Grand Cherokee sales had been sliding in recent years, aggravated by an aging design, new competition, and increasing market jitters. But sales returned to the plus side in 2002, albeit by a slim year-to-year margin of just 621 units. If an SUV could feel like a sports car, the 4.7 litre V8-equipped Grand Cherokee is the closest thing. It is a classic. Introduced more than a decade ago and redesigned five years ago, it lacks the refinement found in the latest wave of SUVs. It ranks among the best-selling SUVs in America. Jeep sells about 220,000 Grand Cherokees a year. That's a whole big bunch. Grand Cherokee sales outrank such popular nameplates as Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Expedition, and Durango. It is a solid vehicle that can go anywhere. It can tackle steep slopes, slog through mud, and plow through snow.

It can tackle steep slopes, slog through mud, and plow through snow. It's reasonably quick with the available high-output 4.7-liter V8. It has been completely revamped for 2003. It has been continuously revised for improved ride quality, easier steering effort, improved brake pedal feel, and increased safety and convenience. Its interior is attractive and tastefully trimmed in handsome wood. Its list of features is just impressive. MSRPs range from $26,980 for a six-cylinder 2WD Laredo to $38,995 for a 4WD Overland with a V8.

Compare this Grand Cherokee with the new 2004 Expedition.

2004 Expedition

Ford redesigned and re-engineered its Expedition in 2003 and the result was a vastly superior product. The Ford Expedition is smooth, stable and refined. Its handling is precise and responsive given its size and weight. The interior was redesigned for the edition 2003 as well. A small center seat on the second row slides forward to give front-seat parents access to a small child. Safety is enhanced with a lower front bumper, an optional safety curtain designed to protect occupants in a rollover, adjustable pedals to give smaller drivers better seating, and a tire-pressure monitor.

Compare the Jeep's new Grand Cherokee with the Expedition, SRX and last years 2003 Dakota.

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