A host of technological advances...
Apart from the very impressive engine, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee features a number of other new advances that further cement its reputation as a no-nonsense, off-road ready SUV.
Naturally, the Jeep features a full-time 4-wheel drive system (QuadraDrive II), with a 2-speed transfer case and electronic limited slip differentials, front and back. But also included in the technical specs is the available Hill Descent Control (HDC), which automatically controls speed on downhill runs.
With the transfer case in the 4WD Low position and the HDC button activated, the system is armed for use and comes into play whenever sensors indicate a serious grade hill is being negotiated. HDC uses an electronic brake control combined with the lower gear and engine braking to control speed whether going forward or in reverse.
Hill Start Assist (HSA) is another option that aids in navigating inclines. This system automatically holds the brake pressure for two seconds after the brake pedal is released, allowing the driver to switch to the gas pedal the vehicle rolling backwards. The brakes gradually release their hold as the throttle is applied to help ensure smooth getaways.
Yet another safety feature is trailer sway damping, which is offered as part of the optional towing package on the new Grand Cherokee. As the name indicates, this system helps control a trailer from weaving in the opposite direction of the vehicle doing the towing.
...and safety features
The days of SUVs being questioned for their inherent safety are rapidly vanishing. Over the past few years, manufacturers have really started loading up their larger vehicles with an enormous number of safety features and this new Jeep is no exception.
The Grand Cherokee comes armed with all sorts of active safety technology including 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (to compensate for a vehicle loaded down with weighty gear) and brake assist (to shorten stopping distances in emergency situations). The Jeep's electronic stability control program includes Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), which applies the brakes and/or throttle to prevent a potential rollover.
On the passive front, the standard offering includes multi-stage air bags for front-seat occupants, side-curtain air bags, a tire pressure monitoring system and the Enhanced Accident Response System. This final feature automatically turns on the interior lights, unlocks the doors and shuts off the fuel supply when the air bags deploy. A rear-view camera is also included in the base model, whether the optional navigation system is ordered or not.
All in all, an impressive list of safety features.
Apart from the very impressive engine, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee features a number of other new advances that further cement its reputation as a no-nonsense, off-road ready SUV.
Naturally, the Jeep features a full-time 4-wheel drive system (QuadraDrive II), with a 2-speed transfer case and electronic limited slip differentials, front and back. But also included in the technical specs is the available Hill Descent Control (HDC), which automatically controls speed on downhill runs.
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| The CRD, as all Grand Cherokees, is only available in a 4WD configuration in Canada. |
With the transfer case in the 4WD Low position and the HDC button activated, the system is armed for use and comes into play whenever sensors indicate a serious grade hill is being negotiated. HDC uses an electronic brake control combined with the lower gear and engine braking to control speed whether going forward or in reverse.
Hill Start Assist (HSA) is another option that aids in navigating inclines. This system automatically holds the brake pressure for two seconds after the brake pedal is released, allowing the driver to switch to the gas pedal the vehicle rolling backwards. The brakes gradually release their hold as the throttle is applied to help ensure smooth getaways.
Yet another safety feature is trailer sway damping, which is offered as part of the optional towing package on the new Grand Cherokee. As the name indicates, this system helps control a trailer from weaving in the opposite direction of the vehicle doing the towing.
...and safety features
The days of SUVs being questioned for their inherent safety are rapidly vanishing. Over the past few years, manufacturers have really started loading up their larger vehicles with an enormous number of safety features and this new Jeep is no exception.
The Grand Cherokee comes armed with all sorts of active safety technology including 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (to compensate for a vehicle loaded down with weighty gear) and brake assist (to shorten stopping distances in emergency situations). The Jeep's electronic stability control program includes Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), which applies the brakes and/or throttle to prevent a potential rollover.
On the passive front, the standard offering includes multi-stage air bags for front-seat occupants, side-curtain air bags, a tire pressure monitoring system and the Enhanced Accident Response System. This final feature automatically turns on the interior lights, unlocks the doors and shuts off the fuel supply when the air bags deploy. A rear-view camera is also included in the base model, whether the optional navigation system is ordered or not.
All in all, an impressive list of safety features.
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| Front and back heated seats come standard on the CRD. |