The Grand Cherokee marks the first application of front and rear Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (ELSD) worldwide, and along with Electronic Stability Program (ESP) no doubt makes for extremely capable on- and off-road dynamics.
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| The new SUV's center console and stack has been much improved, with higher tactile quality surfaces and better controls. The overall design is more attractive too, more upscale and refined. The 5-speed automatic transmission's sequential manual mode will be appreciated both on and off the road. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
"Taking all this into consideration, it means the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee's durability, premium amenities, technological advancements and fuel efficiency will lead to an overall cost of ownership improvement for our customers," added Smith.
The entry-level Laredo gets Jeep's Quadra-Trac I full-time 4-wheel drive, proven to be an ideal all-weather traction system for every type of terrain. Assisting the 4WD is standard Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), the first for getting off the line cleanly and reducing slippage in inclement weather, and the second to offset lateral forces that could otherwise throw the vehicle into a skid and the driver to lose control.
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| It was hard to get near the new Grand Cherokee after its introduction as crowds of journalists swept over the SUV to get a closer look. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Connecting the SUV to the road are grippy all-season tires framing attractive 17-inch Satin Silver finish rims, large in diameter for a standard wheel and tire package. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard too, plus additional amenities such as a power actuated 8-way driver's seat, driver and front passenger adjustable lumbar support, mini trip computer, advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and last but not least a cargo area featuring a reversible load-floor and water-resistant storage compartment, similar to that on the Dodge Magnum.
While the 3.7-liter V6 is up on output over the old I-6, at 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, some will want the extra oomph of a V8. Answering the call is Chrysler Group's trusted SOHC 4.7-liter unit, developing 230 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The 4.7 bridges the gap between the entry-level V6 and top-tier 5.7-liter HEMI.