Jeep Grand Cherokee scores sub-par four-star safety rating
Five-seater petrol models fall short but Jeep Grand Cherokee L seven-seaters at five ANCAP starsThe new-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee has failed to achieve a maximum five-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) across the premium family SUV’s full model range, with a sub-par four-star result handed down to five-seater petrol-engined variants.
The long-wheelbase seven-seat Jeep Grand Cherokee L receives the maximum five stars, as will the incoming five-seat Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that’s due to arrive later this year.
According to ANCAP, testing identified a difference in the performance of the seatbelts fitted to second-row outboard seats in the short-wheelbase Jeep Grand Cherokee, which resulted in a ‘nil’ score applied for rear passenger chest protection.
Under ANCAP protocols, a nil score (red, or Poor) for a critical body region “automatically limits a vehicle’s overall star rating to four stars irrespective of the overall percentage score for adult occupant protection”.
ANCAP’s report reveals the five-seater would otherwise have been awarded a maximum five-star rating.
Overall, the Grand Cherokee was awarded 81 per cent for adult occupant protection, 93 for child occupant protection, 81 for vulnerable road user protection and 84 for safety assist.
The long-wheelbase Grand Cherokee L and the forthcoming 4xe PHEV scored the same overall results in each major category except adult occupant protection, where it scored 83 per cent.
“The long-wheelbase Jeep Grand Cherokee L and short-wheelbase PHEV achieved sound results across all areas of testing and assessment, seeing them eligible for the five-star rating,” said ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg.
“The ‘poor’ level of chest protection recorded for short-wheelbase petrol variants, however, is an area we’d encourage Jeep to address.
“We strongly encourage Jeep to implement a production change to improve the safety performance of the rear outboard seatbelts.”
The new Jeep Grand Cherokee has also been subject to a couple of safety recalls in Australia since launch, involving issues with its rear suspension and steering.
Related: Five ANCAP stars for new Mercedes-Benz GLC and Land Rover Discovery Sport
Related: New Volkswagen Amarok nabs five-star ANCAP safety rating
Related: ANCAP: Hyundai IONIQ 6 and Lexus RX set new safety records
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