I spotted what I believe to be disguised versions of the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The nose and tail were obviously disguised, but the rest of the vehicle looks like the current model. The testing was taking place near Glenwood Springs, CO – on Interstate 70. Traffic was moving slowly on October 13th 2012, so I was able to unroll my window and listen to both Jeeps accelerate past me.
Depending on your perspective, something sounded odd – or amazing…
…I think I heard the sputter of a modern diesel.
Chrysler Group LLC has been steadily developing a 3-liter (CRD) diesel to power Jeep products – namely the Jeep Grand Cherokee and,
possibly, the Jeep Wrangler. I believe that these testing vehicles were equipped with the 3-liter CRD units – or at least the one that powered past me. Please keep in mind, this is only conjecture.
Another rumor is that the Jeep Grand Wagoneer will return with three rows of seats and offer a HEMI V8 and the 3-liter CRD diesel. Once again, this is rumor and speculation – but it’s based on sound reasoning. The 3.0-liter CRD V6 is said to put out over 400 lbs-feet of torque and achieve nearly 30 mpg in a large vehicle like the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler and even the RAM 1500. Yep, that’s what the automotive sewing circle let slip during a recent listening-in session. I suspect the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee could be fitted with the new eight-speed automatic unit which will help it attain remarkable numbers.
Who knows? Maybe the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel will finally turn Americans on to the beauty of diesels. If nothing else, having that much torque for off-roading would be friggin’ cool! Real off-roaders (and you know who you are) KNOW this to be an excellent possibly for the future. I can’t wait to meet the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee with and without the diesel.
Here’s some fun video footage of off-roading in the beautiful Rocky Mountains!
