November 1999 Volume 80 Number 11 "serving the protectors"
A Look of Invincibility
By Jim Barnett

refinement, luxury and power, sporty body, athletic appearance, aggressive stance

he new Jeep Grand Cherokee’s sporty body, athletic appearance and aggressive stance says “I can do anything” - and it can. It looks better than its predecessor and offers greater levels of refinement, luxury and power.

Two 1999 models - Laredo and Limited - were recently released in Australia. These Austrian-built 4x4s are instantly recognizable as Jeep’s, but few other similarities exist.

The Police Journal tested the superbly appointed Grand Cherokee Limited, now fitted with a powerful 4.7-litre SOHC V8 engine and smooth four-speed automatic transmission.

This V8 - which produces 162kW of power and 390Nm of torque - has ample grunt to shift Jeep’s 1837kg smartly off the line. As revs build, that American V8 note becomes unmistakable.

Limited’s stylish dashboard layout has everything at the driver’s fingertips. Cruise control buttons and most audio system functions can be operated from the steering wheel. The centre facia houses a premium sound system which features 180watt amplifier and six Infinity Gold speakers. A 10-stack CD changer is neatly housed in the rear cargo bay.

The Laredo is fitted with an improved 4.0-litre, six-cylinder engine which delivers 140kW of power, 30 per cent fewer emissions and smooth, quiet operation.

With dual thermostats, the automatic climate control system enables precise temperature selection for both sides of the cabin. A “customer programmable” 13-function trip computer shows instant digital readouts of:

• Fuel usage.

• Direction of travel.

• Outside temperature.

• Date of next service.

Limited’s comfortable front seats are 10-way power-adjustable and trimmed in sumptuous leather. The driver’s seat boasts two-stage memory. The cabin is big and airy - it offers good forward visibility, and plenty of head, shoulder and leg room. T

The rear cargo area is also roomy, and accessed through a single lift-up tailgate or separate lift-up window. The spare wheel is housed under the floor, which gives additional space. However, the Grand Cherokee doesn’t enjoy the same cargo depth as some other mid-size 4x4 wagons. A cargo blind is fitted, allowing concealed storage of valuables.

Also featured are:

• Four tie-down hooks.

• A cargo net.

• A 12-volt power socket.

Safety is enhanced with dual front airbags, large ABS equipped four-wheel disc brakes and monocoque construction. Smooth, all-coil suspension and equally smooth power delivery from the superb V8 make this vehicle a dream to drive. The Jeep happily soaks up rough roads, but there’s a tendency for some lateral body movement over bumps at slower speeds. This takes a little getting used to.

Off-road the Grand Cherokee is a capable performer. Generous ground clearance, good approach and departure angles, and some heavy-duty under-body armour further enhance off-road ability.

Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II transfer case provides full-time four-wheel drive with torque-on-demand. Differences in speed between front and rear axles are continuously monitored, with additional torque being instantly delivered as required. No driver inputs are necessary, except when changing between high and low range.

Optional on Limited is Jeep’s new Quadra-Drive system, incorporating Vari-Lok differentials. In much the same way that extra torque is transferred to the front axle, Vari-Lock provides the ability to deliver more torque to the wheel with greater grip on the same axle. Jeep claims this system provides the ability to keep the vehicle going even if only one front wheel has traction.

On the highway the V8 ticks over at a leisurely 2,200rpm to maintain 110km/h. At this speed the trip computer shows a constant fuel usage of around 10litres/100km, with the overall average on test being 16.7litres/100km.

Jeep Grand Cherokee prices include:

• $52,500 for Laredo.

• $66,800 for Limited V8 (plus $1,100 for optional Quadra-Drive).

Test vehicle supplied by Jeep Australia through Adelaide City Chrysler Jeep.

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