Since the debut of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee in 2004, Chrysler->ke21 has not brought us another model for this lineup. Last year, they teased us with the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee at the 2009 New York Auto Show->ke226, but since then, we have not heard a peep from them on when the production of this upgraded model would begin. That is, until now. CEO, Sergio Marchionne announced that starting on May 3rd, Jeep will begin the production of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee with sales starting in July. This model, built on the Mercedes M-Class->ke1702 platform, is highly anticipated because of its upgraded interior and smoothed out body style. The souped-up SUV offers a choice of two engine types; the new flex-fuel flexible 3.6-liter V-6 engine delivering 280hp and 260lb.-ft. of torque and the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine delivering 360hp and 390 lb.-ft. of torque.

Chrysler has had its fair share of financial woes and has compensated for that by borrowing money from both the U.S. and Canadian governments. In a speech given by Marchionne back in January, the CEO vowed to repay the loans to both governments. The Canadian-Italian, Marchionne, is coming out guns loaded to fulfill his goals for Chrysler since the Chrysler/Fiat merger in January 2009. His plans are to fully refresh and/or replace all models of the existing lineup by 2012. Marchionne said he is pushing for “an attention to quality that is probably unprecedented in Chrysler.”

.