Tag: Grand Cherokee

  • 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee UK

    Jeep has announced the new 2011 Grand Cherokee UK, which boasts superb material quality, improved fuel economy and nice off-road capabilities.

    The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee UK features new turbocharged 3.0 litre V6 CRD engine with 237BHP (177 kW) at 4000RPM and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 2800RPM. This means up to 10 per cent more power and eight per cent more torque than the engine it replaces.

    The engine achieves staggering 8.3 litres per 100 km (34 mpg) on combined cycle and 218 g/km of CO2. From a retail perspective the improvement in CO2 emissions represents a saving of £1 220 in current VED taxation over a five year period compared with the outgoing model.

    The engine of course meets EURO5 regulations. The performance is perfect – 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 203 km/h (126mph).

    The Grand Cherokee range starts from £36 795 OTR with the 3.0 CRD V6 Limited, while the flagship Overland starts from £43 995 OTR.

    Check out the trim levels and pricing, below!

    2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee UK front
    2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee UK front

    2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee UK:

    All of the following equipment comes as standard on both trim levels:

    • Sentry Key® Theft Deterrent System
    • Thatcham Category 1 Alarm and Immobiliser
    • Active head restraints
    • Advanced Multi-Stage front airbags
    • Side curtain airbags
    • Supplementary side airbags
    • Anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes
    • Centre rear 3-point seat belt
    • Child seat upper tether anchorages
    • Electronic Stability Control
    • Enhanced Accident Response System
    • Traction Control
    • Front seat mounted side airbags
    • Laminated front door glass
    • Power locks
    • Rear fog lamps
    • Anti-sway damping system

    The top-of-the-range Overland version possesses exclusive and state-of-the-art features, which are options on most of the Grand Cherokee’s rivals:

    • Uconnect navigation system with Media Centre 6.5” touch screen display and 30GB hard drive
    • Blind-spot and rear cross path detection (Overland only)
    • Adaptive cruise control (Overland only)
    • Forward collision warning (Overland only)
    • Quadra-Lift air suspension

    Limited

    This specification features a high degree of equipment in all areas: comfort, capability, in-car entertainment, technology, design and luxury:

    • Quadra-Trac II®  4WD system
    • 3.0 CRD V6 237bhp
    • Thatcham Category 1 Alarm and Immobiliser
    • Selec-Terrain™ system
    • Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with headlamp washers and auto-levelling
    • Rain sensitive windscreen wipers
    • Air-conditioning with dual zone Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)
    • Media Centre with 6.5” touch screen display and 30GB hard drive with 6700 song capacity
    • Keyless Enter-N-Go™
    • 18” Alloy wheels
    • Fog lamps
    • Illuminated entry
    • Hill Descent Control
    • Hill Start Assist
    • Bright exhaust tailpipes
    • Uconnect Bluetooth with voice command
    • iPod® connector with remote USB port
    • ParkSense®  front and rear park assist system
    • ParkView® rear back-up camera
    • Leather trimmed seats
    • Heated front and rear seats
    • Power 8-way driver and passenger seat memory
    • Power tilt / telescopic steering column
    • Alpine surround sound system (9 speakers and subwoofer)
    • Tyre pressure monitoring display
    • Power folding multi-function door mirrors

    Limited – Options

    This trim level can be further enhanced with the following options:

    • Rear DVD with single sunroof
    • CommandView panoramic sunroof
    • Performance pack (20″ wheels with 265/60 R20 performance tyres, performance brakes and sports suspension)
    • Navigation & Luxury pack (Uconnect navigation system, heated steering wheel and power liftgate)
    • Deep-tint sunscreen glass

    Overland

    The standard equipment on the Overland reaches unparalleled levels for the segment, using the most refined materials together with advanced technological features. On top of the Limited specification, the Overland model adds the following items:

    • 20” alloy wheels
    • Performance brakes with sports suspension
    • Cargo net
    • Door courtesy lamps
    • Premium Nappa leather trimmed seats with contrast stitching
    • Ventilated front seats
    • Leather covered dashboard
    • Dark wood interior trim inserts
    • Deep-tint sunscreen glass
    • Power liftgate
    • Heated steering wheel
    • Quadra-Lift™ air suspension
    • CommandView panoramic sunroof
    • Overland interior detailing
    • Uconnect navigation system
    • Blind-spot and rear cross path detection
    • Adaptive cruise control
    • Forward collision warning

    Pricing

    The Grand Cherokee range starts from £36 795 OTR with the 3.0 CRD V6 Limited, while the flagship Overland starts from £43 995 OTR. Optional special paint on all models comes at £670 RRP, while prices for the other options are as follows:

    • Rear DVD with single sunroof (Limited)                        £1,700 RRP
    • Rear DVD with single sunroof retrofit (Overland)          £700 RRP
    • CommandView panoramic sunroof (Limited)               £1,200 RRP
    • Performance pack (Limited)                                           £2,000 RRP
    • Navigation & Luxury pack (Limited)                               £1,500 RRP
    • Deep-tint sunscreen glass (Limited)                              £350 RRP

    Source: Chrysler UK

  • 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

    Jeep has introduced the new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 at the 2011 New York Auto Show (NAIAS). It is the most powerful SUV, which the manufacturer has ever made.

    The power comes from a enormous 6.4 liter HEMI V8 with 465HP (342 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft), which is available from just 2800RPM and up to 6000RPM. 0 to 100 km/h is reached in 4.8 seconds and the top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). With such performance, the big SUV is a real rival to the mighty BMW X5M, ML63 AMG and Cayenne Turbo.

    2012 Cherokee SRT8  is able to pull up to 0.9 G on the skid pad, so it is not fast only in straight line, but the big SUV is able to turn very well. The reason is a new adaptive damping suspension managed by new Selec-Track system.

    The new Cherokee SRT8 offers paddle shifters on the steering wheel, better interior quality and brutal exterior. It also comes with a mind-blowing 19-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio surround-sound system with total power of 825 Watts and a 10” subwoofer.

    2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is scheduled to hit the market in the third quarter 2011. Price list is not announced, yet.
    2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

    Safety and security:

    • Active head restraints: Deploy in the event of a rear collision. Restraints are designed to reduce injuries by minimizing the gap between the head restraint and the passenger’s head
    • Active turn signals: Turn signal flashes three times when stalk is depressed for one second to indicate a lane change
    • Adaptive cruise control (ACC): The system decreases the vehicle’s pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle in the same lane, or when another vehicle pulls into the same lane. The system will accelerate to the pre-set speed when the vehicle in front speeds up or moves into another lane. ACC will maintain a driver adjustable distance between the vehicle and the one in front of it, allowing the use of cruise control in light traffic without having to continuously adjust settings
    • Advanced multi-stage air bags: Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact Meets FMVSS 208 advanced air bag requirements for smaller, out-of-position occupants
    • Anti-lock brake system (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions
    • Anti-lock brake system with rough-road detection: Anti-lock brake system capable of detecting if the vehicle is driving on a rough road by the oscillations in the wheel speed signals. When rough road is detected on off-road surfaces or trails, ABS enters a different pressure control where it will hold the brake pressure for longer pulses
    • BeltAlert: Activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without belted front-seat occupants
    • Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM): Uses dual ultra-wideband radar sensors to aid the driver when changing lanes, or if being passed by or passing unseen vehicles. The system notifies the driver of vehicle(s) in their blind spot via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
    • Brake Assist: In an emergency brake situation, the system applies maximum braking power, minimizing the stopping distance
    • Brake Override: When a disagreement exists between the throttle and the brake, the brake signal causes the engine controller to reduce engine power, allowing the operator to stop the car
    • Brake-traction control system (BTCS): Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning
      during acceleration from a stop or during slow speeds by applying individual brakes to the slipping wheel(s)
    • Child seat anchor system: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats
    • Constant-force Retractors (CFR): Regulates the force exerted on the occupant by the seat belt, and then gradually releases seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner
    • Electronic roll mitigation (ERM): An extension of electronic stability control (ESC). Uses input from ESC sensors to anticipate if the vehicle is at risk of entering a potential roll situation, then applies the brakes individually and modulates the throttle position as needed
    • Electronic stability control (ESC): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the benefit in critical driving situations such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions including snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the vehicle’s path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver’s intended path
    • Energy-absorbing steering column: The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management
    • Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): Makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on the interior lighting and unlocking doors after air bag deployment. Also shuts off flow of fuel to the engine
    • Express Up/Down Windows: One-touch powered express up/down window button located on the front driver and passenger-side door
    • Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Using forward-facing radar sensors, this system detects when the vehicle may be approaching another vehicle too rapidly and alerts the driver so the driver can determine what action must be taken in order to prevent the vehicle from a collision
    • High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination
    • Hill-start Assist (HSA): Assists drivers when starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal. If throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released
    • Keyless Enter-N-Go: When an individual enters the vehicle, electronic sensors detect if the vehicle key fob is present. The vehicle will then allow the individual to push a button to start the vehicle without having to insert the key into the ignition
    • Knee bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant during impact, enabling air bags to work effectively
    • Navigation system: Voice-activated navigation system available with real-time traffic to provide precise guidance to destination through the use of global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology
    • ParkSense® rear park assist system: Assists at low speeds in reverse to detect stationary objects. Consists of audible warnings for the driver and has a display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) integrated into the instrument cluster
    • ParkView® rear back-up camera: Provides a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle, giving the driver greater peace of mind before reversing at low speeds. Contains grid line to aid the driver when maneuvering into parking spaces or narrow areas. Also aids in lining up a trailer to the vehicle’s trailer hitch, when so equipped. The image is displayed on the navigation screen when the transmission is shifted into Reverse
    • Power tilt-and-telescoping steering column with memory: Allows steering column to tilt and move toward or away from the driver to achieve a safe and comfortable distance from the advanced multi-stage front driver air bag, if deployed
    • Rain Brake Support: Uses the ESC pump to occasionally push brake pads lightly against brake rotors in rainy conditions in order to keep rotors dry
    • Rain-sensing wipers: A driver convenience feature that automatically senses moisture on the windshield and activates wipers
    • Ready Alert Braking: Anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and uses the ESC pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application
    • Rear Cross Path (RCP): In parking lot situations, this system warns drivers backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle. It activates any time the vehicle is in Reverse. The driver is notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind the vehicle via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
    • Remote (fob) operated windows (front windows – down only): Enable an individual to cool down the vehicle passively by opening front windows remotely
    • Remote keyless entry: Locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
    • Remote start: Conveniently starts the engine and activates key comfort settings based on ambient conditions by using the key fob while maintaining vehicle security
    • Rollover crash sensing: Senses a rollover and deploys seat belt pretensioners and/or standard full-length side-curtain air bags as needed
    • Seat belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat belt pretensioners to remove slack in the seat belt system, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant’s head and torso
    • Sentry Key® engine Immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will shut off after a few seconds
    • Signal mirrors: Signal lamp built into the housing of exterior mirrors allows turn signals to be viewed from the front, as well as the sides and rear of the vehicle in order to alert oncoming traffic and pedestrians
    • SmartBeam® headlamps: Headlamp system adjusts to ambient light and oncoming traffic to deliver maximum lighting
    • Standard full-length side-curtain air bags: Extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. This type of air bag is housed in the headliner just above side windows
    • Standard seat-mounted side thorax air bags: Provide enhanced protection to thedriver and front outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. Standard side air bags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat
    • Three-point seat belts: Front outboard seating positions and all rear seating positions have lap and shoulder belts
    • Tire-pressure monitoring (TPM): Informs driver when tire pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver and the system
    • Trailer-sway control (TSC): Reduces trailer sway and improves handling in adverse towing conditions caused by crosswinds and traffic. The system monitors the vehicle’s movement relative to the driver’s intended path, then applies alternating brake pressure to slow the vehicle and then increases the pressure on one front wheel in order to counteract the sway induced by the trailer
    • Uconnect® Phone: In-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows customers to talk on their Bluetooth compatible phone with your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. The built-in phonebook sync feature automatically downloads as many as 1,000 phone book entries from supported phones, which can then be selected by simply saying contact name

    Source: Jeep

  • 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee – €52 200 in Europe

    2011 Grand Cherokee is now available at the European market. The big SUV is priced at €52 200 and it is currently only offered in Overland trim, which is the highest available on the American market.

    The engine range features three choices, two petrol and a diesel. The entry-level is a Pentastar 3.6 liter V6 with 286HP and 347Nm (255 lb-ft), while the big 5.7 liter V8 develops 352HP and 520Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque. (more…)

  • 2011 Jeep Compass

    2011 Jeep Compass is finally unveiled. The SUV borrowed a lot of design ideas from the Grand Cherokee and the interior directly from the Patriot.

    2011 Compass features a modified fascias, a revised grille, restyled headlights and a new hood. It also has there’s a body-color spoiler, plastic body cladding, and standard 17″ rims, while the 18″ wheels are optional.

    Inside, as we mentioned, you can mistake it with the Patriot. Still, it features soft-touch door panels, a new center armrest, an updated steering wheel, and better seats. (more…)

  • Mopar Accessories line for 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

    Mopar has announced that an exclusive line of more than 60 accessories are now available for the undoubtedly stylish eye-catcher 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (more…)

  • Jeep with revised engine line-up for Europe

    The updated engine range will be presented at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. It includes 2.8 liter turbo diesel for Cherokee, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. The Stop/Start engine technology will be presented, too. Furthermore, Compass and Patriot will be introduced with 2.2 liter turbo diesel.

    The new 2.8 liter turbo diesel in Grand Cherokee, Wrangler and Cherokee produces 200PS (147kW) and 460Nm (339 lb-ft). The Wrangler will be equipped with stop/start technology (manual model only) and an optional five-speed automatic. (more…)

  • STARTECH refines the Jeep Grand Cherokee

    STARTECH, the Germany tuners showcased at Frankfurt its exclusive refining programme for the Jeep’s ultimate SUV – the Grand Cherokee. Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland’s face has been through  some serious changes for achieving this stunning high-end vision. (more…)

  • Jeep Introduces 2011 Grand Cherokee

    Nearly 18 years ago, Jeep invented the premium SUV segment with the introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. More than 4 million sales later, Jeep improves the formula and hits the sweet spot of real-world capability and on-road refinement with the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (more…)

  • New Rocky Mountain Edition Models Add Excitement and Value to 2009 Jeep Lineup

    New 2009 Jeep® Patriot, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition models expand the fun, freedom, utility and available best-in-class 4×4 capability that Jeep is known for—now with even more customer features at a great value. (more…)

  • All-new HEMI® with Fuel-Saving MDS Technology Earns Ward’s 2009 “10 Best Engines” Award

    Now in its second generation, the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine has once again earned a place on Ward’s distinguished “2009 10 Best Engines” list. Relentlessly delivering powertrain excellence, Chrysler LLC has earned Ward’s “10 Best” award six times in the last seven years with the iconic 5.7-liter HEMI engine.

    “The HEMI earns the honor not on pure emotion or brute force but with advanced new technology such as variable valve timing, which allows cruising in four-cylinder mode about 40 percent of the time, which is twice as much as the previous-generation Multi-Displacement System cylinder-deactivation system,” said Tom Murphy – Executive Director of Ward’s AutoWorld magazine. “A number of Ward’s testers managed to top 19 mpg (12.3 L/100 km) with the HEMI, putting it in line with certain premium V-6s tested.”

    With improved Multi-Displacement System (MDS) technology for increased fuel efficiency, added refinement and more power, the all-new 2009 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine delivers world-class performance and technology in nine Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with MDS technology is available on 2009 Chrysler 300C, Chrysler Aspen, Jeep® Grand Cherokee, Jeep Commander, Dodge Charger, Dodge Durango, Dodge Ram Heavy Duty series and the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 and Dodge Challenger.

    2009 HEMI for all-new Dodge Ram
    5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine

    “We are honored to have our iconic HEMI engine recognized by Ward’s for a sixth time,” said Bob Lee, Vice President – Powertrain Product Engineering Team, Chrysler LLC. “HEMI is synonymous with performance, and now — thanks to VVT, expanded four-cylinder mode in our MDS system, and a host of other technologies — Chrysler’s new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine delivers more fuel efficiency and refinement, along with even more power.”

    While the new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine maintains the key architecture that makes “HEMI” synonymous with “performance,” Chrysler powertrain engineers improved engine breathing and added new technologies, including Variable Valve Timing (VVT), that substantially improve fuel economy and refinement.

    The HEMI’s new VVT improves fuel economy in two ways. First, it reduces the engine’s pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more work to be transferred to the crankshaft instead of being rejected out of the exhaust port as heat. Essentially, VVT improves engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.

    Dodge’s fuel-saving MDS system seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power from the new 5.7-liter HEMI engine is in demand. This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not required, without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.

    HEMI Badge
    HEMI Badge

    An expanded MDS operating range in the new-for-2009 HEMI will allow customers to realize an even-greater fuel economy benefit. Chrysler estimates that since its inception of MDS in 2005, more than 100 million gallons of gasoline have been saved, along with reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of close to one million

    When MDS is operating, it is indicated by a “Fuel Saver” readout in the vehicles Electronic Vehicle Information Center.

    In addition to VVT and expanded MDS operating range, the HEMI’s fuel economy and performance improvements result from an increased compression ratio, an active intake manifold with long runners for low-end torque and short runners for high-rpm power, improved cylinder head port flow efficiency, and reduced restriction exhaust and induction systems.

    Numerous other hardware upgrades were implemented to build on the quality, reliability and durability reputation of the HEMI engine. These include crankshaft structural upgrades, a dual-mass crankshaft damper, new piston design, improved valve-spring design and oil pump capacity increase for VVT.

    The new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine is manufactured at the Saltillo Engine Plant in Saltillo, Mexico.

  • Jeep Grand Cherokee

    Jeep Grand CherokeeThe Jeep® brand unveiled today the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee that features an all-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine that delivers a 24 percent increase in horsepower, a 6 percent increase in torque and improved fuel economy compared with the engine it replaces. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers a refreshed interior and exterior design and a host of innovative premium amenities, including one not found on other full-size sport-utility vehicles (SUV) on the road today — SIRIUS Backseat TV™. The vehicle will arrive at Jeep dealerships starting this fall.

    “With a choice of five engines, three four-wheel-drive systems and more premium amenities than ever before, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee sets the benchmark for full-size SUVs just as it did when it debuted in 1992,” said John Plecha, Director — Jeep Brand Marketing and Global Communications. “Now available with SIRIUS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee just made road trips or short trips with kids even more enjoyable.”

    Only Full-Size SUV with Five Engine Offerings
    The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the only vehicle with a choice of five engine offerings:
    • Award-winning 3.0-liter common rail diesel V-6 engine – Now available on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited and Overland
    • 3.7-liter V-6 engine – Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
    • All-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine – Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
    • 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI® engine – Available on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, standard on Overland
    • 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine – Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

    All-new for 2008 is the 4.7-liter V-8 engine that offers better fuel economy, power and torque than the previous 4.7-liter engine, while at the same time delivering improvements in refinement.

    The new 4.7-liter V-8 incorporates two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 291 horsepower (217kW), a 24 percent increase, and 322 lb.-ft. of torque (437 N•m), a 6 percent increase over the previous 4.7-liter V-8 engine. And, like the engine it replaces, the new 4.7-liter V-8 engine is flex-fuel capable, which gives customers the ability to use up to an 85 percent concentration of ethanol (E85) to fuel their vehicles.

    Improvements in the new 4.7-liter V-8 result from significant revisions to the induction system, a lightweight piston/rod assembly and reduced accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. Engine smoothness at idle is enhanced with a new cam design, two spark plugs per cylinder and a valve-lash adjuster system. The new 4.7-liter V-8 also is equipped with electronic throttle control.

    First to Offer All-new SIRIUS Backseat TV
    The Chrysler Group will be the first and only auto manufacturer to offer SIRIUS Backseat TV in its 2008 model year vehicle lineup, including the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

    SIRIUS Backseat TV features three channels of respected children’s TV featuring many of the most well-known kids’ programming, including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. Rear-seat passengers will be able to watch shows such as Nickelodeon’s “SpongeBob SquarePants,” Disney Channel’s “Hannah Montana” and Cartoon Network’s “Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends.”

    SIRIUS Backseat TV operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle’s second-row (except minivan: second- and/or third-row) video screen, and channel name, program title and rating will be broadcast and displayed on the screen. For added flexibility, rear-seat passengers can enjoy SIRIUS Backseat TV while front-seat occupants listen to SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit. In addition, when the vehicle is in park, programming can be displayed on the MyGIG screen for front-seat viewing.

    Innovative Premium Amenities
    Along with SIRIUS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes a variety of premium amenities that are new for 2008, including the new MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System that has a built-in navigation, audio, entertainment and communication system. MyGIG enables customers to use touch-screen or voice commands to control all of the features, and includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive where music and photos can be stored. There’s space reserved on the hard drive for approximately 1,600 songs; that’s over 100 hours of music. There also is a voice-memo recorder feature. MyGIG supports real-time traffic information, available through SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and can provide an alternate drive route based on current traffic.

    Also new on the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee are high-intensity discharge (HID) auto-leveling headlamps. HID auto-leveling headlamps provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination. The auto-leveling feature automatically adjusts the headlamps to the vehicle pitch depending on the load and number of passengers in the vehicle. This feature also benefits oncoming traffic as the system prevents drivers from being distracted by glare from the headlamps. The auto-leveling feature is only available with HID headlamps.

    ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera (with or without navigation), ParkSense® Rear Back-up System, SmartBeam® headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, iPod connectivity and 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels also are part of the vehicle’s available features and options.

    The Jeep Grand Cherokee also features three new safety and security technologies for 2008: Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control.

    Hill Descent Control (HDC) is standard on Grand Cherokee 4×4 models. Operational in the “4WD Low” position, HDC provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed. By means of electronic brake control, HDC supplements the gear reduction and engine braking that a traditional mechanical low-range transfer case provides. For ease of operation, Grand Cherokee’s HDC is activated and deactivated automatically, after the HDC button is engaged, as the system senses changes in topography. The system works whether the vehicle is in forward or reverse.

    The available Hill Start Assist (HSA) allows the driver time to transition from brake to throttle to achieve a smooth launch on a grade. The system will hold brake pressure for two seconds upon the driver’s release of the brake pedal. The ABS system decreases wheel pressure in response to increasing throttle to provide a smooth launch.

    Trailer Sway Control is optional on all Grand Cherokee models. This system reduces trailer sway and provides improved trailer stability and increased towing safety.

    Refreshed Exterior and Interior

    With its upright and substantial posture, the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance. The grille has been lengthened, and the headlamps are more circular for a more dominant and expressive front view. A new HID headlamp, optional on Limited and standard on Overland, includes an internal optic lens for the park/turn function. Fog lamps also have also been lowered for enhanced performance. Off-road enthusiasts will be pleased with the new two-piece front fascia, allowing for the entire lower piece to be removed before hitting the off-road trails.

    On the inside, the vehicle’s two-tone instrument panel features a new level of refinement with bright accents, a soft-touch surface and updated styling. A new tilt and telescoping steering column is standard, with a new steering wheel that includes bright accent bezels, which house the electronic vehicle information center’s switches. The Limited model’s steering wheel adds two-tone leather and bright chrome accent rings, and the Overland features a real wood rim for added luxury.

    Also new is the updated line of instrument clusters that feature new brighter LED illumination, with the Limited and Overland models receiving a modern and elegant treatment where, when the vehicle is started, the dark-tinted lens fades to reveal chrome-ringed black gauges that are surrounded by a bright silver accent field. The new floor console has improved cup holders and a new leather-wrapped and chrome-accented parking brake handle. The door panels have new armrests for improved ergonomics and comfort. New for the Overland model are the new saddle perforated leather seats that feature accent piping for an even more upscale look.