We were within inches of a new Toyota 4runner TRD Pro. It had many of the same attributes I liked about the LR3 but with a few caveats. First was the overall tech that was included. The navigation was similar to the LR3, but this was a new 2018 model with a 5" touchscreen and a powertrain that was relevant when I was in college. It was very cool in feeling old school but for over $50,000 I needed to feel like I had gotten my money's worth.

Enter the newest member of Borella Family Adventure - Our new 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk.

I know this seems confusing considering I had so many good things to say about our loved LR3 but hear me out. The LR3 was approaching 13 years old and nearly 140,000 miles. It was only a matter of time before we were stranded on a trail, roadway or just the middle of nowhere. It was time to hand her off and look elsewhere. Again, all the same, considerations were taken when looking for the new rig.

There were other considerations like the Colorado ZR2 and the awful Toyota Tacoma (sorry, but the last one was awesome, Toyota just gave up here!). Ultimately we still liked the SUV. The Trailhawk model lends to all of Jeep top off-road technology like ELSD for the rear diff that can perform at a 100% lock, air suspension that allows for over 11" of ground clearance and heavy-duty Mopar Rock Rails. Now I know a lot of you are already twitching at the previously reliability ratings of Chrysler products. The reality is almost every new vehicle has been incredibly reliable at this point. Now before the Toyota fanboys start torching my blog, remember that every dealership has a service center attached. THEY ALL HAVE ISSUES EVENTUALLY.

The best attributes to the Jeep is that it is incredibly comfortable on-road, sporty enough through the twisty's and adept at most off-road situations. Another honorable mention here is the MPG's. Rated at 25 mpg HWY and 18 CITY is far better than the LR3 and even the 4runner. The 25mpg combined with a HUGE 26 US gallon fuel tank means that a 650-mile range is possible.

The interior has an 8.4" Uconnect touchscreen dubbed "UConnect 4C". Apple Car Play is equipped as well as a very handy "Off-Road Pages" screen.

The Off-Road Pages gives you vital information like QuadraLift level, QuadraDrive diff lock status, Pitch and Roll, Steering Angle, Accessory Gauge, and Current Location/Elevation. If this all seems gimmick, you are definitely wrong. Knowing which wheel is at the end of its travel, steering wheel angle and locker engagement is critical info on a steep dangerous climb.

The four-wheel-drive system, named Quadra-Drive II consists of an infinitely locking center and rear differential. This system can not only direct 100% of power front to rear but also side to side. A rear differential is an ELSD unit but because it's not utilizing a clutch pack setup, the serviceability should be considerably better than the rover.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk

The total storage is not as high as the LR3 so special considerations have to be made. With 2 adults, 1 child and an 80Lb Golden Retriever, we knew we would be running short on space. A roof rack is produced by several manufactures, but with the expansive pano roof, Nicole really wanted to leave that space open. I cannot share details yet, but we added a new member to the fleet but due to quality issues the jeep ended up being purchased back from FCA almost exactly 1 year after ownership. I have to say that I did love the ride and drive. it was more than capable for 98% of the trails we went on and I am sure with some small adjustments it would have excelled even further. we were offered a replacement vehicle but after my 3rd Chrysler product that had major issues early in life, we decided to switch directions.