For drivers wanting off-road capability, a comfy cabin, and highway hustle, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a grand contender. This versatile vehicle assumes an upscale attitude in its Summit attire. And for 2015, the Summit-trimmed model gets even more decadent. There are three leather interior colors now (Argentina Tan, Morocco Black, Grand Canyon Jeep Brown). Other new-for-2015 interior accessories include a Berber carpet cargo mat and door sills that illuminate “Summit.” A new Active Noise Cancellation system reduces the engine noise heard by occupants. A one-week test drive of the Grand Cherokee Summit demonstrated this SUV’s powerful appeal, soundly reinforced by a 19-speaker/825-watt Harman Kardon audio system.

The 114.8-inch wheelbase Grand Cherokee is powered by one of three engines: a 3.6-liter, 290 horsepower/260 pounds-feet of torque flex-fuel V6 (standard on all versions), a 5.7-liter 360 horsepower/390 pounds-feet of torque V8 (optional on Limited, Overland, and Summit trims), and a 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel producing 240 horsepower/420 pounds-feet of torque. Engines mate to a ZF-supplied 8-speed automatic transmission. Rear wheel drive is standard. The options include choice of three 4x4 systems, an air suspension system, and a traction management system. Grand Cherokee Summit 4x4 with 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and 8-speed transmission collects estimated mpg of 17 city/24 highway and carries a MSRP of $51,995.