Bigger with 'softer', more-crossover-like looks and based on the same underpinnings as the Mercedes-Benz ML; this is the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee that was unveiled early in the morning ahead of its programmed world debut at the New York Auto Show. From all the above we're pretty sure that the only thing most of you will hold is that, despite the fact the Daimler and Chrysler have parted ways a long time now, the new Grand Cherokee is built on a rear-wheel-drive unibody platform sharing the same underpinnings as the Mercedes-Benz ML.
The new Grand Cherokee rides on a 114.8-inch wheelbase which is 5.3 inches longer than the model it replaces and contributes to an overall vehicle length that is 1.8 inches longer than the prior model. Furthermore, the SUV is also 3 inches wider which should it make it more spacious for passengers and their belongings.
In terms of design, Jeep refined the Grand Cherokee which now looks more like a modern crossover and less like a traditional SUV. Same goes for the interior that has been redesigned from the ground up with Jeep promising soft-touch materials all around.
Underneath the metal, Jeep claims that the new (M-Class) body structure's torsional stiffness is 146 percent stiffer than the outgoing Grand Cherokee and stiffer than the BMW X5 and Toyota Highlander.
Furthermore, the new model is equipped with an all-new independent front and rear suspension that replaces the current Grand Cherokee's live axle setup at the rear. Apart from the apparent benefits in handling, the new rear suspension allows the spare tire to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath.
The Grand Cherokee will also be available with the new Quadra-Lift air suspension system that features five height settings, one of which provides an additional 3 inches of height for 11.1 inches of ground clearance.
In addition to the Quadra-Lift air suspension, the Grand Cherokee also gets an all-new Selec-Terrain traction control system that electronically coordinates up to 12 different powertrain, braking and suspension systems, including throttle control, transmission shift, transfer case, Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Jeep offers three different 4x4 systems for the new Grand Cherokee. The basic Quadra-Trac I delivers full-time four-wheel drive without any switches or levers to pull, while the Quadra-Trac II offers a two-speed transfer case and the ability to route as much as 100 percent of available torque to the axle with the most traction. Finally, the Quadra-Drive II adds a rear Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (ELSD) that instantly detects tire slip and distributes engine torque to tires with traction. The Selec-Terrain that we mentioned before is standard with Quadra Trac II and Quadra Drive II.
In North America, the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be available with two engines, a new flexible fuel 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 producing 280 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 Nm) at 4,800 rpm and a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 360 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (520 Nm) at 4,250 rpm. The V6 unit is coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission while the V8 HEMI to a multi-speed automatic transmission.
In Europe and other international markets, the new Grand Cherokee will also be offered with diesel engine(s).
