2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The popular and versatile 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee receives a few design updates, but makes the biggest news by offering two new engine choices, making it the only midsize SUV to offer a total of five engines. This five-passenger SUV sits on a car-like platform to make it more family friendly, but is offered in both rear-wheel and full-time 4WD with low-range gearing, to make it more adventure and off-road friendly. Three trims start with the base Laredo and move through the Limited and Overland, gradually adding more bells and whistles. The high-performance SRT-8 comes only in 4WD. All trims features a 5-speed automatic, ABS brakes, traction and stability control, and dual-front airbags. There are three 4WD systems available (Quadra-Trac I and II, and Quadra-Drive II).

New for the 2008 Grand Cherokee is an optional 3.0-liter, 215-hp turbodiesel V6 that rates 18/23 mpg, compared to the 15/20 mpg in the other trims. Also new is a revised 4.7-liter V8 that now gets 305-hp and 330 ft-lbs of torque (a 24% and 6% increase respectively over last year). It is available as a flex fuel engine and is optional in all trims, but standard on the Limited. The base Laredo starts with the 3.7-liter 210-hp V6, while the Overland features the 5.7-liter, 330-hp HEMI V8. The SRT-8 is powered by a 6.1-liter, 420-hp HEMI V8 that can hit 0-60 in under five seconds.

Some new optional safety features include Hill Descent Control and Hill Assist. Other options add on a navigation system, rearview camera, parking sensors, and rain-sensing wipers. A new Trailer Sway Control helps keep rear loads stable in the 2008 Grand Cherokee, which can tow anywhere from 3,500 to 7,400 pounds. In terms of design changes, rounder headlights and lower foglights are the most noticeable exterior features. Inside, a two-tone dash and revised center console/armrest are the primary updates. A nice new option is SIRIUS Backseat TV, which offers three kids' channels and can operate separately from the front-seat SIRIUS radio. A MyGIG entertainment system includes a 20-gig hard drive. New HID headlamps feature auto-leveling control to adjust for road conditions. For off-roading trips, a new two-piece front fascia lets you remove the lower piece for better ground clearance.

The 2008 Grand Cherokee remains a popular choice for dual households - those needing space and comfort for family trips and also wanting to take the four-wheel drive onto rocky back roads. Early owners praise the interior comfort and ergonomics and car-like handling. The HEMI V8 power is a big hit, as is the superior off-road capability. Gas mileage seems to be the only major complaint.