Jeep’s confidence is growing in Europe since the introduction of the small Avenger. As well as upcoming new electric cars, the American brand has decided to launch its latest Grand Cherokee model in Europe and the UK to stake a claim at the top of the luxury SUV market.

While North American customers can buy one with a V6, strict European emissions laws prevent anything other than the plug-in hybrid model launching here. That loses it enthusiast points, but makes it a more rational choice.

Jeep is convinced this is the most plush Grand Cherokee it’s ever made, but assures us that the large SUV hasn’t lost any of its ability off-road. We’ve tested that claim, and we’re inclined to agree. Most importantly, we’ve spent plenty of time in the car, and to understand more about how we’ve reached our conclusions, check out how we test cars here at Parkers.

For the UK market, the Grand Cherokee is available in four different specifications – allowing you to choose between versions that are more focused and capable off-road like Trailhawk or filled with more toys and luxuries like Overland and Summit. Trailhawk includes lots of off-road equipment like tougher tyres and a more sophisticated four-wheel drive system, while top-spec Summt includes luxuries like night vision for the road ahead and a passenger display.

Unfortunately for Jeep, there’s a lot of competition it has to fend off. There are plenty of alternatives from Germany, including the BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes-Benz GLE and Audi Q7, as well as the Range Rover Sport.

Over the next few pages, we’ll provide our assessment of the Jeep Grand Cherokee considering its practicality, comfort, technology, fuel economy and driving experience before offering our final verdict on the car. Click through this review to find out whether the SUV could suit your lifestyle. If you’re curious about how we test cars, we have a page for that, too.