The 3.6L Pentastar V6 offers flex-fuel capability and variable valve timing, and in the new Grand Cherokee outputs 280hp (209kW) and 260lb-ft (353Nm) of torque. The engine is also claimed to offer 11% better fuel-economy than the current V6 Cherokee, but it won’t be as efficient as an upcoming diesel that’s planned for overseas markets. Joining the V6 is a range-topping 5.7L HEMI V8, which is good for 360hp (268kW) and 390lb-ft (520Nm) of torque.
Also new is Chrysler’s Quadra Lift air-suspension system, which provides height control and lifts the vehicle up to 4.5in from park mode to a maximum ride height of 11.1in when off-roading. Chrysler also offers up to three different AWD modes, including Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II with an electronic limited slip differential. The different modes offer varying levels of slip protection, smoothly distributing engine torque to individual tires depending of the level of traction.
The vehicle also features new independent suspension systems with isolated front and rear suspension cradles and variable-rate rear springs that combine to enhance on-road character and ride comfort. Furthermore, the body structure’s torsional stiffness is 146% stiffer than current model and stiffer than the BMW X5 and Toyota Highlander as well. This was achieved with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone.
Inside, Chrysler has fitted its uconnect connectivity and entertainment system and a 506-watt premium Alpine stereo system.
In preparation for the new SUV, Chrysler will refit its Jefferson assembly plant in North Detroit, which will also be responsible for several yet-to-be revealed models based on the same platform. This platform, incidentally, was developed jointly with Mercedes Benz for its next-generation ML-Class SUV prior to the split of DaimlerChrysler. This means there is a strong chance that the Grand Cherokee may eventually feature a two-mode hybrid powertrain, which was developed together with Daimler, General Motors and BMW.
Reader Comments
Mon Mar 10 2008 9:50 PM
HECTOR says
All I want to know is this: will the new Cherokee have those COMPLETELY OUT OF PLACE round headlights in an otherwise perfectly square car?
Sun Mar 16 2008 8:52 PM
Steve says
I'm hoping the next gen JGC will look alot like the trailhawk concept, but have better ground clearence, have a great on road ride but still be very capable offroad, and the terrain selector in the trailhawk concept was pretty cool (however landroverish, I still liked the idea). oh and i heard rumors of a choice between 7 or 5 passenger variations of the vehicle.
Tue May 6 2008 12:29 PM
Kinsman says
The new Trail Hawk is far more inovative.
Tue Jul 22 2008 3:23 PM
Marco says
I hope they take out those ugly headlights... It would be nice to see the new model with a 2002 Grand Cherokee influence...
I totally agree with Steve and Kinsman... something like the trailhawk wuld be a good option too...
Thu Aug 7 2008 2:39 AM
Jimmy says
I agree with steve and kinsman too, i also think they should throw in an airbag suspenison like landrover and vw use in their suvs, it would be a great plan to increase ground clearence without sacrificing onroad ride, and give it at least a max setting of 12inches of ground clearence like mercedes benz does with the gl-class off road package!
Thu Aug 7 2008 2:41 AM
john says
I like all those ideas,and if they play their cards right this suv could save chrysler and beat out the competition in all catigories, that would be amazing!
Mon Apr 6 2009 1:48 PM
NoNameDenton says
Bout time we get a good look at the Phoenix engine
Mon Apr 6 2009 2:32 PM
TrelinDTR says
This look great! I'm a little curious about the tail-end...from here it looks quite similar to the GC that's currently out. The interior shots look very appealing with dark brown leather and a reorganized dash. I've had a 2006 GC and it was nice...had it's quirks like the powertrain kept slipping and I wouldn't exactly call it a comfortable car, but it did the job...especially in the snow up here in the Northeast. Chysler really needs this to sell in order to stay viable or even in business.
My suggestion Chrysler...listen to the commentators and listen to the public...we know what we want in a SUV, and you've brought it to us before...now you just need to blow us away!
Wed Apr 8 2009 1:15 AM
NoNameDenton says
Way better then the current one
Wed Apr 8 2009 9:25 AM
Chris says
wow,.. it already comes with hydraulics?
gangstas of the world, rejoice.
Wed Apr 8 2009 1:29 PM
saabfan says
What about the interior? After all you spend most of your time behind the wheel, no?
Wed Apr 8 2009 6:20 PM
NoNameDenton says
Quote:
What about the interior? After all you spend most of your time behind the wheel, no?
Seen the interior on some other sites, it is pretty amazing, lot of soft touch materials. Including leather on the dash.
Sun Apr 19 2009 6:08 AM
chipster3 says
I have a 2005 Grand Cherokee with 5.7 Hemi. The interior is awesome ...when Mercedes left Jeep alot of class went with it. The interiors are so cheap looking now its disappointing. I really like the new Trail Hawk. Just compare a 2005 interior to the 2007 and 08's there really is a difference!
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