Chrysler may be hitting hard times, but new product development is still churning away as the all-new 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been photographed for the very first time in rural Michigan.
Code-named "WL", the Grand Cherokee will have an all-new platform to ride on. A platform it will share with several other vehicles including the next-gen Dodge Durango and the next-gen
Mercedes ML class . While several structures and components will be shared among the Chrysler and Mercedes products, expect the Mercedes vehicles that utilize this new chassis to have some higher end running gear, such as suspension parts, bolted on.While the Jeep Commander was originally slated to move to this new chassis, it has now been killed outright. However, this new chassis has enough flexibility so that the 2010 Grand Cherokee will be offered in 5 passenger and 7 passenger configurations.Design wise, we've been told by sources that have seen it "sans camo" that the Grand Cherokee "looks a lot like the Trailhawk concept unveiled at the
2007 Detroit Auto Show , but with somewhat sharper lines." We can certainly see a 7 slat grill through the camo that reminds us a lot of the Trailhawk's. Beneath the camouflage, we think the doors also have a similar stamping to the Trailhawk concept.Chrysler's new Phoenix V6 engine will be available in this Grand Cherokee, in 3.3L and 3.6L displacements. A 4.7L V8 and 5.7L HEMI are likely to be part of the offerings, as well the GM/Chrysler/BMW hybrid powertain. As always, expect 2WD and 4WD models to be offered. Other tech-bits we hear about are an aluminum front axle and a tow rating of almost 3630 kilos (8000 lbs).Watch for production of this new Jeep to start in January of 2010 at the Detroit Jefferson North Assembly plant.
photo: Chris Doane/Brenda Priddy & Co.