The 2011 iteration of the Grand Cherokee is an important launch for Chrysler, a company that's been hamstrung by poor sales and an even worse reputation since being bailed out by the federal government and its subsequent takeover by Fiat and that company's CEO, Sergio Marchionne. Chrysler has a number of new models slated to hit dealer floors -- many of them based on Fiat underpinnings -- though most of them are still a ways away. The new Grand Cherokee is, without a doubt, an important litmus test as to the company's near future -- and perhaps beyond. Chrysler really needs to get this one right.

As I've mentioned before, I come from a family that has owned pretty much nothing but Jeeps for the past several years, everything from the Grand Cherokee to the discontinued Cherokee 4x4 version (that was a great car). I do have an affinity for the vehicles, and I hope this one is a winner for Chrysler.

The Grand Cherokee will start at $30,995.