New Jeep Grand Cherokee Scheduled for 2011 Release

Notwithstanding the Commander, Jeep's one and only seven-seater, Jeep's

flagship model is the Grand Cherokee. Although it's the brand's most luxurious sport utility vehicle, it is at the same time one of the most capable 4x4s on the planet, abiding by the brand's no-compromise off-road creed. Although it was just updated for 2008, with a freshened nose and an improved interior, plans have begun for the next-generation Grand Cherokee.

Besides an expected build-date of mid-2010, and the continuation of the diesel engine, not a whole lot is known about the next Grand Cherokee, although The Car Connection reports that the 2 Mode Hybrid system from the Aspen / Durango will be offered as an additional drivetrain choice. Expect the Grand Cherokee to keep its “Jeep Modern” styling theme as opposed to the “Jeep Classic” of the new Liberty, but it'll be less rounded and more angular,

similar to the Trailhawk Concept from last year.

Despite little news about the actual vehicle, Chrysler LLC kicked off the next generation Grand Cherokee by announcing a $281 million investment into the Jefferson North assembly facility in Detroit, Michigan, which builds the five-occupant midsize SUV, as well as the Commander. But (and there's always a but), because the Commander is being phased out at the end of its current life cycle and Grand Cherokee sales are down these days, there's going to be plenty of space left over. It's been rumored that the Durango and the Aspen, which are also due for updates at the same time, will be shifted away from Newark, Delaware, their current home, to Jefferson North.