2005-Current Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK)

The newest variation of Jeep's iconic Grand Cherokee is a true winner.

Introduced in 2004, the newest Grand sports an independent front suspension and 2 new engines for 2005. The 3.7L V6 has been used in the Liberty since it's induction, and DC brought over the 5.7L HEMI V8, most commonly seen in Dodge's Ram pickup.

Three different 4wd systems are available: The no-frills Quadra-Trac I, with a full-time 4wd transfercase and no 4Low option, it is truly an on-road biased system. The NV-147 transfercase is the brains behind the system. It uses a hydraulic gerator pump to transfer torque from the rear axle to front axle. The BTCS is equipped on these as well.

Quadra-Trac II is the next step up, a full-time 4wd system with the 4Low option. It utilizes the NV-247 transfercase, which uses a similar gerator pump as the 147. However, along with the 4Low option, it comes with BTCS or Brake-controlled Traction Control System. This system modulates brake pressure to a slipping wheel to maximize traction. The system can modulate traction to a single side up to about 70%

Quadra-Drive II is the creme de la creme of 4wd systems. It has the same NV-247 transfercase, but to modulate traction from side to side, it uses electronically controlled Limited Slip Differentials. This system can transfer 100% of torque to a single wheel. It is the most advanced 4wd system that Jeep offers.

On-road capabilities on this Jeep are hands-down the best ever for a Jeep. Having driven one, I can attest to this fact. I wouldn't want to take a long trip in any other vehicle. The suspension absorbs bumps and body roll is quaffed by some beefy anti-sway bars. Through the twisties, this is definitely an SUV at heart, and handles as such. On the highway, though, this is one smooth ride.

During the search for my father's new vehicle, I drove the Honda Pilot and Ridgeline, GMC Yukon, and Toyota 4Runner. The Jeep was, by far, the best SUV on the market.

Off-road capabilities are limited now due to lack of aftermarket support and that dang Independent Front Suspension. Here's a pic of a lifted Commander (same platform) flexing on a rock.



The rock is about 15" tall. If you look, you can see that the passenger side tire is off the ground. Any other vehicle with a solid front axle would have that tire planted firmly on the ground. Even though these Jeeps are good off-road, they are not as good as previous Grand Cherokees.

Here's a couple pics of the 2008 upgrades. The front fascia has been modified a little bit, along with the headlights. New options include HID headlights, the new MyGig multimedia system, and updated seats and interior amenities have made this a much cushier ride.




Overall, I give the new Grand Cherokee a B+, mainly because of the plastic-like interior components and some other small amenity issues, as well as the decreased off-road capabilities. This is still truly a Jeep, though.