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2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
First look at Jeep's redesigned SUV

By , About.com Guide

2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

DaimlerChrysler Media
Jeep's 2005 Grand Cherokee has a new look and quite a few new features. Jeep fans will no doubt appreciate the choices they have for 2005.

3 New Full Time 4WD Systems

Quadra-Trac: Utilizes a single-speed transfer case to provide full-time 4WD--no driver interaction is required.

Quadra-Trac II: incorporates the new NV245 transfer case to deliver full-time active 4WD, which anticipates and prevents wheel slip for best traction in many conditions. The transfer case includes electronic shift with a true low-range gear and neutral for towing behind another vehicle.

Quadra-Drive II: uses Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (ELSD) for maximum off-road capabilities. ELSD replace the Vari-Lock progressive axles used on the Quadra-Drive system from previous generation Jeep vehicles and provides greater torque capacity and quicker response to changing conditions.

Engine Availability

  • 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine
  • 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 replaces the 4.0-liter I-6 engine
  • 4.7-liter SOHC V-8 engine

Jeep says that its Multi-Displacement System (MDS) deactivates half the cylinders of the 5.7-liter HEMI during cruising and light acceleration to increase fuel economy by up to 20 percent, depending on driving conditions.

With approximately seven percent less displacement, the 3.7-liter V-6 produces more peak power than the 4.0-liter I-6 engine it replaces, while producing comparable torque. The engine was �rst introduced on Jeep Liberty and Dodge Ram models, and shares many design features with the 4.7-liter Power Tech V-8 engine.

New Suspension and Steering System

  • Front suspension wheel travel is increased 13 percent over the previous generation vehicle, with a turning diameter of 37.1 ft.

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

  • Electronic Stability Program (ESP) uses signals from sensors throughout the vehicle to make brake and throttle adjustments for directional stability of the vehicle.

Transmissions

  • An all-new five-speed automatic transmission is paired with the 3.7-liter V-6.
  • The 545RFE five-speed automatic transmission used with the 4.7-liter V-8 and 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI has been refined for higher-quality shifts and to increase maximum towing capacity.

Both transmissions feature Electronic Range Select (ERS) driver interactive shift control. The shifter provides fully-automated shifting when in the "drive" position, but allows the driver to manually select the gear that's best for their off-road driving requirement.

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.

Grand Cherokee Styling for 2005

  • Grand Cherokee's signature, seven-slot grille is flanked by round appearance high-performance halogen headlamps.

  • Look for a longer hood and greater distance between the center of the front axle and base of the windshield.

  • A flatter windshield and faster A-pillar.

  • Larger taillamps in the rear feature red and clear lenses.

  • Improved aerodynamics and fuel economy.

Interior

  • A two-tone instrument panel, door trim and new finishes.

  • Ergonomic seat contours and increased seat track travel.

  • Increased headroom.

  • Redesigned instrumentation.

  • GPS Navigation radio, rear seat DVD, Boston Acoustics audio, UConnect hands-free communication system, Smart Beam and Rear-Park Assist will be available.

Page 2: Specifications

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