Interior and Suspension Refinement Plus HEMI Power
I first caught sight of Jeep's new 2005 Grand Cherokee at a Chrysler Group new model preview in Detroit last
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| A host of classic Jeeps made their way through New York's makeshift Bryant Park stage, including an example of the legendary Willys military conveyance that endeared itself to WWII G.I.s, making the brand so popular after they got home. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The same SUV in a different color showed up on stage in New York for its official launch in early April, and in Jeep style it was a spectacular event. The rough and rugged brand had sectioned off and covered a strip a parking lot that lies next to the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan with a monstrous tent, and built an obstacle course of dirt hills and makeshift bridges for New Yorkers to test out the Grand Cherokee's legendary mettle. During its introduction the new model shot up the tallest hill and down the other
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| Jeep's introduction of the all-new 2005 Grand Cherokee included an appearance by the model's 1993 originator. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
No one had trouble recognizing the 2005 model for what it is, exactly why the Jeep division made sure not to stray too far from the formula that has made its flagship model such a major success over the years. It sports a more Jeep-like corporate face, meaning the Euro-style flush headlight clusters have been rounded to mimic the classically styled TJ/Liberty design language, while a much stronger looking roofline is held up by robust A-, B-, C- and D-pillars, giving it more of the Dodge Magnum's beefiness than its previous lithe, athletic stance. Its angular rear lighting treatment is attractive, and quite unique in the segment.