alter the infotainment and navigation (something that could be fraught with danger, but is still cool).

A premium McIntosh 19-speaker audio system, complete with a subwoofer tucked away in the cargo area brought the beats, while a customisable digital instrument cluster enhances the driver’s control and visibility, combining practicality with a touch of high-tech flair.

Jeep has a smartphone app that allows you to remotely locate your vehicle, lock or unlock it, and check things like fuel, tyre pressures, and the odometer reading. Under the hood of the 4xe is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with an electric motor and a 17kWh lithium-ion battery.

The combination is good for 280kW of power and 637Nm of torque. It can be charged in a few hours at home, via a 3-phase wall box, or overnight with the standard cable. A compelling choice for eco-conscious consumers, it delivers 3.2-litres/100km in the fuel drain stakes (according to Jeep).

The reality is a little different with fuel efficiency closer to 8.5-litres/100km once you tap out the electric motor. It has a maximum braked towing capacity of 2,722kg, but a hefty kerb weight. An eAWD (electric all-wheel drive) system delivers off road capability when you need to tackle rugged terrain too.

Regenerative braking provides smooth and controlled deceleration, both on and off the black top. Behind the wheel, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve 4xe delivers an impressive driving experience, with the 8-speed torque converter automatic doing a good job of blending power and reliability.

Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension contributes to a smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections. Ride height is increased when off road, and lowered for highway cruising. With 276mm ground clearance, a 610mm wading depth, 28.2-degree approach and 28.4-degree departure angle, it’s plenty capable.

A range of drive modes (Electric, Hybrid, Sport) offer a balance between economy and performance. With a 5-star ANCAP safety rating comes a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.

There’s a 360-degree surround view system to support parking. Jeep has taken a leaf out of the books of rivals like Volvo as well, with the use of recycled materials in the cabin, helping the car maker contribute to a greener future. It can be powered up via a standard household outlet, or with a Level 2 charger.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve 4xe PHEV comes with 5-year or 100,000km warranty, and lifetime roadside assistance. You can find out more on the Jeep Australia website or from your local dealership.

This story first published on Exhaust Notes Australia.

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