Motorists who live in colder climates have special considerations to make when it comes to choosing the right car. It goes without saying that these drivers need to stay on top of vehicle maintenance to ensure their automobile rides smoothly, effectively and safely in any winter conditions. However, there are some models that simply perform better in the face of snow and ice. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been acclaimed for decades as a sport-utility vehicle that is ideal for both standard driving as well as off-roading. As a result of its strong capabilities, the Cherokee has been named the "Official Winter Vehicle of New England" by the New England Motor Press Association.
Impressive updates
This isn't the first time the car has won this award. In fact, Cherokee has been granted this honor for four years in a row now. Craig Fitzgerald, NEMPA President, explained that this fourth consecutive win can be attributed to two of the vehicle's new features: the EcoDiesel engine and eight-speed transmission.
"Grand Cherokee continues to manage New England's snow and ice with highly competent handling and traction, an excellent ride and a comfortable, tasteful interior, with proper cold-weather amenities," said Fitzgerald. "Wherever it goes and whatever its assignment, the Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out in the crowded SUV and crossover segments."
The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee also features a bevy of other rewards as well, including more than 60 safety and security features, three advanced 4x4 systems and an impressive driving range of more than 730 miles at 30 miles per gallon. It's no wonder February sales of the vehicle increased 21 percent in the U.S., and were up 23 percent specifically in the Northeast.
A tough reputation
Mike Manley, president and CEO of Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC, pointed out that this is an especially significant recognition for the car as this has been one of the harshest winters on record. The Grand Cherokee has long been regarded as a robust vehicle, however. The Eagle-Tribune noted that Jeep is a brand that launched by making "go-anywhere work horses" for World War II soldiers. Throughout the years, the auto company has modified its offerings to fit the needs of a typical consumer while still maintaining a certain ruggedness. Antonio Martins, sales manager of Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Methuen, Mass., admitted to the news outlet that his dealership has traded many of its Acura, Infiniti, Porsche and BMW vehicles for Grand Cherokees.
"It spans a wide range of budgets and tastes," Martins told the Eagle-Tribune. "But across the whole Grand Cherokee line-up, the fit and finish is perfect. The materials are high quality. The comfort is there. It has great off-road capabilities."