2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review

Specifications

Interior and Suspension Refinement Plus HEMI Power

I first caught sight of Jeeps new 2005 Grand Cherokee at a Chrysler Group new model preview in Detroit last November. While it was only a styling buck on a pedestal, I was told it was an exact copy of what the new sport utility would look like.

The same SUV in a different color showed up on stage in New York for its official launch in early April, and in Jeep style it was a spectacular event. The rough and rugged brand had sectioned off and covered a strip a parking lot that lies next to the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan with a monstrous tent, and built an obstacle course of dirt hills and makeshift bridges for New Yorkers to test out the Grand Cherokees legendary mettle. During its introduction the new model shot up the tallest hill and down the other side, over a bridge and onto the stage, itself mimicking Manhattans Bryant Park, for a memorable entrance.

No one had trouble recognizing the 2005 model for what it is, exactly why the Jeep division made sure not to stray too far from the formula that has made its flagship model such a major success over the years. It sports a more Jeep-like corporate face, meaning the Euro-style flush headlight clusters have been rounded to mimic the classically styled TJ/Liberty design language, while a much stronger looking roofline is held up by robust A-, B-, C- and D-pillars, giving it more of the Dodge Magnums beefiness than its previous lithe, athletic stance. Its angular rear lighting treatment is attractive, and quite unique in the segment.

But despite the Grand Cherokees continued popularity, the new model will arrive in showrooms this fall not a moment too soon. With buyers moving into bigger SUVs and the Grand Cherokees mild 1998 makeover beginning to show wrinkles, the brands been in need of a refreshed core product.

For the 2005 model year the new Grand Cherokee delivers on most of the goods that have become standard issue in the hotly competitive midsize SUV niche, save for a seven-passenger version (due in about a year and possibly dubbed the Wagoneer if DCX insiders are to be believed). Revamped styling that draws on Jeeps heritage plays a major role in the redo, but Jeep also promises that the new Grand Cherokee will deliver a better ride and best-in-class traction.

But the big addition to the Grand Cherokee lineup that will appeal most to enthusiasts is undoubtedly the appearance of the HEMI engine in the Jeep lineup. The engine displaces 5.7-liters just like the Ram pickup and new Durango SUV, but unlike these Dodge products the Cherokees top engine will make use of Chrysler Groups new cylinder deactivation technology dubbed MDS, for Multi-Displacement System. MDS is said to increase fuel economy by up to 20 percent while still delivering 325 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque, not quite as much power or torque as in the 300C, but still the highest output in its class.

New developments such as high-speed electronic controls, sophisticated algorithms controlling the systems and the integration of electronic throttle control have made the technology possible. As a result Chrysler Group reports a seamless deactivation and activation process, needing only 40 milliseconds (0.040 seconds) to transition from eight-cylinders to four or vice versa. Id have to agree. I drove the system in Chryslers HEMI-equipped 300C and couldnt tell when it transitioned from four to eight cylinders or vice-versa.

So how does it work? Essentially MDS deactivates the valve lifters in four of theV8s cylinders (1, 7, 4 and 6), resulting in four closed valves and zero combustion in half the cylinders. Fortunately the “dead” cylinders dont drag energy from the working four, due to air being pumped through those cylinders temporarily out of action.

Those who prefer fuel efficiency over absolute power can opt for an all-new base engine, the same 210 horsepower 3.7-liter SOHC V6 with 235 lb-ft of torque that is currently featured in the top-line Liberty. While the new engine provides smoother, quieter operation, greater power, better space optimization and improved fuel economy, it will be hard to say goodbye to the venerable 4.0-liter I-6, an engine thats been in the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup for almost as long as I can remember. Bridging the gap, the efficient 4.7-liter SOHC V8 will soldier on with 230 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque.

No matter the engine chosen, all Grand Cherokees will feature a 5-speed automatic transmission, reportedly delivering smoother shifts and improved fuel economy in V6 and V8 applications. The unit mated to the 3.7-liter V6 will be all-new, while the current 545RFE 5-speed automatic will be joined up with the 4.7-liter V8 once again, and become the standard gearbox for the top-line 5.7-liter V8 as well. While it increases the SUVs maximum towing capacity Jeep also says its been “refined for higher-quality shifts.”

Part of that refinement is the addition of Electronic Range Select (ERS) driver interactive shift control in both transmissions, a first for the Grand Cherokee. In a nutshell ERS is another name for sequential manual mode, what Chrysler Group calls AutoStick in its other brands. This system is ideal for the Grand Cherokee, allowing easier manipulation of the gears during off-road use.

The new Grand Cherokee will also feature improved ride and handling, both on pavement and in the rough stuff. The current model is one of few off-road capable SUVs, but the 2005 model is said to be even better. Three new full-time four-wheel drive systems will be available, including Quadra-Trac I: a fully automated full-time 4WD system with no need for a transfer case lever; Quadra-Trac II: incorporating Jeeps new NV245 transfer case that doles out full-time active 4WD. What does active mean? Basically the system anticipates and then prevents tire slippage - its tough to get better than that. The NV245 transfer case also incorporates an electronic shifter featuring a “true low-range gear,” plus a neutral position that allows it to be towed behind an RV.

The final 4×4 system offered is Quadra-Drive II: a sophisticated setup of Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (ELSD) that replace the Vari-Lock progressive axles from the previous-generation Quadra-Drive system allowing for more immediate reaction to varying road conditions and greater torque capacity.

“The Jeep Brand continues to be the only American brand dedicated solely to the sport-utility market,” stated Jeff Bell, Chrysler Group Vice President - Jeep. “Customers expect every Jeep to set the standard for off-road capability, and the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee will not disappoint. What is unexpected is that the Jeep Grand Cherokee will also be the leader in on-road performance excitement.”

That excitement Norman is eluding to will come via an all-new independent front suspension setup said to deliver enhanced at-the-limit control, better steering feel, and better lateral transitional response. The increase of front suspension wheel travel by 13 percent over the 2004 model will help both on and off the road, as will a tighter turning circle of just 36.8 feet. The new Grand Cherokee makes use of a high-end five-link rear suspension geometry, which includes a track bar for lateral rigidity.

Of course, in the case of suspension systems what improves enjoyment also makes a vehicle safer, from an “active safety” point of view. Enhancing the suspension improvements is Jeeps Dynamic Handling System (DHS), standard equipment with 5.7-liter HEMI equipped Grand Cherokees. This is the first time DaimlerChrysler has used a hydraulic-controlled active stabilizer system, and a 4×4 capable SUV is the ideal application due to its higher than average center of gravity and resultant tendency to roll. DHS is said to reduce body roll significantly, making the Grand Cherokee feel sportier through the corners while enhancing ride quality. The new SUV will also include Electronic Stability Program (ESP), further benefiting stability.

While some will be disappointed the 2005 Grand Cherokee doesnt feature 7-occupant accommodation, it is larger inside than the outgoing model. Headroom is up, while Jeep has increased front seat travel - especially important to those at either end of the height spectrum. The cargo area has been given the reversible carpet/vinyl floor treatment with storage underneath, an innovative idea which is similar in execution to that in the upcoming Dodge Magnum sport tourer.

I jumped into the drivers seat just after it was launched, and noticed a substantive improvement in interior tactile quality. The current Grand Cherokee is pretty good, considering its age and in comparison to its domestic peers, but those loyal to the model will appreciate the care and attention Jeep paid to the details. I especially liked the two-tone instrument panel and door trim. I found the seats to be pretty comfortable too, although the few minutes spent in them could hardly be considered a real life test.

Jeep adds a GPS navigation radio as optional equipment, plus a rear seat DVD entertainment system with Boston Acoustics audio - the kids get all the good stuff. Mom and Dad can enjoy the available UConnect hands-free communication system, Smart Beam and Rear-Park Assist - an investment that will pay itself off in a split second if it saves you from backing into anything rigid - or worse, a pedestrian.

The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be produced at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, starting in the third quarter of 2004. Assembly for markets outside North America will begin in the first quarter of 2005 in Austria.