Jeep took a curious path with its next-generation Grand Cherokee. For starters, a three-row version finally hit the market like the Grand Cherokee L, a vehicle that probably should have entered the Jeep lineup years ago. It debuted in January, but the standard two-row version remained hidden. That’s because it won’t be a copy minus a set of seats, and this new spy video reminds us of that.
Recently captured by the people of TFLnow, this video shows both Grand Cherokees together, although they don’t sail through the Colorado mountains like a fleet. The larger Grand Cherokee L is actually towing a standard Grand Cherokee prototype. That shouldn’t be a problem for the SUV, as even with the smaller V6 engine, it can pull 6,200 pounds. With the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8, it can tow 7,200 pounds, but our interest here isn’t the Grand Cherokee L.
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By the way, it is not so much about the prototype, as the video does not show us well. We can see the different front with its angled inlets, not to mention the shorter rear. Judging by the wheels, we would say this is not the 4xe plug-in hybrid test vehicle recently spotted in the area. Honestly, we’re more interested in why it’s on a U-Haul trailer. Maybe there are some troubles in paradise for this Grand Cherokee prototype?
The video mentions that Jeep is towing tests in the mountains, but it appears that a car manufacturer would have its own trailers for such things. In addition, towing tests usually use ballast instead of a real vehicle to avoid an accident that could damage two cars instead of one. That said, how many people rent a U-Haul trailer to pick up a vehicle somewhere? If you want a real test – especially for car enthusiasts who are always looking for project cars – you can’t get more realistic than this.
Still, we think something happened to the five-person Grand Cherokee test vehicle that couldn’t be repaired in the wild. It is seen entering the highway, presumably east towards the Motor City. That’s all part of the development process, but let’s hope all issues are resolved before it goes on sale for the 2022 model year.
