WITH a 60-year history behind it there is no disputing the Jeep's remarkable staying power in the industry.
And there's no dispute about the staying power of the Grand Cherokee 2.7 CRD I tested recently.
It's a motor built to take on the toughest terrain, haul the heaviest of loads and cruise the motorway in comfortable fashion.
Voted the World's Best Off-roader 2004 by the 4x4 Magazine the Grand Cherokee may not be as pretty as the Land Rover opposition, but for value for money it probably comes out ahead.
At just over £30,000 you get a lot of car for your wad.
I didn't manage to get it off-road during the test, but I can remember the UK launch of the latest Grand Cherokee in Scotland and it had outstanding all-terrain capabilities.
Power comes from a 2.7-litre CRD, a Mercedes-derived common rail diesel which produces 161bhp and 295lb/ft of torque (pulling power) over a range of between 1,800 and 2,600rpm.
Acceleration, at 11.2 seconds for 0-62mph, isn't blistering and it makes a fair amount of noise getting there but you can be consoled with the fuel consumption. For such a big beast you can expect around 30mpg on a combined run.
If you enjoy the experience of feeling invincible then the Grand Cherokee fits the bill. It's high driving position, sturdy and aggressive lines and 17in Rogue Platinum alloys give it an impressive look.
Standard equipment includes driver and front passenger airbags, air conditioning, six speaker AM/FM radio with cassette and CD player, ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution, Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser and electrically operated and heated door mirrors.
Safety and security have been well taken care of. The Cherokee is fitted with ABS, remote central locking, driver and front passenger air bags, headlamp on timer delay, levelling system and warning buzzer, height adjustable front seat belts, high level rear brake light, locking fuel filler cap and side impact protection guards.
Like most big 4x4s, the Cherokee will probably be used for the school run. But if you really need a rough and tough off-roader a real Jeep could be the answer.
FAST FACTS
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7 CRD Limited
Price: £30,415
Mechanical: 161bhp, 2,685cc, 5cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 5spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 118mph
0-62mph: 11.2 secs
Combined mpg: 29.1
Insurance group: 16
CO2 emissions: 255g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 7yrs paint; 7yrs anti-rust