Today’s news brings two more big items, in addition to a report on a 426-cubic-inch modified-Hellcat monster putting over 1400 horsepower to the wheels:
First, Jeep released pricing and details on the 2022 Grand Cherokee 4xe. Delivering 25 miles of all-electric range and 56 MPGe, using a new plugin hybrid architecture, the Grand Cherokee 4xe will start at $57,700, not including government rebates or the $1,795 destination charge in the continental United States.
The new Jeep will be made in the Detroit-Mack plant, arriving at dealerships this spring. The base model has standard Quadra-Trac II. Buyers can pay more to get higher models:
- Trailhawk 4xe, $62,485 plus destination
- Overland 4xe, $65,760 plus destination
- Summit 4xe, $69,820 plus destination
- Summit Reserve 4xe, $74,300 plus destination
The 4xe system generates 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, roughly the same output as the 5.7 Hemi, but does so with the fuel economy of a six-cylinder, and with high torque at launch. It is based on a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder “GME” engine, coupled to two electric motors and an eight-speed automatic. The turbocharger is a twin-scroll model with low inertia. The engine has direct injection, and the air conditioning compressor is electrically driven, so cooling is delivered under battery power. Top towing capacity is 6,000 pounds.
In other news today, Stellantis announced that it planned to take a 75% share in its China-based joint venture with China Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), which makes Jeep for China, up from 50%; this step was made possible by changes to Chinese law. Automotive News reported that GAC objects to the plan.
