What's the difference?
This is the baby SUV for Hyundai’s line-up but it does tend to remind you of this a little too often for this to truly be fun.
Still, it presents an interesting road-side presence and a comfortable urban driving experience.
Coupled with the competitive price tag, is this the little SUV that could? I’ve been driving it for the last week to find that out for you.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has always been big. But if you want to carry more than five people, not big enough. Which is where the all-new, fifth-generation model comes in.
It’s the Grand Cherokee L. Jeep’s first-ever seven-seat version of its flagship SUV.
It’s set to compete with top-spec versions of mainstream models like the Hyundai Palisade and Toyota LandCruiser Prado, as well as premium full-size family trucksters like the Land Rover Discovery and Volvo XC90.
Jeep invited us to the Grand Cherokee L’s Australian launch to get a first taste of how it measures up to local conditions.
The Hyundai Venue Elite is a sweet-looking, compact SUV that should suit drivers who only need an A-to-B sort of car in the city. Or an empty nester who doesn’t want to feel flustered by any high-end tech and wants knobs and dials where they expect them to be.
Some elements of the safety set could be better though and that’s something to consider. However, for an urban landscape, you can practically fit it anywhere. With its engine specs, it's also happiest in the city - don't consider this a road trip car.
Jeep’s aim with this car is to lift the Grand Cherkee to a more premium level, and that’s about brand equity and badge credibility as much as it is the vehicle itself.
The seven-seat L has stepped up in price, but also in practicality, refinement and equipment, while maintaining serious off-road ability.
Does it have what it takes to tempt people away from, say, the German Big Three? That’s a tough ask, but this Jeep certainly has more of what it takes to make that a real possibility.
For mine, the entry-level Night Eagle is the pick. Well equipped, heaps of safety and plenty of off-highway prowess.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.