First Jeep to Feature 5.7-Liter HEMI Power and First SUV with Electronic Limited Slip Differentials

Jeep is readying an all-new Grand Cherokee to arrive in dealerships across the country this fall. While styling has changed, with a more traditional Jeep-like corporate face that integrates a taller grille and quad circular-style headlamp clusters, angular taillights, and thicker C- and D-pillars that make its stance appear sturdier on the road, no one even slightly tuned into the SUV market will find it difficult to distinguish the 2005 model as anything else but a Grand Cherokee.

Despite the many 6- and 7-passenger competitors that are vying for American consumers attention, Jeep is sticking to the 5-occupant layout and accompanying on- and off-road handling benefits, attributes that have made

One 2005 Grand Cherokee is driving onstage while another is cresting a makeshift dirt hill from behind, as part of Jeeps impressive introduction of its flagship model in New York last April. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

Those that only need five seats will benefit sooner, as the latest Grand Cherokee is better than the outgoing model in every

A new 2005 Grand Cherokee makes its way up and over a rocky crag in a display of its 4x4 prowess during the April introduction. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

The 5-speed automatic will be available in all Grand Cherokee trim levels, with fully-loaded versions getting Jeeps first 5.7-liter HEMI V8, rated

The new Grand Cherokees angular taillights are probably its most dramatic styling departure when compared to previous examples. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

Not only will Grand Cherokee buyers get more power right across the line, but the new model will also offer more content for fewer dollars. In 3.7-liter base Laredo trim the 2005 Grand Cherokee stickers at $26,775, a $995 savings compared to the 2004 GC that currently lists for $27,765. Less money for a better vehicle? Such is the kind of competitive nature that Chrysler

The 2005 Grand Cherokee 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. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

An important part of anything Jeep has always been legendary off-road performance, and the choice of three new full-time 4x4 systems for Grand Cherokee put it in a unique class in its segment. Jeep promises rugged off-road capability, even better than the outgoing Grand Cherokee, along with exemplary on-road characteristics due to its new independent front suspension system.

"The all-new 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers customers a $2,000 better value than its predecessor," said Jeff Bell, Vice President - Jeep.

The new SUVs center console and stack has been much improved, with higher tactile quality surfaces and better controls. The overall design is more attractive too, more upscale and refined. The 5-speed automatic transmissions sequential manual mode will be appreciated both on and off the road. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

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