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The Incredible Timeline of the Jeep Grand Cherokee

A red 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is shown driving through a city.
View New Jeep Grand Cherokee Jeep has proven its ability to keep up with a world that constantly changes. They consistently make solid vehicles and have been doing so for decades. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of their most iconic models and the most-awarded SUV ever, earning top marks in categories like safety, off-road capability, and value. If you're in the market for a used Jeep Grand Cherokee, you really can't go wrong. When you get a Grand Cherokee, you're not just getting a well-rounded high-performer; you're getting a little piece of history.

1941: The Father of All Jeeps

To understand the history of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, you have to go back to World War II, when the United States government enlisted the help of several companies to develop a 4x4 reconnaissance vehicle. Out of prototypes from three manufacturers, the Willys-Overland MB Jeep was born. Calling it an upgrade from horses is an understatement; at the time, the Willys Jeep was a marvel of engineering. President Dwight D Eisenhower himself described the vehicle as "one of three decisive weapons the U.S. had during World War II." That's right, those cute little Jeep Liberty's you see cruising around? Basically, war machines. A long run of success in military applications proved to translate well to the commercial market. The Jeep CJ (literally, "civilian jeep") was the first version to be available for purchase by the public in 1945, but Jeep soon expanded its lineup to include a variety of high-performance 4x4 vehicles. The production of Jeeps for use by the public really hasn't stopped since then, much to the delight of American consumers. A grey 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit is shown from from the side parked in a city after searching for a used Jeep Grand Cherokee.

1974: The Cherokee

A few decades and several iterations of Jeep later, the 1974 Jeep Cherokee SJ was the first to don the "Cherokee" moniker. It was a full-sized SUV derived from the Wagoneer. True to its nature as a history book regular, this Jeep became the first vehicle to be dubbed a "Sport Utility Vehicle" or SUV as we of the 21st century like to call it. The Jeep Cherokee XJ followed in 1984 as a compact SUV that can only be described as the best-looking SUV in all of human history. Its good looks are largely credited to Dick Teague, one of the most prolific automotive designers of all time. It's got a squared-off look that works better than it should, and the big wheels, ample ground clearance, and iconic Jeep grille don't hurt, either.

1992: The Jeep Cherokee Gets Grander

Jeep wanted to capitalize on the popularity of the Jeep Cherokee XJ, and thus work on what would eventually become the Jeep Grand Cherokee started in 1983. It didn't come to fruition until a decade later with the 1993 ZJ model. During this delay from the drawing board to the factory, Jeep's manufacturer, American Motor Companies (AMC), was purchased by Chrysler. The entire Jeep line was fiercely competitive in the market, and AMC developed a modernized and highly effective process dubbed "product lifecycle management (PLM)" while developing the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Chrysler took note of the earning potential the Jeep had to offer and jumped on the opportunity. The 1993 Grand Cherokee ZJ was the first generation of this iconic vehicle, and it came in three trims: the SE, Laredo, and Limited. Nifty new features set the budding ZJ apart from its competitors, including a digital Electric Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) that gave drivers feedback when certain complications arose. It also displayed the direction the vehicle was headed and the outside temperature. Production of the Grand Cherokee ZJ ceased in 1998.

1999 – 2017: Generations of Success

In 1999, the second generation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee debuted: the WJ. This was a full redesign of the model, and the new version shared few commonalities with its predecessor – only 127 parts were carried over from the ZJ to the WJ. The 1999 Grand Cherokee also had Chrysler's then-new PowerTech V8 engine option, which was lighter and more fuel-efficient than engines found in the ZJ. It also came available with brand-new Quadra-Drive, an innovative, off-roading-friendly 4x4 system that added a new clutch pack limited-slip differential for boosted traction. It had different modes that meant drivers could trek through snowy terrain just as effectively as a mudslide. In 2005, the third generation Jeep Grand Cherokee WK was born. It featured the Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system and had even more power than its predecessors. The WK got up to 420 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque with the optional 6.1-liter HEMI V8 engine found under the hood of the high-performance SRT8 trim. However, the WK was not just about raw performance. It also introduced a new independent double-wishbone front suspension that gave it a far more comfortable and responsive ride than the old live axle. The WK2 was the fourth generation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, unveiled in 2011. It was developed on a limited budget during the Great Recession, and Chrysler used the project as evidence of its profitability when requesting a federal loan. The highly-awarded new Grand Cherokee was a huge success, but repercussions of the Great Recession took their toll, and in 2014, Chrysler was bought by Fiat. A grey 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is shown from the side parked in a desert.

2021: The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Beyond

In 2021, the fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee WL debuted with the all-new Grand Cherokee L, the first Cherokee to have three rows of standard seating. It's available in six trims, providing buyers with plenty of options: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve. Jeep likes doing things first, which explains the extravagant 19-speaker McIntosh sound system, the first of its kind in any vehicle. Despite decades of development and changing markets, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has managed to stay true to its high-performance roots. The 2021 Cherokee L is a real powerhouse with a best-in-class towing capacity of 7,200 lbs and up to 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque with the available 5.7L HEMI V8. It can even drive through up to two feet of water! However, Jeep's rugged image doesn't exclude niceties like the back massagers in the front seats, standard in the Summit and Summit Reserved trims. It's hard to say what's next for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Jeep announced it was taking the Wagoneer off the bench for the first time in 30 years, rounding out the top end of Jeep's SUV lineup and taking some pressure off the Grand Cherokee. One thing's fairly certain; we can probably expect to see more electricity incorporated into Jeep's vehicles. The Grand Cherokee is scheduled to be available as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and if the current market is any indication, Jeep will likely jump on board with electrifying its vehicles sooner rather than later. Jeep has demonstrated an uncanny ability to embrace the future wholeheartedly while remaining true to its wartime origins, resulting in an incredibly loyal fan base that is ever-growing. Jeep does not just keep up with the market; it sets trends and shapes the market. The Jeep Grand Cherokee literally made the modern SUV what it is today – who knows what we'd be calling this particular segment of vehicle today if it hadn't been for the ingenuity of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
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2022 Jeep Compass

2022 Jeep Compass Interior Features

The 2022 Jeep Compass is here, and we're thrilled to show it off to more drivers around Paris, Kentucky. A sleek and appealing cabin, ample cargo possibilities, comfortable seats, and intuitive technology systems are just a few highlights of this compact SUV.  Check out this full review of the 2022 Jeep Compass interior. We'll give you the full breakdown of standard interior features, optional ones, what's new for 2022, and everything else you should know about this SUV's cabin. View Jeep Compass 2022 Jeep Compass Interior Overview 2022 Jeep Compass The 2022 Jeep Compass is here, and we're thrilled to show it off to more drivers around Paris, Kentucky. A sleek and appealing cabin, ample cargo possibilities, comfortable seats, and intuitive technology systems are just a few highlights of this compact SUV.  Check out this full review of the 2022 Jeep Compass interior. We'll give you the full breakdown of standard interior features, optional ones, what's new for 2022, and everything else you should know about this SUV's cabin. Color Options The Sport trim level comes standard with black fabric low-back bucket seats. Premium fabric and vinyl bucket seats in black or steel gray are available on the Latitude trim, while leather-trimmed bucket seats in black are available on the Latitude Lux trim. 2022 Jeep Compass Comfort Features The 2022 Jeep Compass comes in five trim levels, each with its own set of amenities. New trims and special models may be added over the following year. While the seating provides a pleasant environment below, the optional motorized dual-pane sunroof provides a spectacular view up above. The center console has adequate storage to keep your items safe and organized, and the driver's seat's raised design creates the sensation that you're sitting in a cockpit. Seating and Lighting The Compass Sport has quality cloth seating, while the Latitude adds a cloth–vinyl combination and ambient overhead lighting plus an available dual-pane panoramic sunroof upgrade.  The Latitude Lux builds from there with heated leather front and rear seats, plus a power eight-way driver's seat with manual lumbar support. The Trailhawk and Limited trims get heated second-row seats as an option. The Limited also gets a black leather interior with burnished-copper-stitched sepia accents. Steering Wheel Steering wheel audio controls come standard on the Compass Sport. Stepping up to the Latitude also adds a leather-wrapped shifter knob. The Latitude Lux adds a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel, also found on the Limited. Climate Control The Latitude has an add-on for dual-zone automatic climate control, and that same feature is included standard on the Jeep Compass Limited. Single-zone manual climate control appears on all other editions. Visit Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Paris today or check out our Compass models for sale in Paris, Kentucky. You can search our current models by the interior layouts and options you prefer. 2022 Compass Alternate Edition Interiors There are currently two special editions of the Jeep Compass, and both upgrade the features inside and out. The Altitude Package is an optional upgraded version of the Latitude that adds several black exterior features. On the inside, it gets a matching black headliner, piano black interior accents, and tungsten seat stitching. The Jeep Red is another new special edition released in 2022, applying to the Compass and Renegade. On the Compass, it adds all the top features of the Limited, plus Amazon Alexa, HD Radio, navigation, SiriusXM services with a free trial, integrated voice commands, and driver's-seat memory.  It all comes in a bright red version of the exterior with a power lift gate and premium LED lights all over. 2022 Jeep Compass Technology Features The all-new Jeep Compass for 2022 is packed with innovations. With wireless charging for minimum clutter, front and rear USB A and C connectivity ports, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Jeep drivers and shoppers around Paris, KY, will be on the cutting edge in the 2022 Compass. Infotainment System The 2022 Jeep Compass has two Uconnect touchscreen systems available, one of which is the Uconnect 5 8.4-inch center stack touchscreen on the Sport, the largest standard entry-level touchscreen in its class. There's also a 10.1-inch driver information digital display on the Latitude Lux or Limited. The screens are set partially out from the center dash in a unique, more ergonomic placement. The Limited also adds a seven-inch full-color instrument display in direct view while driving, giving you better illumination of key driving details. Music and Radio Move up to the Limited, and you'll enjoy a nine-speaker Alpine audio system included standard. The same system appears as an option on the Latitude. Otherwise, Sport models and up use a six-speaker audio system as standard. Get the Best Jeep Interior with Dan Cummins This new edition comes with a slew of improvements while maintaining the distinctive appearance of the Compass model. The automaker has always had an eye for improvement, and 2022 marks the best model year for this SUV so far. As you climb the trim levels, you'll find various standard safety features included, powerful engine ratings and so much more. When looking for a new SUV, you're bound to enjoy a Jeep like the Compass. What's more, you're protected with a bumper-to-bumper five-year and 60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a three-year and 36,000-mile limited warranty, so your Jeep Compass is as protected on the outside as it is on the inside. Our dealership can help you pick the best among multiple Jeep discount options, like no payments for 90 days or up to $2,000 in cash allowances on a new model. If you're interested in getting a 2022 Jeep Compass at the best possible discount, you can trust the team at Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Paris. Our dealership network makes it easy to search for vehicles by your preferred automaker, trim level, model year, colors, and much more. Browse our inventory today, and feel free to contact us with questions.

2023 Jeep Wrangler

2022 Jeep Wrangler vs. Ford Bronco

If you're seeking a sporty vehicle with advanced off-road capabilities and powerful on-road performance, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler and the 2022 Ford Bronco are both great choices. These models offer top-notch engines, comfortable exteriors, sophisticated exteriors, and plenty of safety and tech features. Read on to explore the similarities and differences between these two sport SUVs, so you can choose which one best fits your needs and lifestyle. View Jeep Wrangler Pricing 2023 Jeep Wrangler The 2022 Jeep Wrangler Sport starts at $29,995. Naturally, each subsequent trim has more features and increases in price. Here are the other trims of this model, with the prices for each: The Willys Sport starts at $32,450 MSRP. The Sport S starts at $33,195 MSRP. The Willys starts at $36,445 MSRP. The Sport Altitude starts at $39,185 MSRP. The Sahara starts at $41,745 MSRP. The Rubicon starts at $41,795 MSRP. The Sport RHD starts at $43,595 MSRP. The Sahara Altitude starts at $45,340 MSRP. The High Tide starts at $49,635 MSRP. The High Altitude starts at $52,075 MSRP. The Rubicon 392 starts at $77,490 MSRP. The 2022 Ford Bronco has the following trims at different price points: The Base starts at $30,800 MSRP. The Big Bend starts at $35,285 MSRP. The Black Diamond starts at $37,950 MSRP. The Outer Banks starts at $40,855 MSRP. The Badlands starts at $44,495 MSRP. The Wildtrak starts at $49,780 MSRP. The Everglades starts at $53,000 MSRP. The Raptor starts at $68,500 MSRP. Engine The 2022 Jeep Wrangler has the following engine choices, all with automatic Engine Stop/Start (ESS) technology: The 2.0-liter Turbo engine delivers 270 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque, 21 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine offers 260 horsepower, 442 lb-ft of torque, 22 mph in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine pairs with mild-hybrid and eTorque capabilities to provide 285 horsepower, 260 lb-ft of torque, 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. The 2022 Ford Bronco has 2.3-liter and 2.7-liter EcoBoost engines. The 2.3-liter delivers 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, while the latter provides 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. You can also choose the 3-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine that comes standard on the 2022 Bronco Raptor. Combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission, this engine has even more power than the Base Bronco. Off-Roading Capabilities The 2022 Jeep Wrangler is Trail Rated, which means it's passed a series of challenging tests to prove its ability to navigate rugged terrain successfully. The five categories of the tests are traction, water fording, maneuverability, articulation, and ground clearance. This model's trims also come with three extraordinary four-wheel-drive system choices for incredible traction and performance over off-road obstacles. For example, the Command-Trac four-wheel-drive system features 4.88:1 axle ratio, heavy-duty steel skid plates, a 2.72:1 low range for rock crawling, and neutral for flat towing. One of the best 2022 Jeep Wrangler models for off-roading adventurers is the Rubicon 392. The only Wrangler with a 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine, this four-wheel-drive Jeep delivers a whopping 460 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque for optimal power and performance. You can also get from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. This trim is complete with 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, durable 33-inch all-terrain tires, and dual exhaust with quad tailpipes. For even more capability, you can also get the Xtreme Recon Package for 35-inch tires right from the manufacturer. In 2022, Ford is delivering two new special-edition Bronco models that have excellent off-roading capabilities. The first-ever Bronco Raptor features a HOSS 4.0 suspension with FOX Live Valve 3.1 internal bypass semi-active dampers and 37-inch tires. The new Ford Bronco Everglades acts as an upgrade to the Black Diamond trim, featuring a factory-installed Ford Performance by WARN winch kit and an air-intake snorkel. When paired with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and the Sasquatch package, this vehicle is ideal for taking on rugged off-road terrain. Safety Features The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offers over 75 safety and security features, including: Corning Gorilla Glass for the windshield. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection. Forward collision warning with active braking. Adaptive cruise control with stop and go. Automatic high-beam headlamps. ParkSense rear park assist system. ParkView rear backup camera. SOS button on the overhead console for calling emergency services. SiriusXM Guardian with a theft alarm system. Forward-facing off-road camera. Here are some of the safety and security features that come with the 2022 Ford Bronco: 360-camera with off-road views. Hill descent control. Rearview camera with backup assist. Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking. Auto high-beam headlamps. Exterior Appearance Most trims of the 2022 Jeep Wrangler come in the following colors and coats: Black Clear-Coat. Granite Crystal Metallic Clear-Coat. Sting-Gray Clear-Coat. Silver Zynith Clear-Coat. Hydro Blue Pearl-Coat. Snazzberry Pearl-Coat. Firecracker Red Clear-Coat. High Velocity Clear-Coat. Sarge Green Clear-Coat. Limited Edition Gobi Clear-Coat. Bright White Clear-Coat. The 2022 Ford Bronco features these exterior hues: Eruption Green. Shadow Black. Area 51. Cactus Gray. Desert Sand. Infotainment The 2022 Jeep Wrangler comes with the Uconnect system with an 8.4-inch touch screen, customizable settings, voice command, and navigation. Equipping your Wrangler with Jeep Skill for Amazon Alexa allows you to use voice commands to get driving directions, check fuel levels, and even start the engine. Plus, the Driver Information Digital Cluster Display lets you check speed, compass, and security. The 2022 Ford Bronco has SYNC 4 technology that comes with an 8-inch touch screen or the class-exclusive 12-inch screen with cloud-based connectivity. Additionally, the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to connect your devices to your vehicle and control them from your center screen display. As you can see, many car fanatics have a challenging time deciding between these vehicles. Both are award-winning for their performance and capabilities. In fact, the Wrangler 4xe with hybrid electric power is the best-selling plug-in hybrid in America, according to a 2021 study. If you have any questions about these two models or anything auto-related, our team here at Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Paris, Kentucky, is here to help. It may be beneficial to schedule a test drive, so you can experience the feel of these SUVs for yourself. Reach out to us online or call us at 859-587-3848, and one of our team members will be more than happy to assist you.

A grey 2022 Jeep Compass is shown from the side driving over a bridge.

2022 Jeep Compass: This Is the Way

View New Jeep Compass Imagine this, there's you, your vehicle, and the open road. Everything seems right with the world. Style has always been important to you, but so has the capability of the automobile you're driving, so what should you do? The answer is simple, and that's to read this article about the 2022 Jeep Compass. After this, and once you're ready to make your next step, you can come down to Dan Cummins CDJR to begin shopping. We're one of the highest-rated Jeep Dealers hips in Lexington, KY, and this wasn't something that happened overnight. Earning the trust of our community is key, and the best way to do that is by supplying the best vehicles that Jeep has to offer and at a competitive price too. Nobody knows better than Jeep fans that there is nothing like these well-constructed automobiles that have formed a massive following over the past few decades. One of the latest arrivals is the refreshed Compass for the 2022 model year, and we have plenty to show you, so keep on reading to learn all of the necessary details to help you make an informed decision when you visit our dealership. The Available Trims This year's Compass model is available in six trim levels; the base model is called the Sport, and it sports an MSRP of $24,995.* We're confident to say that the base trim level has gone above and beyond the expectations of many, including critics, and that you won't feel robbed from the overall experience should you try to save a bit of money. That's not to say that the other available trims aren't well worth your attention, however, as each one brings forth something not found on any preceding trim level. For example, Latitude is the next trim on the list, and this trim adds the likes of fog lamps, keyless entry, and some exterior enhancements too. The next available trim level for the Compass is Latitude LUX, and we feel this is where the true luxury features begin to appear. With heated leather seats and steering wheel, larger 18-inch wheels, and an upgraded 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, the Latitude LUX is a welcome addition to the Compass lineup. After this, we have the Limited trim, and there are only a couple of differences between it and the Latitude LUX, such as the gloss black room and chrome splitter, which add to its luxurious appearance. Drivers who are familiar with Jeep also know that one of the most notable highlights of vehicles produced by this manufacturer is off-roading. Of course, not every Jeep vehicle is built for off-roading, but that doesn't stop the Compass if you opt for the Trailhawk trim. There are many features here that correlate to more fun and safer off-roading experience, starting with more ground clearance and an upgraded 4x4 system. Red tow hooks are also included, helping you conquer the toughest trails with peace of mind. Lastly, we come to the best-of-the-best, and that's High Altitude, the single most luxurious trim that the 2022 Compass can offer you. What makes this so? A few things and the first one to mention is another increase in wheel size. With High Altitude, you'll be driving on large and strong 19-inch wheels. While the infotainment center remains the same that appears on the Latitude LUX trim and beyond, High Altitude also includes a 10.25-inch information cluster display, which replaces your dashboard's analog gauges with a digital screen that is customizable. Another exciting feature that High Altitude has not found on other trims is a panoramic sunroof, and for anyone who has ever experienced one, we don't have to tell you how incredible it is. For those who haven't, the driving experience will feel more freeing - you can have extra natural light in your cabin and extra airflow on a breezy summer day. There's A Catch Depending on what you're looking for in a vehicle, the Compass may appear a tad underwhelming in regards to powertrain options. This is because there's only one powertrain that will come with the Compass, and this has some positives and negatives attached to it. The positives are that those who purchase a lower-tier model such as Latitude or the Sport will mostly receive the same performance as higher-tier trims. The negative surrounding this single powertrain option is simply the lack of customization - but that lone drawback may not remain all that much longer. The European version of the Compass already has an optional 4xe plug-in hybrid variant, and we expect the Compass 4xe to make its way to America soon. Until then, we're rather pleased with the Compass's powertrain, even if it doesn't quite hit the 200 hp mark. With the Compass, a 2.4L four-cylinder engine comes paired with either a 6-speed or 9-speed automatic transmission, so the ride does feel excellent to drive. This engine creates 177 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque, and at its best, the Compass will tow 2,000 lbs, which should be just enough for fun summer activities such as bringing a boat down to your local lake. Fuel efficiency is rather spectacular with the Compass, and this is one of the reasons why we hope a turbocharged engine is in the works because if they can improve upon what's already here, that would be nothing short of incredible. If the 2.4L four-cylinder engine earns the same EPA-estimated ratings as last year, it will make 22 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. Overall, the Compass does perform more than well enough to meet the expectations of many drivers, but power enthusiasts are warned, there are limits here. Our Verdict We don't need to tell you how much Jeep vehicles mean to fans of the brand, but Jeep drivers are a tight-knit community that respects each other, wave to each other on the road, and so forth. So, how does the 2022 Compass hold up against all of the competition, including other models in the Jeep lineup? We think there's plenty to enjoy here, and we also think there's plenty of room for growth too. There already isn't much to nitpick about the 2022 Compass, and we feel that for your average driver, it checks all of the necessary boxes. The only question is where you should go to pick up your Compass? We're Dan Cummins CDJR, and we've got vehicles from all of your favorite brands, including Jeep. Our dealership is one of the best around, and we're not just saying that as our lot is filled with the hottest new releases and a wide range of used vehicles for you to select from. We offer test drives as this is the best way to get a feel for the vehicle, and our sales team will be with you every step of the way to ensure that your questions are properly answered with factual details. So, what are you waiting for? Come visit our dealership, which is located at 2021 Alverson Drive, Paris, KY, and we will get you behind the wheel of Jeep's freshest compact SUV. We can't wait to show you everything the 2022 Compass has to offer! *MSRP subject to change. Please see dealer for details.