2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5-Seater SWB Introduces Model’s First Hybrid Option

Jeep has expanded its Grand Cherokee range by contracting the wheelbase 5-inches (126 mm) to create a two-row, five-seat companion to the seven-seat model revealed back in January.

The shorter 2022 Grand Cherokee shares the same styling as its 2021 Grand Cherokee L big brother, but shrinks the wheelbase to 116.7-inches ( 2964 mm), and brings hybrid power to the range for the first time.

First Grand Cherokee With A Plug-in Hybrid Option

The new PHEV model named the Grand Cherokee 4xe combines a four-cylinder engine with dual-motor electric assistance, just like on the smaller Wrangler 4xe. The combination of a 2.0-liter gasoline motor and 17 kWh battery pack gives the 4xe a solid 375 hp and even more useful 470 lb-ft torque rating. Also useful for city folk is the 25 miles of electric range, and a theoretical total range of 440 miles.

There are, however, plenty of other powertrains available for drivers who still want a traditional V6 or V8. A 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar V6 kicks off the range, but while its 293 hp and 260 lb-ft figures might be enough for drivers who like to take things easy, we can imagine many being tempted by the optional 5.7 Hemi.

Related: 2022 Jeep Wrangler Willys Gains Xtreme Recon Package With 35-Inch Tires

With 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, plus a towing rating of 7,200 lbs versus 6,200 for the V6, it promises to be a handy stepping-stone to the unconfirmed Hellcat-powered Trackhawk version we hear might have been axed from Jeep’s plans.

Four Trim Levels: Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, And Summit

One variant that is confirmed and should keep true dirt lovers happy is the Trailhawk. Air suspension giving up to 11.3-inches (287 mm) of ground clearance, off-road rubber, a rear locking differential and more trail-related goodies are standard to help keep you safe from harm off the beaten track.

Back on the black stuff, the rest of the range comprises of Laredo, Altitude, Overland, Summit and Summit Reserve trims. But if you want the 4xe hybrid powertrain, you’ll have to dig deep: it’s not available on the bottom two trim levels.

While base models will come with standard rear wheel drive, Jeep offers a bunch of all-wheel drive options in Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II flavors depending on the model, but in each case the front axle will disconnect to save fuel when it senses you don’t need the added traction.

A Posh Interior

On the inside, just as on the outside, the five-seat Grand Cherokee looks almost identical to its long wheelbase seven-seat L brother. And that means it shares the same luxury vibe, and some of the technology seen on the flagship Wagoneers, including an optional McIntosh audio system.

Also Read: 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Starts From $36,995, Tops Out At $65,290

Sales Start At The End Of 2021

The five-seat Grand Cherokee hits U.S. dealers later this year as a 2022 model, but if you want the 4xe, you’ll have to wait until early in 2022. Jeep hasn’t released prices, but we expect the five-seat Grand Cherokee to cost slightly less than the L, which currently starts at $38,635 before delivery.