The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee made another public appearance this week at the Chicago Auto Show. Its good looks inside and out, powerful engine options, smooth yet competent suspension and newly found luxury status will make a driving impact for the New Jeep Brand.

The exterior design is much more upscale, with styling cues taken from the Mercedes M-Class. The exterior design wasn’t the only thing that Mercedes contributed to the long awaited SUV.

There has been plenty of technology and luxury implemented into the interior. Real wood accents, lots of leather, and heated seats for the front passengers as well as rear passengers. A few other great options that are new for the 2011 model; twin-panel panoramic roof, an intelligent remote start (which automatically heats or cools the interior based on outside air temp), a collision warning system, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot/rear cross path detection system.

Under the hood of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a V6 engine producing 280 horsepower while still providing competitive fuel efficiency. Also available is a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 producing 360 horsepower and is an attractive choice for those that require high towing capabilities.

Ride quality has been improved greatly without removing the Trail Rated suspension. Suspension has been one of the biggest improvements, now sporting a 4-wheel independent suspension with air suspension allowing the SUV to adjust the ride level by 4 inches. Electronic limited-slip differential provides superior off-road traction.