2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

All-new Engine, Refreshed Interior and Exterior and More Premium Amenities for 2008 Jeep® Grand Cherokee

Since its introduction in 1992, the Jeep® Grand Cherokee has revolutionized the sport-utility (SÚV) market. With best-in-class tractive capability and best-in-class power, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed, engineered and built to master every imaginable day-to-day driving condition, whether on-road or off-road.
For 2008, Jeep Grand Cherokee adds an all-new 4.7L V-8 engine that delivers a 30 percent increase in horsepower, a 10 percent increase in torque, and improved fuel economy of more than 5 percent than the engine it replaces. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee also features a refreshed interior and exterior design and a host of innovative premium amenities; including one not found on other full-size SÚV competitors on the road today – SIRIÚS™ Backseat TV.

SIRIÚS Backseat TV operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle's second-row (except minivan: second- and/or third-row) video screen, and channel name, program title and rating will be broadcast and displayed on the screen. For added flexibility, rear-seat passengers can enjoy SIRIÚS Backseat TV while front-seat occupants listen to SIRIÚS Satellite Radio. The system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit. In addition, when the vehicle is in Park, programming can be displayed on the MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System screen for front-seat viewing.

Along with SIRIÚS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes a variety of premium amenities that are new for 2008, including the new MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System that has a built-in navigation, audio, entertainment and communication system. MyGIG enables customers to use touch-screen or voice commands to control all of the features, and includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive where music and photos can be stored. There's space reserved on the hard drive for approximately 1,600 songs; that's more than 100 hours of music. There also is a voice-memo recorder feature. MyGIG supports real-time traffic information, available through SIRIÚS Satellite Radio, and can provide an alternate drive route based on current traffic.



ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera (with or without navigation), ParkSense® Rear Park Assist System, SmartBeam® headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, iPod connectivity and 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels also are part of the vehicle's available features and options.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee also features three new safety and security technologies for 2008: Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control.

Hill Descent Control (HDC) is standard on Grand Cherokee 4x4 models equipped with Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II. Operational in the '4WD Low' position, HDC provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed. By means of electronic brake control, HDC supplements the gear reduction and engine braking that a traditional mechanical low-range transfer case provides. For ease of operation, Grand Cherokee's HDC is activated and deactivated automatically, after the HDC button is engaged, as the system senses changes in topography. The system works whether the vehicle is in forward or reverse.

The available Hill Start Assist (HSA) allows the driver time to transition from brake to throttle to achieve a smooth launch on a grade. The system will hold brake pressure for two seconds upon the driver's release of the brake pedal. The ABS system decreases wheel pressure in response to increasing throttle to provide a smooth launch.

Trailer Sway Control is optional on all Grand Cherokee models. This system reduces trailer sway and provides improved trailer stability and increased towing safety.

Design

Exterior Ready to Take Action
With its upright and substantial posture, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee's design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance. The grille has been lengthened, and the headlamps are more circular for a more dominant and expressive front view. A new HID headlamp, optional on Limited and standard on Overland, includes an internal optic lens for the park/turn function. Fog lamps also have also been lowered for enhanced performance. Off-road enthusiasts will be pleased with the new two-piece front fascia, allowing for the entire lower piece to be removed before hitting the off-road trails.

The shape of the body is designed to protect the sides of the vehicle from potential road debris. The bodyside molding also has the integrated Grand Cherokee name for a high-quality look and feel. At the side, a proportionately longer hood and greater distance between the center of the front axle and the base of the windshield emphasize the engine compartment and help to achieve a more powerful image.

Interior Design Elegant and Functional
The Jeep Grand Cherokee takes capability and refinement to new levels. On the inside, the vehicle's two tone instrument panel features a new level of refinement with bright accents, a soft-touch surface, and updated styling.

A new tilt and telescoping steering column is standard, with a new steering wheel that includes bright accent bezels, which house the electronic vehicle information center's switches. The Limited model's steering wheel adds two-tone leather and bright chrome accent rings, and the Overland features a real wood rim for added luxury. Also new is the updated line of instrument clusters that feature new brighter LED illumination, with the Limited and Overland models receiving a modern and elegant treatment where, when the vehicle is started, the dark-tinted lens fades to reveal chrome-ringed black gauges that are surrounded by a bright silver accent field.

The new floor console has improved cup holders and the Limited and Overland models receive a new leather-wrapped and chrome-accented parking brake handle. The door panels have new armrests for improved ergonomics and comfort.

Jeep Grand Cherokee's seats are beautifully crafted with contours that are precise, firm and ergonomic, featuring a robust structure. They are purpose-built and designed for long-distance comfort with trim styles different for each model: Laredo features cloth and optional leather, while Limited seats are two-tone leather with perforated inserts. New for the Overland model are the new saddle perforated leather seats that feature accent piping for an even more upscale look. A reversible load-floor panel is carpeted on one side and offers easy-to-clean plastic on the other. The plastic side includes a large shallow tray for additional utility.

Engineering
• Four-Wheel Drive Systems

• Quadra-Trac I®

For Jeep Grand Cherokee customers who want the assurance of full-time four-wheel drive without any switches or levers to pull, Quadra-Trac I® is ideal. The system provides for smooth operation of the vehicle over a variety of road conditions.

The NV140 transfer case splits torque 48/52 percent (front/rear) for nearly even distribution of engine power. The single-speed transfer case has been designed to rigorous Jeep durability standards while offering smooth and quiet operation. The use of the Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) with the NV140 transfer case makes the 4x4 system extremely competent in most situations.

Quadra-Trac II®
The Quadra-Trac II® 4x4 system for Jeep Grand Cherokee gives the customer the benefit of the NV245 two-speed active transfer case and BTCS.

The NV245 transfer case is the same used in the Quadra-Drive II® system. It takes input from a variety of sensors to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system also uses Throttle Anticipate – sensing quick movement in throttle from a stop – and takes steps to maximize traction before tire slippage occurs. When wheel slippage is detected, up to 100 percent of the available 375 lb.-ft. of torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction.

Torque is transferred to the individual wheels as needed by the BTCS to maintain traction in changing road conditions. When the system senses tire slip, it modulates brake pressure to the slipping wheel, which directs torque to the tires with the best traction.

Quadra-Trac II features an electronic shift mechanism for ease of use. The transfer case offers a low range for off-road situations and includes a neutral position for trouble-free towing behind another vehicle.

Quadra-Drive II®
The Quadra-Drive II® Jeep 4x4 system offers customers the ultimate in off-road capability. It combines the NV245 full-time transfer case with Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (ELSD) for best-in-class tractive performance. The system instantly detects tire slip and smoothly distributes engine torque to the tires with traction. In some cases, the vehicle will even anticipate low traction and adjust to proactively limit or eliminate slip.

The heart of the system is the NV245 active transfer case. This transfer case includes a center differential coupled with an electronically controlled clutch pack, varying it from a completely open state to completely locked and infinite possibilities in between. The 4-Low gear ratio is 2.72:1.

A key component in the Quadra-Drive II system is the ELSD – an industry-first application front/rear/center and the benchmark for automatic traction differentials. The ELSD uses electronically controlled clutch packs to automatically and instantly vary from slip to lock at each axle. This maximizes traction when needed without any of the on-road drawbacks normally associated with such a robust 4x4 system.

All components of the system work together, continually monitoring needs, to provide smooth and automatic application of the components for best-in-class tractive performance while improving the day-to-day on-road driving experience. For example, the ELSD releases the clutch packs in the front axle during turns to allow differentiation and prevent crow hop.

Engines
3.0-liter Common Rail Turbo Diesel
The new 3.0-liter common rail turbo diesel (CRD) engine produces 215 hp (160 kW) @ 3,800 rpm and 376 lb.-ft. of torque (510 N•m) @ 1,600 - 2,800 rpm. The engine offers up to 30 percent improvement in fuel economy, class-leading torque, outstanding towing capacity (7,400 lbs.) and class-leading driving range (approximately 450 miles). And, clean diesel technology reduces CO2 emissions by an average of 30 percent.

3.7-liter SOHC V-6
The 3.7-liter V-6 engine provides the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a powerful standard engine that is efficient, durable and smooth. It produces 210 hp (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. A sophisticated Electronic Throttle Control system tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions, and maintains a consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active. An exhaust gas recirculation valve helps increase fuel economy.

4.7-liter SOHC V-8 (FFV)
All-new for 2008 is the 4.7-liter V-8 engine that offers better fuel economy, power and torque than the previous 4.7-liter high output engine, while at the same time delivering improvements in refinement.

The new 4.7-liter V-8 incorporates two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 305 horsepower (217kW) @ 5,650 rpm, a 30 percent increase, and 334 lb-ft (437 N•m) of torque @ 3,950 rpm, a 10 percent increase and more than five percent increase in fuel economy compared with the previous 4.7-liter V-8 engine. And, like the engine it replaces, the new 4.7-liter V-8 engine is flex-fuel capable, which gives customers the ability to use up to an 85 percent concentration of ethanol (E85) to fuel their vehicles.

Improvements in the new 4.7-liter V-8 result from significant revisions to the induction system, a lightweight piston/rod assembly and reduced accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. Engine smoothness at idle is enhanced with a new cam design, two spark plugs per cylinder and a new valve-lash adjuster system. The new 4.7-liter V-8 also is equipped with electronic throttle control.

5.7-liter HEMI® V-8
The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 is a highly refined power plant that delivers outstanding performance and reduced noise, vibration and harshness. The engine produces 330 hp (246 kW) @ 5,000 rpm and 375 lb.-ft. (509 N•m) @ 4,000 rpm. The engine gives the Grand Cherokee best-in-class power, while 90 percent of the engine's peak torque is available from 2,900 rpm through 5,100 rpm for excellent performance. The engine features the Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which deactivates four cylinders when the V-8 is not needed. Chrysler Group was the first manufacturer to offer fuel-conserving MDS in an SÚV.

Some of the significant technologies enabling MDS include the speed of electronic controls, the sophistication of the algorithms controlling the systems and the use of Electronic Throttle Control.

New for the HEMI engine is a 'Fuel Saver Mode' display, included as part of the Electronic Vehicle Information Center, which informs drivers when they are in four-cylinder mode, allowing them to modify their driving habits for improved fuel efficiency.

Suspension Steering Systems and Transmissions
The short- and long-arm independent front suspension on Grand Cherokee provides the driver with a greater sense of precision and control and more precise steering, and reduces vehicle weight and head toss, all without compromising the vehicle's off-road performance. The 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), which is standard, aids the driver in maintaining vehicle directional stability in severe maneuvers on any type of surface. It works by using signals from sensors throughout the vehicle that then determine the appropriate brake and throttle adjustments for directional stability.

Grand Cherokee's rack-and-pinion steering imparts more precise steering to the driver, providing quick response during all types of maneuvers.

Available with the 3.7-liter V-6 engine is the W5A580, a five-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy. The 3.0-liter CRD engine is mated to the W5J400 five-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The 4.7-liter V-8 and the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engines are mated to the 545RFE five-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The W5J400 and the W5A580 have been refined for higher-quality shifts while giving Grand Cherokee class-leading towing capacity of 7,400 lbs. All transmissions feature Electronic Range Select driver interactive shift control. The shifter provides fully automated shifting when in the 'drive' position. Or the driver can manually select each gear by simply moving the shifter left and right from the 'drive' position. This gives the driver control to precisely match any on-road or off-road requirement.

Jeep Trail Rated®
The Jeep Grand Cherokee's four-wheel drive systems are Trail Rated. The Jeep Trail Rated® badge on the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee shows that the vehicle has been designed to perform in a variety of challenging off-road conditions identified by five key consumer-oriented performance categories: Traction, Ground Clearance, Maneuverability, Articulation and Water Fording.

Jeep Trail Rated is a unique methodology used by Jeep Engineering to measure and predict off-road performance for all Jeep vehicles today and into the future. Through a combination of natural and controlled field tests, Jeep Trail Rated provides a consistent measurement of off-road performance for all Jeep vehicles. Only Jeep vehicles are Trail Rated.

Product Highlights
• The 2008 Jeep® Grand Cherokee continues a tradition of Jeep innovation with new technologies, sophisticated Jeep design, on-road refinement, off-road capability, and a diesel engine offering in the full-size SÚV segment – a Chrysler Group first
• Refreshed exterior design stays true to its authentic Jeep character with signature seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel openings, and includes an added level of sophistication for a distinctively Jeep design statement that easily transitions from on-road to off-road
• A refreshed interior with attention to rich details and craftsmanship that gives customers more comfort and more premium features than ever before
• The Jeep Grand Cherokee revolutionized the sport-utility market when it debuted in 1992
• 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is among the first Chrysler Group vehicles to offer SIRIÚS Backseat TV featuring Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network

Class-leading four-wheel drive capabilities
• Choice of three 4x4 systems – Quadra-Trac I®, Quadra-Trac II® and Quadra-Drive II®
• The Quadra-Drive II Jeep 4x4 system gives customers the ultimate in off-road capability by combining the NV245 full-time transfer case with Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (front/rear/center) for best-in-class tractive performance
• Staying true to its legendary 4x4 heritage, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is Trail Rated®

Command and control of the road
• Independent front and five-link rear suspension systems and rack-and-pinion steering offer superior on-road ride, handling and performance
• Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Electronic Roll Mitigation
• New Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control

Four leading engine options deliver performance and improved fuel economy
• Award-winning 3.0-liter CRD is a smooth-running diesel engine that delivers up to 30 percent improved fuel economy without sacrificing performance, best-in-class horsepower, towing (7,400 lbs.) torque and driving range
• Proven 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 standard engine
• All-new 4.7-liter SOHC V-8 engine offers 30 percent increased horsepower and 10 percent improved torque and improved fuel economy (more than five percent)
• Award-winning 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine delivers an exhilarating performance 330-horsepower

Legendary Grand Cherokee size, styling and comfort
• The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee preserves the right-size package that is critical for off-road use and provides nimble handling on-road
• The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers premium amenities such as SIRIÚS Backseat TV, MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with navigation, touch screen, hard drive, and real-time traffic update, heated first- and second-row seats, ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera w/non-navigation radio, ParkSense® Rear Park Assist System, ÚConnect® Hands-free Communication System, tilt and telescoping steering wheel column, SmartBeam® headlamps, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, rear DVD with eight-inch video screen, iPod connectivity, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, and 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
• Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland, the most luxurious Grand Cherokee ever, offers many premium features including heated first- and second-row seats, HID headlamps, ParkSense, navigation system, SIRIÚS Satellite Radio, leather-trimmed seats with accent piping, real wood interior accents, chrome exterior accents and roof rack, 18-inch chrome-clad premium wheels, standard 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with Quadra-Drive II (4x4 vehicles) and available 3.0-liter diesel engine

Model Lineup
2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
Standard Features
• 3.7-liter V-6 SOHC engine
• Five-speed automatic transmission
• Side curtain air bags with roll detection system
• Electronic Stability Program and Electronic Roll Mitigation
• Brake Assist
• Brake Traction Control
• Rack-and-pinion steering
• Four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring system
• One-touch up-down front windows
• Tilt and telescoping steering wheel with integrated electronic vehicle information center controls
• Air conditioning
• P245/65R17 Goodyear Fortera all-terrain tires
• Eight-way power driver seat, and driver adjustable lumbar support
• Electronic vehicle information center
• 60-40 split-folding rear seat with integrated outboard head restraint and retractable cup holders in seat cushions
• Sentry Key® Engine Immobilizer system and remote keyless entry
• Cargo storage with reversible load-floor and water-resistant storage compartment
• AM/FM stereo with CD
• Auxiliary input jack

Optional Features
• 4.7-liter FFV V-8 engine
• Quadra-Trac II
• Quadra-Drive II
• AM/FM six-disc MP3 radio
• ParkSense Rear Park Assist System
• Power sun roof
• Power adjustable pedals
• Heated seats
• Remote start
• SIRIÚS Satellite Radio
• Trailer tow group with Trailer Sway Control system
• Two-tone leather seats
• ÚConnect w/iPod interface
• 115V power outlet

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
Standard Features
In addition to the standard features on the Grand Cherokee Laredo, the Limited model includes:
• 4.7-liter SOHC V-8 FFV engine
• Five-speed automatic transmission
• Quadra-Trac II
• 17-inch machined-face aluminum wheels
• Roof rack rails
• Remote start
• Leather interior trim
• Heated first- and second-row seats
• Power adjustable pedals with memory
• Rain-sensing automatic wipers
• SmartBeam® headlamps
• Hill Start Assist (4x4 models)
• Hill Descent Control System (4x4 models)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring system with display
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• ParkSense Rear Park Assist System
• ParkView Rear Back-up Camera
• SIRIÚS Satellite Radio
• Electrochromic interior rearview mirror
• Eight-way power driver and four-way power front-passenger seats
• AM/FM/CD/DVD/HDD/MP3 stereo with 20G hard drive and touch screen
• Boston Acoustics six-speaker premium sound system with 276-watt digital amplifier
• HomeLink® universal garage door opener

Optional Features
• Quadra-Drive II
• 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine
• 3.0-liter CRD engine with remote start
• 18-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheels
• High-intensity discharge (HID) auto-leveling headlamps
• Rear DVD entertainment system
• SIRIÚS Backseat TV
• MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with navigation
• Trailer tow group

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland
Standard Features
In addition to the standard features on the Grand Cherokee Limited, the Overland model includes:
• 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine
• Únique chrome accents and details
• High-intensity discharge (HID) auto-leveling headlamps
• Quadra-Drive II including tow hooks and skid plates (4x4 models)
• 18-inch chrome-clad wheels
• Trailer tow group
• MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System

Optional Features
• 3.0-liter CRD engine w/remote start
• Rear DVD entertainment system
• SIRIÚS Backseat TV

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety and Security Features
• Active Turn Signals
• Adjustable Pedals
• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
• ABS with Rough Road Detection
• Advanced Multi-stage Air Bags
• BeltAlert
• Brake Assist
• LATCH (Lower Anchor and Tethers for CHildren)
• Digressive Load-limiting Seat Belt Retractors
• Electronic Roll Mitigation
• Electronic Stability Program
• Energy-absorbing Steering Wheel and Column
• Enhanced Accident Response System
• Express Úp-down Front-door Windows
• Four-wheel Brake Traction Control System
• Head Restraints in All Outboard Seating Positions
• Knee Bolsters
• ParkSense Rear Park Assist System
• ParkView Rear Back-up Camera
• Rain-sensing Wipers
• Remote Keyless Entry
• Seat Belt Pretensioners
• Sentry Key® Engine Immobilizer Theft Deterrent System
• Side Curtain Air Bags with Roll Detection System
• SmartBeam Headlamps
• Three-point Belts in All Seating Positions
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System with Warning Indicator
• ÚConnect Hands-free Communication System

Color Availability
• Jeep Green Metallic Clear Coat
• Light Graystone Pearl Coat
• Mineral Gray Metallic Clear Coat
• Red Rock Crystal Pearl Coat
• Steel Blue Metallic Clear Coat
• Stone White Clear Coat
• Black Clear Coat
• Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat

Source - Jeep