Jeep Jamboree

Three new full-time four-wheel-drive systems are available on the Grand Cherokee. The first of these, the Quadra-Trac I, uses the NV140 single-speed transfer case to provide full-time four-wheel drive with no transfer case lever to shift or driver involvement required.

Jeep says the single-speed transfer case could attract a new group of buyers to the Jeep Grand Cherokee line-up, which is a step up from the entry-level, two-wheel drive versions, which currently account for approximately 25 percent of Jeep vehicle sales.

Quadra-Trac II incorporates the new NV245 transfer case that provides full-time active four-wheel drive, which anticipates and prevents wheel slip for optimum traction during a wide range of conditions. The NV245 also includes electronic shift with a true low-range gear and neutral for towing Grand Cherokee behind another vehicle.

And, finally the Quadra-Drive II uses electronic limited slip differentials (ELSD) in place of the Vari-Lock progressive axles used on the Quadra-Drive system from previous generation Jeep vehicles for even quicker response to changing conditions and greater torque capacity.

New engines

The 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 engine is available on the vehicle and Jeep claims that it provides best-in-class power. Also, the 3.7-litre SOHC V-6 will replace the 4.0-litre I-6 engine in the Jeep Grand Cherokee line-up. The 4.7-litre SOHC V-8 engine will also continue to be available on Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers Chrysler's multi-displacement system (MDS). MDS deactivates half the cylinders of the 5.7-litre HEMI during cruising and light acceleration to increase fuel economy by up to 20 percent, depending on driving conditions.

A sophisticated electronic throttle control (ETC) system tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions, and is said to maintain more consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active than the former mechanical throttle control system.

With approximately seven percent less displacement, the 3.7-litre V-6 produces more peak power than the 4.0-litre I-6 engine it replaces, while producing comparable torque. The engine is also said to be smoother, quieter, more durable and better packaged.

An all-new independent front suspension means front suspension wheel travel is increased 13 percent over the previous generation vehicle, and the turning circle is tighter.

The new five-link rear suspension geometry, including a track bar, also improves lateral stiffness to match that of the front suspension for improved handling.

The Dynamic Handling System (DHS) is standard with the 5.7-litre HEMI engine – a Chrysler Group first application of a hydraulic-controlled active stabiliser system. It is said to significantly reduce body roll, and provide a smoother ride.

Also offered for the first time, electronic stability program (ESP) that uses signals from sensors throughout the vehicle to determine the appropriate brake and throttle adjustments for directional stability.

The new rack-and-pinion steering system has fewer linkages than a recirculating ball steering system, and helps maintain nimbleness and tight turning diameter.

An all-new five-speed automatic transmission offers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy with the 3.7-litre V-6. The carryover 545RFE five-speed automatic transmission used with the 4.7-litre V-8 and 5.7-litre V-8 HEMI has been refined for to increase the vehicle’s towing capacity.

Both transmissions feature Electronic Range Select (ERS) driver interactive shift control for the first time on Grand Cherokee.

A new stamped steel transfer case skid plate mounts to the transmission cross member and fuel tank skidplate to provide off-road protection to the transfer case.