DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group division has recently unleashed the all-new 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee to enter the mid size sport utility vehicle (SUV) market segment. For the 2008 model year, Chrysler Group's Jeep brand is offering a wide range of power plant options for the vehicle.
Powertrain options for the all-new 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee include: all-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine; the award-winning 3.0-liter common rail diesel V-6 engine; 3.7-liter V-6 engine; 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI® engine; and the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine. According to Jeep, the all-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine delivers 30 percent increase in horsepower and a 10 percent increase in torque output compared to the previous 4.7-liter engine. In addition, the engine also offers an improved fuel economy.
The all new 4.7-liter V-8 engine delivers 305 horsepower (227 kW) and produces 334 lb.-ft. amount of peak torque (453 Nm), 30 and 10 percent increased output respectively, thanks to the advanced engine systems including two spark plugs per cylinder, valve-lash adjuster, increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow, electronic throttle control, and a new combustion system. For optimum engine performance, customers can get Jeep Power Programmer. Moreover, the new 4.7-liter V-8 engine is capable of running on 85 percent ethanol fuel (E85) combined with the conventional fuel like diesel or petrol gas.
The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with new features like the high-intensity discharge (HID) auto-leveling headlamps. These lighting technology provides optimal the light output for improved night time illumination compared to conventional reflector lamps found on other vehicles. Other exterior features include ParkView Rear Back-up Camera with navigation system, ParkSense Rear Back-up System, SmartBeam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, memory mirrors, 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, and Jeep signature 7-slot radiator grille.
Talking about "new" features of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the vehicle also comes with new active and passive safety and security features. These include standard Hill Descent Control (HDC) that provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed; Hill Start Assist (HSA) that allows the driver to change from brake to throttle; and Trailer Sway Control that reduces trailer sway as well as provides improved towing stability and safety.
Inside, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with a comfortable and functional interior environment. Interior features include two-tone instrument panel, new tilt and telescoping steering column, MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with built-in navigation, audio, entertainment and communication system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, plus other features exclusive for every Grand Cherokee model trim. In addition, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the first Chrysler Group vehicles to offer the all-new SIRIUS Backseat TV that features three family friendly channels including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network.
Available in Laredo, Limited, SRT8, and Overland model trims, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee will roll out in Jeep dealerships beginning in fall 2007.
By: Lisa Ziegler