If
there is one company that knows about going off-road, it's Jeep. And its 2003
Grand Cherokee is a fine example of all it has learned about the properties of
dirt since it first started making off-roaders in the Forties. With its any of
its three well-bred four-wheel drive systems and generous ground clearance, the
Grand Cherokee can pretty much guarantee that you'll get through the thick stuff
with little problem. Now
how about the on-road experience? Well, in truth, it doesn't get down the road
quite as well as some of its peers, particularly the car-based SUVs that are becoming
more and more prominent these days. Its bumpy ride quality and somewhat heavy
feel don't inspire a whole lotta cornering confidence, and as for fuel economy,
well, let's not go there (although curiously, the optional, powerful V-8s don't
guzzle much more gas than the standard V-6). That
said, many people have owned Grand Cherokees and come back for more. Can it be
that there is some cache in owning an SUV built by one of the world's most credentialed
off-road brands? There certainly is. The GC is also handsomely styled, with proportions
and features that look as good today as when we first met this version back in
'99 (can it be that long?). Prices start in the upper $20K range for a V-6 Laredo,
which comes standard with such niceties as a CD player, a/c, ABS brakes and a
full-size spare. The Limited adds lots of luxury extras, rising in price accordingly
into the mid Thirties. The top-shelf model is the Overland, which is very comfy,
with its leather/suede seats, luscious wood trim and 260-hp V-8. Best
part is that the older the design, the more willing dealers are to make concessions
to get you into one. So, given how competitive the SUV scene has become, don't
think that the sticker price is what you're gonna pay-you may end up with an irresistible
SUV deal that you may not be able to match at the Honda or Toyota dealer. Just
a thought. |