After a decade of resting on its laurels, the Jeep Grand Cherokee finally undergoes a full redesign for the 2022 model year. This marks the Grand Cherokee’s fifth generation after nearly thirty years of carrying the mid-size SUV mantle for the off-road-oriented Jeep brand. While the 2022 Grand Cherokee will maintain the mission of its forebears, it also promises to look toward the future with modern mechanical and convenience kit.

Reportedly riding on a variant of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio‘s rear-drive-based underpinnings (the same basic chassis will underpin the Maserati Grecale crossover, too), the 2022 Grand Cherokee ought to improve upon the model’s on-road dynamics without sacrificing its off-road capability. 

Look for Jeep to offer a number of different trim levels on the next-gen Grand Cherokee, with most models sporting standard rear-wheel drive. That said, every 2022 Grand Cherokee will offer four-wheel drive as at least an option. Look for multiple systems, too. While higher-end and more trail-oriented Grand Cherokee trims will no doubt sport a two-speed transfer case for extra prowess off the beaten path, lower-spec models may sport a less complicated setup that makes do without low-range gearing—just as is the case currently.

The 2022 Grand Cherokee ought to offer a multitude of engine options for buyers to choose from. Like today’s model, we expect the brand’s near-300-hp 3.6-liter V-6 to serve as the default setup. Similarly, a more-than-350-hp 5.7-liter V-8 engine will likely be offered, as well. More efficiency-oriented consumers may get their needs met by way of the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V-6 engines offered in the Wrangler. Likewise, the new Grand Cherokee may even adopt the Wrangler 4xe‘s 375-hp gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.

High-performance junkies are expected to have their appetites whet by way of new SRT models. Whether the 700-hp-plus supercharged V-8 of the Trackhawk finds its way to the new Grand Cherokee remains to be seen. Regardless, we think a Desert-Rated Gladiator Mojave-like trim may find its way to the next Grand Cherokee. Look for such a Grand Cherokee to boast additional ride height, model-specific shocks and springs, and more.

We hear that Jeep will initially offer the Grand Cherokee with a long wheelbase that’s capable of fitting three rows of seats. A five-passenger model on a shorter wheelbase will debut later, possibly as a 2023 model. The former setup will allow the Grand Cherokee to better compete with the likes of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, while the latter will allow the model to maintain its current foothold as an alternative to vehicles such as the Honda Passport and Toyota 4Runner.

We anticipate Jeep will fit the 2022 Grand Cherokee—in either length—with its latest infotainment software, likely displayed on 8.4 or 12.0-inch screens. Both front- and rear-seat passenger space ought to offer spacious accommodations, however, the third row will probably serve as an area best for kids and those of smaller stature. Jeep buyers looking for more third-row space will always be able to jump up to the even bigger Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models.

Although we don’t know what Jeep will charge for the 2022 Grand Cherokee, we anticipate the new model will see its price rise slightly relative to that of the 2020’s $35,495 base sum. Stepping up the trim range, however, will no doubt add to the cost, and top-line 2022 Grand Cherokees may crest $60,000—and that’s not accounting for any high-performance on- or off-road trims.

We’ll know more about the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee when the brand pulls the wraps off in the coming months. Look for sales to all but assuredly start before the end of the 2021 calendar year.