2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Dubbed 2014 SUV of the Year by Autobytel

Methuen, USA, 01/16/2014 / SubmitMyPR /

The Jeep Grand Cherokee was only scheduled for a mid-cycle refresh for the 2014 model year, but its surprisingly comprehensive list of updates have helped the popular SUV earn a host of new accolades, the latest being the Autobytel 2014 SUV of the Year award. With a more refined exterior and interior, a new eight-speed automatic transmission and a new powerful-yet-efficient diesel engine option, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee was the hands-down choice for Autobytel editors.

Outside, the 2014 Grand Cherokee features front and rear LED lighting, slimmer front headlamps and a shorter upper grille, while a revised center stack with a Uconnect touchscreen and the new leather-wrapped E-shifter and three-spoke steering wheel convey a stronger sense of luxury inside the cabin. All models now offer improved fuel economy thanks to the eight-speed transmission, and four-wheel-drive capability has been enhanced with the gearbox's lower crawl ratio of 44.1:1. Autobytel editors were particularly impressed by the 2014 Grand Cherokee's new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine, which produces 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque while returning a class-leading 30 mpg on the highway.

"Jeep didn't wait for a full redesign to make impactful changes to the Grand Cherokee, and buyers benefit in all areas, including style, amenities, capability and fuel economy," said Tom Barenboim, owner of Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, a Methuen, Massachusetts Jeep dealer. "The new diesel engine is a game-changer on its own because drivers get a massive amount of torque for towing while being able to drive for up to 730 miles between fill-ups."

With a boost from the refreshed 2014 model, U.S. sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee reached 174,275 units in 2013, a 13 percent increase year-over-year. Meanwhile, the Jeep Cherokee nameplate returned to the market in late October as an all-new midsize SUV, moving more than 25,000 units before the end of the year. Those impressive performances helped Jeep's overall sales rise by 3 percent last year over the brand's strong 2012 tally.

About Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram:
For more than 60 years, Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has helped car, truck and SUV buyers find the vehicles that satisfy their needs, along with the financing and service they deserve. Whether you’re searching for hassle-free Jeep sales, Chrysler parts, Dodge service or the latest Ram trucks, their dealership works hard to exceed customer expectations. To view Clark’s wide selection of new and used Jeep and Chrysler models, visit their showroom at 175 Pelham Street in Methuen, Massachusetts, or browse online at www.clarkchryslerjeep.com. They can be reached by phone at 888-875-3706, and you
can find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ClarkJeep.