Jeep is launching its Grand Cherokee L SUV in New Zealand next month, while a plug-in hybrid three-row model is expected to arrive later this year.
The L is Jeep’s three-row Cherokee. It’s marketed towards people who need or use a standard Cherokee and want to carry more passengers without upgrading to a full-sized Wagoneer.
That, and Jeep’s current-spec Wagoneer doesn’t come in right-hand-drive, leaving the Cherokee L as the most affordable option.
Jeep’s first New Zealand models will be here in May. Pricing starts at $99,990.
‘Starts’ is important here. There are three trim levels of L on their way. The cheapest is the Night Eagle, the middle is the Limited, and the top-of-the-range is the Summit Reserve.
All three have identical powertrains, highlighted by a 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine. The motor is good enough for 210kW of power and 344Nm of torque.
The prices of the three versions are:
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Night Eagle | $99,990 |
| Limited | $104,990 |
| Summit Reserve | $134,990 |
The only distinctive differences between all three trims concern technical bits and bobs. Basically, you can nail it down to the higher and pricier the model, the larger the touchscreen.
Legroom is a significant factor in deciding what seven-seater is worth your money. The Cherokee L ticks the boxes in this department, giving plenty of space for the second and third rows.
Jeep currently has a plug-in hybrid model sold overseas. New Zealand is confirmed to be receiving the two-row PHEV sometime this year. Details about this are still shady, and Jeep will reveal more later.
A fully electric Jeep 4xe will be offered in every SUV segment by 2025.
