Adding to the off-road athleticism of the HEMI-powered Grand Cherokee is Jeep's Quadra-Drive II full-time four-wheel drive
 |
| Adding to the off-road athleticism of the HEMI-powered Grand Cherokee is Jeep's Quadra-Drive II full-time four-wheel drive system. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
system, which includes Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (ELSD) and a centre differential splitting torque 48/52 percent front to rear. Standard with Jeep's 3.7-litre V6 is their lighter duty, power-on-demand, Quadra-Trac I full-time 4-wheel drive set up. The optional 4.7-litre V8 engine receives the more sophisticated Quadra-Trac II system as standard, with the top-line, Quadra-Drive II optional.
Engaging the low-range gears for serious off-roading is no more difficult than placing the shifter in Neutral and flicking an adjacent lever. Substantiating the Grand Cherokee's off-road competence is 216 mm (8.5 in) of ground clearance, complemented by approach and departure angles of 34.1 and 27.1 degrees
 |
| Thanks to the HEMI's tremendous torque, the Grand Cherokee is tow rated at a maximum 3,266 kg (7,200 lbs). (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
respectively. Thanks to the top engine's tremendous torque, the Grand Cherokee is tow rated at a maximum 3,266 kg (7,200 lbs), and that spells one dandy-size boat or camper. At first I was somewhat surprised to note that Jeep doesn't offer a Hill Descent Control system in the Grand Cherokee, something many other SUV manufacturers are including as an option or even standard equipment. But on second thought I suppose its bull-low gearing matched to the HEMI's sizeable torque is enough to slow it down while descending just about any grade just the same.
