2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Preview

But despite the Grand Cherokee's continued popularity, the new model will arrive in showrooms this fall not a moment too soon. With buyers moving into bigger SUVs

One 2005 Grand Cherokee is driving onstage while another is cresting a makeshift dirt hill from behind, as part of Jeep's impressive introduction of its flagship model. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

and the Grand Cherokee's mild 1998 makeover beginning to show wrinkles, the brand's been in need of a refreshed core product.

For the 2005 model year the new Grand Cherokee delivers on most of the goods that have become standard issue in the hotly competitive midsize SUV niche, save for a seven-passenger version (due in about a year and possibly dubbed the Wagoneer if DCX insiders are to be believed). Revamped styling that draws on Jeep's heritage plays a major role in the redo, but Jeep also promises that the new Grand Cherokee will deliver a better ride and best-in-class traction.

But the big addition to the Grand Cherokee lineup that will appeal most to enthusiasts is undoubtedly the appearance of the HEMI engine in the Jeep lineup. The engine displaces 5.7-liters just like the Ram pickup and new Durango SUV, but unlike these Dodge products the Cherokee's top engine will make use

A new 2005 Grand Cherokee makes its way up and over a rocky crag in a display of its 4x4 prowess during the April introduction. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

of Chrysler Group's new cylinder deactivation technology dubbed MDS, for Multi-Displacement System. MDS is said to increase fuel economy by up to 20 percent while still delivering 325 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque, not quite as much power or torque as in the 300C, but still the highest output in its class.

New developments such as high-speed electronic controls, sophisticated algorithms controlling the systems and the integration of electronic throttle control have made the technology possible. As a result Chrysler Group reports a seamless deactivation and activation process, needing only 40 milliseconds (0.040 seconds) to transition from eight-cylinders to four or vice versa. I'd have to agree. I drove the system in Chrysler's HEMI-equipped 300C and couldn't tell when it transitioned from four to eight cylinders or vice-versa.