2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets Facelift, Improved MPG

In a mid-cycle refresh, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee will get a list of updates that will, among other things, improve fuel efficiency.

That improvement comes courtesy of a new eight-speed automatic transmission that was first introduced to the Chrysler line in 2011 in the 300 to a warm reception as well as paddle shifters to be available on all models. As Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne announced yesterday, the brand will bring both eight- and nine-speed automatics to market in several vehicles as early as the 2013 model year in an effort to improve fuel efficiency as much as 16 percent.

It isn’t likely that the Grand Cherokee will see quite such a drastic improvement given that it will get the eight-speed according to a series of tweets by JeepGarage, but better mileage is still a sure bet. Aside from quenching some of the big SUV’s thirst, Jeep will also offer a larger eight-inch navigation touch screen, which is a 1.5-inch improvement over the current model. Other minor interior changes and a revised rear fascia are on the way in 2014.

Finally, a special version of the 2013 SRT8 called the “Alpine Edition,” which will probably be nothing more than a special trim package. Expect 20-inch five-spoke “vapor chrome” wheels and a bright white paint finish among other items if chatter on enthusiast forums carries any credence.