The 2005 Grand Cherokee gets the full treatment of a redesign,
resulting in a package that is better than ever-and bigger
too. The all-new version is longer than the 1999-2004 version
by 3.5 inches in wheelbase and 5 inches overall.
One major area the upgrade focuses on is performance. All-new
features include: three new full-time four-wheel drive systems,
two new engines, two new transfer cases, an all-new suspension,
rack and pinion steering for the first time and an all-new
five-speed automatic transmission.
Available Models
The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited is a sole model. The
Laredo is covered in a separate review.
Interior Features
The Limited's seats are two-tone leather with perforated
leather seat inserts. It has an exclusive new four-gauge
instrument cluster with LED illumination, black gauges surrounded
by chrome accent rings and red pointers for easy-to-read
legibility in all lighting conditions.
The new interior also includes a rich two-tone instrument
panel, new door trims and upscale interior finishes. The
cargo area features a new reversible load floor panel that
is carpeted on one side and offers easy-to-clean plastic
on the other.
The Limited is the top-line trim for a reason. It has such
standard features as dual-zone automatic climate controls,
a memory system (driver seat, mirrors and pedals), power-adjustable
pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls,
a Boston Acoustics AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3
changer, rain-sensing wipers and more.
Exterior Features
The heavy cladding used on the previous model is replaced
this year with a more efficient bodyside shape and moldings
that are incorporated into the design. Also new are high-performance
halogen headlamps and improved taillamps.
Performance
For 2005, the Limited gets a 4.7-liter V6 engine that pumps
out 230 horsepower at 4700 rpm and 290 lb-ft of torque at
3700 rpm. It is coupled to a new 5-speed automatic transmission
with a manual-shift gate and a tow/haul mode.
Optional is a monster 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine. It will
produce 325 horsepower at 5100 rpm and 370 lb-ft of torque
at 3500 rpm. The 5.7 has Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System,
which deactivates four cylinders under idle and cruise conditions
to save fuel.
2005 Grand Cherokees can be purchased with rear-wheel drive
or with one of two all-wheel drive systems: Quadra-Trac
or Quadra-Drive.
In yet another upgrade, the 2005 Grand Cherokee has a new
suspension configuration. Front suspension travel is increased
by almost 10 percent (more than one inch) compared to the
2004 Grand Cherokee.
Safety and Security
Traction control and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard.
Curtain side airbags, a tire-pressure monitor and rear-obstacle
detection are optional.
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