2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Gets 291-HP V8

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — The bread-and-butter Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a mild makeover for the 2008 model year, as well as a new 4.7-liter V8 that delivers 291 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque. The new Grand Cherokee hits showrooms in the fall.

Jeep released details about the new Grand Cherokee on Sunday in advance of the car's debut on Wednesday at the 2007 New York Auto Show.

The previous 4.7-liter V8 in the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee delivered 235 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque. Like its predecessor, the new 4.7-liter V8 is flex-fuel capable and can run on E85 or gasoline. The 2008 Grand Cherokee will come with five engine choices. They are a 3.7-liter V6 that is standard on Grand Cherokee Laredo; a 3.0-liter common-rail diesel V6 that is optional on Grand Cherokee Limited and Overland; the 4.7-liter V8 that is standard on Grand Cherokee Limited; a 5.7-liter V8 that is optional on Grand Cherokee Limited and standard on Overland; and a 6.1-liter Hemi V8 that is standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.

Design tweaks include a grille that has been lengthened and more circular headlights. The foglamps have been lowered, and there is a new two-piece front fascia. The lower piece of the front fascia can be removed for off-roading. In the cabin, Grand Cherokee gets a two-tone instrument panel, updated instrument clusters and a new standard tilt/telescoping steering column.

Jeep also announced three new safety and security technologies, including Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control — items that are typically offered on more upscale SUVs.

Hill Descent Control is standard on Grand Cherokee 4x4 models. It provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed. Hill Start Assist helps the driver make the transition from brake to throttle on uphill grades. Trailer Sway Control is an option that reduces trailer sway.

The new Jeep Grand Cherokee also gets optional Sirius Backseat TV and the MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System.

© Source: article on insideline
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