What's the difference?
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.
It’s 2026 and over 30 years and through six generations the Subaru Outback as we knew it… is gone.
Gone is the defiantly wagon-esque crossover style that was one of the first, as well as likely the most-successful, for the boxy beast you see here.
RIP, original Subaru Outback.
But, don’t worry, folks, because, except for a couple of issues, things only get better by and large, with the big new seventh-gen model.
And, in the most important ways, the 2026 Outback is a true Subaru at heart, so let’s dive straight in!
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.Â
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.
Over 30 years and seven generations of Outback in Australia, the latest might just be the best.
It's great to drive, even better to sit in, very easy to live and willing to go further than most equivalent large SUVs at its price point.
The styling is definitely divisive, with purists unhappy that the long, crossover wagon silhouette is now gone, but what we have instead is a family-friendly vehicle that pleases on so many fronts.
We’d go as far as saying the latest Outback might be the most-rounded Subaru currently available, and great value to boot. And the base AWD is all the SUV most people will ever need.
That’s not bad for something this square!
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.