2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Exterior Review [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 51 Grand Cherokee reviews and test drives.
Exterior - What the Auto Press Says
Reviewers largely approve of the slight styling tweaks made to the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee's exterior. The Detroit News concludes that it's "a sharp looking vehicle. It's distinctively Jeep, with its seven-slotted grille stretched wider and round head lights added in the makeover."
4Wheel & Off-Road likes the new appearance, calling it "athletic and contemporary" and noting that the new position of the headlights makes for "a more dominant and expressive front view." Most note, however, that any changes are very subtle. In fact, Cars.com says, "Casual observers probably won't be able to tell the difference between a 2008 Grand Cherokee and a 2007 model."
Motor Trend says the most noticeable exterior change is a repositioning of the fog lights, "which now sit near the bottom of the redesigned, two-piece front fascia. The front grille is slightly enlarged, while the headlight housing has been redesigned for a more rounded appearance." Another change is the lower front fascia, which now allows for the removal of the lower half "in case off-roaders want the ultimate in front-end approach and departure angles," says Popular Mechanics. New for 2008 are High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, which are standard on Overland models. They come with an autoleveling system that automatically adjusts the angle of light based on the vehicle's load and ride height.
Though most of the Grand Cherokee trims look very similar, the performance-minded SRT8 "demands functional exterior enhancements that contribute to performance and resonate with the brand character," says the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "The SRT8's lowered, aggressive stance shows its unmistakable Jeep identity endowed with SRT DNA." Variances in this trim include dual four-inch chrome exhaust tips, sill extensions and forged 20-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels.
