Jeep Grand Cherokee 2005 $11,995

Vehicle Overview Once DaimlerChrysler's Hemi V-8 began appearing in more Chrysler Group vehicles, it seemed like only a matter of time before it might turn up in a Jeep product. That time has arrived, as the redesigned Grand Cherokee sport utility vehicle can be equipped with Hemi power. The 2005 Grand Cherokee promises best-in-class tractive capability and best-in-class power, according to Jeep. A new, more powerful 3.7-liter V-6 replaces the previous inline-six-cylinder engine. A 4.7-liter V-8 remains available. The 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 incorporates a Multi-Displacement System that deactivates half of the cylinders during cruising and light acceleration. Depending on driving conditions, Jeep claims the MDS can increase fuel economy up to 20 percent. Three new four-wheel-drive systems are available. Quadra-Trac I provides full-time all-wheel-drive operation, requiring no attention from the driver. Its transfer case splits torque 48/52 percent, front to rear. Quadra-Trac II is a full-time active four-wheel-drive system that has low-range gearing. Quadra-Drive II includes electronic limited-slip differentials for heightened offroad capability. This is the first Jeep model to be equipped with electronic transfer case engagement, and the electronic limited-slip differentials are an industry first. Grand Cherokees received new suspension and steering components. The new Jeep-designed independent front suspension promises a 10 percent increase in suspension travel. The turning circle has been reduced to just over 37 feet. A new five-link rear suspension is installed. Available with the Hemi motor is a Dynamic Handling System featuring a hydraulically controlled stabilizer bar that's intended to reduce body roll in turns or tight maneuvers. Jeep says it also yields a smoother ride on straightaways. An Electronic Stability Program is installed to improve directional stability in severe conditions it's available in the Grand Cherokee for the first time this year. Sensors determine the appropriate brake and throttle adjustments to maintain vehicle stability. SmartBeam headlamps, an industry first, use a camera ahead of the inside mirror to keep high beams on as much as possible and vary their intensity. Exterior The 2005 model's appearance is similar to the 1999 - 2004 Grand Cherokee, led by Jeep's signature seven-slot grille, which is flanked by round headlamps. The grille is body-colored on the Laredo model and chrome-plated on the Limited. The redesigned SUV's windshield is flatter and the hood is proportionally longer than before, with nacelles over the headlamps. A front air dam is installed for the first time. Cladding is no longer used on the bodysides, which incorporate moldings embossed with the Grand Cherokee name. The SUV has what Jeep calls powerful wheel flares. Enlarged taillamps feature red and clear lenses. New rack-and-pinion steering is installed, and the track width has grown by 2.5 inches to 62 inches. Built on a 109.5-inch wheelbase, the Grand Cherokee is 186.6 inches long overall and 67.7 inches tall. Interior Headroom in the Grand Cherokee has increased. Five occupants fit inside, and the seats have increased travel. The driver faces a symmetrical two-tone instrument panel. The four-gauge instrument cluster has LED illumination with red pointers. The Laredo gets standard cloth upholstery, and the seats in the Limited are two-toned leather with perforated inserts. A new, gated gearshift lever is used. A reversible load floor panel in the cargo area improves versatility. This space features carpeting on one side and easy-clean plastic on the other. New premium options include a navigation radio with a 5.8-inch screen, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a Boston Acoustics audio system, UConnect hands-free communication system, SmartBeam headlamps and rear-park assist. Cargo volume behind the rear seat is 34.5 cubic feet. Under the Hood Three engines are available: the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, ra

• Roof side rails
• Adjustable roof rail crossbars
• Liftgate integrated rear spoiler
• Bright grille
• Molding
• Body color fascias w/bright insert
• Automatic halogen headlamps
• Fog lamps
• Fold away pwr heated mirrors w/memory
• Deep tinted sunscreen glass
• Flip-up liftgate glass
• Rain sensing intermittent windshield wipers
• Rear window wiper/washer
• Front license plate bracket
• Body color license plate brow
• Hood insulation
• Leather trimmed front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment
• Pwr 8-way driver seat w/memory
• Pwr 4-way passenger seat
• 60/40 folding rear seat
• Full-length floor console
• Full floor carpeting
• Front/rear floor mats
• Tilt steering column
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/audio controls
• Instrument cluster w/tachometer
• Vehicle information center
• Traveler/mini trip computer
• Pwr windows w/driver 1-touch feature
• Pwr door locks
• Pwr accessory delay
• Enhanced accident response system
• Speed control
• Remote keyless entry
• Sentry Key theft deterrent system
• Security alarm
• Pwr adjustable pedals w/memory
• Dual zone automatic temp control
• Rear window defroster
• AM/FM stereo w/6-disc CD changer
• Fixed long mast antenna
• Auxiliary front/rear 12-volt pwr outlet
• Locking glove box
• Premium door trim panel
• Auto dimming rearview mirror
• Cloth covered headliner
• Overhead console
• Illuminated visor vanity mirrors
• Universal garage door opener
• Passenger assist handles
• Lamps
• Illuminated entry
• Cargo area
• Covered cargo compartment storage
• 4.7L V8 MPI engine w/HD cooling system
• 5-speed automatic transmission
• 3.73 axle ratio
• Quadra-Trac II active full-time 4WD system
• 4-wheel traction control
• Pwr steering cooler
• Normal duty suspension
• 730-amp maintenance-free battery
• 160-amp alternator
• 6100# GVWR
• P235/65R17 all-season BSW tires
• 17 x 7.5 aluminum wheels
• Full size spare tire w/matching wheel
• Pwr rack & pinion steering
• Pwr anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes
• 20.5 gallon fuel tank
• Driver & front passenger advanced multistage airbags
• Occupant classification system
• 3-point rear center seat belts
• Child seat upper tether anchorages
• LATCH-ready child seat anchor system
• Dual note horn
• Pwr anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes