1999 Jeep(R) Grand Cherokee: New Levels of Technology, Capability and Luxury Keep Jeep the Leader Both On and Off the Road
5 January 1998
1999 Jeep(R) Grand Cherokee: New Levels of Technology, Capability and Luxury Keep Jeep the Leader Both On and Off the Road
DETROIT, Jan. 5 -- For more than five decades, Jeep(R)
vehicles have been instantly recognized the world over as the premier name in
capable sport-utility vehicles. While other brands are busy "topping off"
their lines with sport-utility vehicles, none of them can offer as wide a
range of capability and comfort -- both on or off the road. The completely
redesigned 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee once again keeps Jeep vehicles at the
forefront of the entire segment with new levels of technology and innovation
combined with robust, Rubicon-proven capability -- the very essence of every
Jeep vehicle.
"We are well aware that in this extremely competitive segment, the battle
for the best sport-utility vehicle is being fought on-road as well as off-
road," said Tom Gale, Executive Vice President, Product Strategy, Design and
General Manager -- Jeep Operations. "We are not about to yield to anyone when
it comes to delivering the best combination of capability and comfort. We
plan to keep aggressively building on our strong history."
Major under-the-skin changes to the all-new 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee
include:
-- Two All-New Engines
An all-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine offers more power, less weight,
increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions than the 5.2-liter
engine it replaces. A 3.1-liter, five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine
(for non-U.S. markets) provides more power and torque than the
previous 2.5 liter turbo-diesel. The proven 4.0-liter in-line
six-cylinder engine is substantially refined for more power and a
quieter, smoother operation.
-- All-New Multi-Speed Automatic Transmission
An all-new, electronically controlled transmission has five forward
ratios. An alternate second gear ratio provides improved performance
for passing while maintaining optimum fuel economy under all
conditions.
-- All-New Quadra-Drive(TM) Four-Wheel Drive System
This completely new concept in four-wheel drive systems marks the
first use in any sport-utility vehicle of the new Quadra-Trac II(TM)
transfer case that incorporates a progressive, speed-sensing torque
transfer differential. The system also marks the first industry use of
Vari-Lok(TM) axles that have a progressive, speed-sensing torque
transfer differential in both the front and rear axle. Without any
driver involvement, the Quadra-Drive(TM) system keeps the vehicle
moving even if only one wheel has minimal traction. Unlike other
systems, Quadra-Drive works without straining, wearing or compromising
the anti-lock braking system.
-- All-New Rear Suspension, Refined Front Suspension
A new three-link rear suspension design reduces unsprung weight
while moving the roll center closer to the vehicle's center of gravity.
This change, along with a substantially refined front suspension,
provides a smoother ride and reduced body lean.
-- All-New Steering System
An all-new steering gear, with repositioned linkage for better
steering feel and response throughout all speed-ranges, improves
on-center feel.
-- All-New Braking System
The new, integrated anti-lock braking system with electronic brake
distribution (EBD) is lighter and less complex than previous systems
while providing quieter operation, less pedal pulsation, reduced fade
and improved front/rear balance. It also has the largest brake rotors
in the sport-utility segment. The 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee meets or
exceeds all U.S. FMVSS passenger car requirements, which are
significantly more stringent than those for light trucks.
"Who better to write the next chapter on four-wheel drive than the
original author?" added Gale. "The all-new 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee again
sets the benchmark not only in key areas, but as a complete sport-utility
vehicle that answers every need in this competitive segment."
The 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be produced at the Jefferson North
Assembly Plant in Detroit starting in the third quarter of 1998. Assembly
for non-U.S. markets in Graz, Austria, and in South America will begin in the
first quarter of 1999.
SOURCE Chrysler Corporation
