Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary quick spin review.

What is it?

Acknowledgement of Jeep's strong history of all-wheel-drive vehicles dating back to the original general purpose vehicle for US troops in World War II. 

What does it say about me?

That you appreciate Jeep's blend of Americana, rugged imagery and off-road ability. 

Who else is buying it?

Not as many as before as Jeep's sales have slowed in 2016, while the rest of the market - especially SUVs - is on track for new records. This one is for those that celebrate the Jeep brand.

What colours does it come in?

You can have it in grey, white, black or "recon green", an olive hue that calls to mind the brand's military contribution. 

If it were a celebrity, who would it be?

Elvis Presley. It's a big, all-American icon with a sense of duty, though it feels a generation old as a new Grand Cherokee is set to be revealed next year. 

Why would I buy it?

Because it's a capable car that features little touches to help it stand out from other models in the range - there's a new grille, 75th Anniversary badges, beige-coloured wheels and special interior treatment. It also paves the way for a mild update that arrives later this year, bringing features such as a stop-start fuel-saving system and the new gear lever offered here for the first time. 

Will it let me down?

That's a touchy subject, as Jeep's record for reliability and safety recalls is not a strong one. There are certainly safer options on the market.

Does it cost too much?

Priced from $64,500 plus on-road costs, the special-edition Jeep sits $2500 above the equivalent Grand Cherokee equipped with a petrol V6 and four-wheel-drive. Buyers keen on a sharp deal can go for the two-wheel-drive Laredo, currently on sale for $45,000 drive-away with three years of free servicing.

Will I get a deal?

That's a distinct possibility, as the anniversary model's green and beige aesthetic treatment may not be to all tastes. 

Will it get me noticed?

Nope. The Grand Cherokee is a common sight on the road, and brand enthusiasts are likely to be the only people who give the limited-edition version a second glance.

Any gadgets I can brag about?

Jeep's 8.4-inch UConnect stereo is a welcome feature, and the Grand Cherokee's all-wheel-drive system is up for adventure. 

How's the cabin ambience?

It's a little funky, blending black leather trim with tangerine-coloured stitching and bronze touches to the steering wheel, centre console and doors that liven things up a little. 

Does it go?

It goes off-road quite nicely, thank you very much. Straight-line acceleration isn't a particular strength, though Jeep has the 6.4-litre V8-powered Grand Cherokee SRT for that job.

Does it like corners?

More car-like than a Toyota Prado but less agile than a Mazda CX-9, the Jeep occupies the middle ground for SUV dynamics.

What about bumps?

While comfortable in most circumstances, the Grand Cherokees rugged underpinnings aren't tuned strictly for passenger comfort.

Would you buy one?

This sort of special edition isn't my flavour – I'll pass on bronze, tangerine and 'recon', thanks.

What else should I consider?

The 2017 Grand Cherokee arrives locally in coming months, or you could try a Ford Everest – or perhaps Toyota's Prado / Kluger / Fortuna trio.

The Spin:

Forged from freedom.

The Translation:

'Murica. Get some.

2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary pricing and specifications

Price: $64,500

Engine: 3.5-litre petrol V6

Power: 213kW at 6400rpm

Torque: 347Nm at 4300rpm

Transmission: 8-Speed auto, four-wheel-drive

Fuel use: 10.0L/100km