What'd we learn even before the New York auto show opened? That the Grand Cherokee has been given a thorough redesign for the '05 model year. It promises improved dynamics, increased interior room, and an optional 325-hp version of the corporate 5.7-liter Hemi.
Refinement seems to have been a top priority for Jeep engineers as they finally exorcized the anachronistic solid front axle and replaced it with an independent control-arm front suspension. But the solid rear axle is still with us. Further aiding ride and handling are optional active anti-roll bars that actuate according to cornering loads. The antediluvian, AMC-derived 4.0-liter pushrod inline six at the bottom end of the order form is also gone, in favor of the quiet and modern 210-hp, 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 from the Liberty. The 4.7-liter SOHC V-8 carries over as the mid-level engine.
Increases in wheelbase, width, and overall length lead to more room for five passengers, but surprisingly, Jeep will not offer a third row. Instead, Jeep has concentrated on making the interior a pleasant place for five. Interior design and materials are a cut above the previous generation's and give the cabin a luxurious aura.
Although Jeep has not disclosed the mass, considering the new Grand Cherokee's larger scale, a performance-robbing weight gain seems inevitable. Helping to offset the larger size is a new five-speed automatic, which should help acceleration and fuel economy. Hemi versions will feature displacement on demand, known as Multi-Displacement System (MDS) in Jeep-speak, which should result in a slight boost in fuel economy. Expect a price increase when the Grand Cherokee goes on sale this fall (the current starting price is $28,055).
Tony Quiroga is a 20-year-veteran Car and Driver editor, writer, and car reviewer and the 19th editor-in-chief for the magazine since its founding in 1955. He has subscribed to Car and Driver since age six. "Growing up, I read every issue of Car and Driver cover to cover, sometimes three or more times. It's the place I wanted to work since I could read," Quiroga says. He moved from Automobile Magazine to an associate editor position at Car and Driver in 2004. Over the years, he has held nearly every editorial position in print and digital, edited several special issues, and also helped produce C/D's early YouTube efforts. He is also the longest-tenured test driver for Lightning Lap, having lapped Virginia International Raceway's Grand Course more than 2000 times over 12 years.
