TechSpec: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The newly redesigned 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee (known as the WK2 model internally) is the fourth generation of Chrysler’s popular SUV, following the ZJ model (1993-1998, the WJ model (1999-2004) and the first WK model (2005-2010). Built on an all-new steel uniframe, the Grand Cherokee offers new levels of amenities while remaining the Jeep brand’s characteristic off-road prowess.
The Grand Cherokee is available in four trim levels: Laredo, Laredo X, Limited and Overland. All models come standard with Chrysler’s new “Pentastar” 3.6L V6 engine, a mill that pumps out 290 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels (on two-wheel-drive models) via a W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission. A 5.7L V8 (carried over from the previous generation) is a $1,495 option on Laredo X, Limited and Overland models. This bigger engine pumps out 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, and is paired with a 545RFE “multi-speed” five-speed automatic transmission (essentially a normal four-speed transmission with an extra overdrive fifth gear). 
On two-wheel-drive models, the V6 engine is rated at 16 miles per gallon city and 23 highway, while four-wheel-drive models with the V6 are rated at 16 mpg city and 22 highway. Two-wheel-drive models with the optional V8 are rated at 14 mpg city and 20 highway, while four-wheel-drive models raid the gas pump at a 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway clip.
The base 2WD Laredo starts at $30,995, with Chrysler’s Quadra-Trac I 4WD system adding another $2,000 to the sticker. Amenities include power driver’s seat, satellite radio, dual-zone air conditioning, HID headlights and fog lights. Base Laredos ride on 17-inch wheels wearing 245/70R17 tires.
The Laredo X package starts at $34,995 for 2WD models ($36,995 for 4WD models) and features rear parking assist, back-up camera, leather seats, heated mirrors and a nine-speaker Alpine audo system. Plus, Laredo X models get 18-inch wheels wearing 265/60R18 tires. Moving up a notch, Grand Cherokee Limited models start at $37,100 for 2WD models, with Chrysler’s Quadra-Trac II electronic four-wheel-drive system moving the sticker to $39,600. Limited models feature remote start, heated first- and second-row seats, seat memory system, Garmin navigation, hands-free phone interface, touchscreen radio, bi-xenon HID headlights and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. Like the Laredo X, Limited models ride on 18-inch wheels. The Quadra-Trac II system on the Limited also comes with Chrysler’s “Selec-Train” system, which allows drivers to dial in the type of terrain they’re encountering (i.e. sport, snow, rock, sand/mud) and raise and lower the vehicle’s ride height.
The top-of-the-line Overland models starts at $39,495 for 2WD models, but customers willing to shell out a base price of $41,900 will get the Quadra-Trac II 4WD system as well as the Quadra-Lift air suspension. Overland models also come standard with wood-trimmed steering wheel, Nappa leather, vented front seats and a power tilt/telescope steering wheel. In addition, Overland models ride on 20-inch wheels wearing 265/50R20 tires.
In all, selecting a 4WD Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland and tacking on options like rear DVD ($1,495) and trailer tow package ($595) will move the sticker price north of $46,000.
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