Report: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee production will start May 3

Chrysler is hard at work getting the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee ready for the road, and Automotive News now reports that production is scheduled to start on May 3. Further down the line, Chrysler plans to completely refresh or replace its entire model lineup by 2012, and the new Grand Cherokee carries a tough burden on its shoulders. Not only must it prove to the world that Chrysler is serious about ramping up its overall quality, but it must continue to offer amenities that are attractive to not only off-road enthusiasts while satisfying people looking for a well-to-do family hauler, as well.

As we reported earlier, the new Grand Cherokee will be available with either Chrysler's all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, or the well-liked 5.7-liter Hemi V8. What's more, a much better platform (derived from the Mercedes-Benz M Class) means that the GC will be substantially stiffer than the outgoing model, and with features like an air suspension and Selec-Terrain controller, it should provide have serious off-road credentials, as well.

Look for the 2011 Grand Cherokee to hit Jeep dealers this July, with pricing reportedly starting in the low-$30,000 range.

[Source: Automotive News – sub. req.]