When the time came to redesign the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler LLC's design team jumped at an opportunity to reinvent, refine and re-establish the sport-utility vehicle (SUV) design that originally set the course for all other SUVs.

In order to achieve these goals, it was imperative that the exterior not only reflected the vehicle's off-road capability but conveyed an attitude that would be compelling to existing owners and intriguing to potential customers. On the inside, the interior design team focused on ensuring superior quality, delivering exceptional fit and finish, providing focused attention to detail and raising the bar on customer comfort.

"The Jeep design team's mission was to completely re-design the Jeep Grand Cherokee and re-define the meaning of Jeep luxury," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President - Design, Chrysler LLC. "New and existing customers will be delighted by the world-class attention to detail on both the exterior and interior. The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee confidently competes at every level of the full-size SUV segment, and in any market."

Designers took the traditional design cues from the Jeep brand's nearly 70-year heritage - the seven-slot grille, short front and rear overhangs, trapezoidal wheel arches - and moved them forward to create an all-new exterior design that will appeal to new and existing Jeep Grand Cherokee customers. On the inside, they upgraded materials and increased cargo and comfort space.

"Jeep is synonymous with the invention of the SUV,"" said Joseph Dehner, Vice President - Production Vehicle Design. "We wanted to take that significant Jeep design history and move it forward, while listening to our customers' input on what they love about the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The end result is proof that Jeep has retained and solidified its rightful spot as the leader, with a vehicle that does not sacrifice off-road capability for luxury and premium amenities."

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee gains almost two inches in length and almost three inches in width. As a result, customers will benefit with 15 percent more room in the cargo area and more than four inches of increased rear-seat knee and leg room compared with the previous model.

Manufacturing

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be built at the 2.7-million-square-foot Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, which has been the site of Grand Cherokee production since its introduction in 1992.

In preparation for production of the all-new Grand Cherokee, Jefferson North Assembly is undergoing a 285,000-square-foot expansion to replace the existing body shop, which is part of Chrysler's investment of approximately $1.8 billion in new vehicle programs. In addition, changes throughout paint and assembly operations will give the facility an all-new level of manufacturing flexibility for multiple product capability.

JNAP was built in 1991 and was expanded in 1999.

Refined Aerodynamic Exterior Design

In order to achieve an efficient and aerodynamic appearance, designers spent a significant amount of time in the wind tunnel in order to improve Jeep Grand Cherokee's aerodynamic numbers by 8.5 percent, which also reduced wind noise and improved the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee sits higher, and has a wider stance, which gives the vehicle more of a stable and commanding presence on the road. The face of the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been simplified while preserving the traditional "Jeep shield" that contains the grille and headlamps. The chromed seven-slot grille, now sculpted into the front headlamps, is shorter in height and gives the vehicle a solid, aggressive look. The streamlined design of the headlamps is contemporary and features two-burner reflector parabolas. Fog lamps are standard on all models, and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with auto-leveling are standard on the Limited and Overland models.

The lower front fascia features optional tow hooks and a bright insert. The lower air dam, set deep for aerodynamic purposes, may be easily removed in order to increase the vehicle's approach angle, which is important for off-road purposes. Underneath the vehicle are individual aerodynamic belly pans that run the length of the vehicle.

The profile of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is sculptural and athletic. A distinct undercut sits below the A-line, adding character to the side of the vehicle. Side-window graphics are blacked-out giving the vehicle a simplified and integrated look. A three-dimensional stainless steel window trim is standard on all models. The Jeep Grand Cherokee features very short and trim front and rear overhangs. Body-color mirrors and door handles are standard on the Laredo and Limited models. Chromed roof rack side rails are standard on all models.

"The Jeep design team purposely added premium exterior design cues to the Laredo model and it now shares its exterior features with the Limited model," said Mark Allen, Chief Designer, Exterior and Interior Design Studio. "These subtle changes have a huge impact on the showroom floor."

At the rear of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a liftgate with a lift-glass window. The liftgate has a separate handle conveniently located, giving customers easier access when loading and unloading packages. The flipper glass is operated with a release button located below the liftgate handle and on the key fob. The lift-glass window allows easy access to the interior without having to open the liftgate - perfect for quick placement of groceries or off-road gear. A power liftgate, optional on the Limited and standard on the Overland, is a new feature.

New to the Jeep Grand Cherokee is an integrated, body-color rear spoiler that contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency. Taillamps are now larger in size and extend into the liftgate, and feature four back up lights that improve nighttime visibility on the ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera. Chromed dual exhaust tips are paired with the 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI® engine.

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in three models: Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited and the upscale Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland.

Exterior colors

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee features four new exterior colors - Blackberry Pearl Coat, Dark Charcoal Pearl Coat, Rugged Brown Pearl Coat and White Gold Metallic Clear Coat - along with Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Clear Coat, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat and Stone White Clear Coat.

All-new Panoramic Sun Roof

Making its debut on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the all-new CommandView®, a dual-pane sun roof that extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle, allowing for perfect views both on- and off-road. CommandView is comprised of two glass panels - one at the front and one at the rear. The front panel may be opened rearward providing additional light and fresh air to first-row passengers. The rear panel, which is fixed, allows light and open viewing for second-row passengers and comes standard with a sun shade for those who may not want direct sunlight. CommandView is optional on the Laredo, Limited and Overland models. A traditional sun roof is also an option on all models.

Interior Designed for Comfort and Convenience

As the second major interior program to be produced from Chrysler's Advance Interior Design Studio, the Jeep Grand Cherokee interior design team paid close attention to every detail focusing on quality, fit and finish and interior comfort.

"Every interior element was placed under the microscope on the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee," said Klaus Busse, Director - Advance Interior and Component Design, Chrysler LLC. "When customers touch any part of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee interior, they will experience softer materials, smooth edges and texturally pleasing components."

The instrument panel is completely redesigned, and features soft-touch material with contrast stitching that is carried throughout the interior, including seats. Soft-touch material is integrated not only on the instrument panel but on customer touch points including doors, consoles and arm rests. By using softer materials, the Jeep design team was able to achieve fit and finish and lower interior noise levels.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland emphasizes an unparalleled level of the authenticity of the Jeep brand, with attention to detail and hand-craftsmanship throughout. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland features a leather-wrapped instrument panel with real wood applications and a premium leather hand-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Contrast stitching is carried throughout the interior, as well as on seats. Finally, chromed trim subtlety accents the interior.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee features an all-new two-gauge instrument cluster that is surrounded by chrome, and features new back-lighting, which makes it easier to read at night. A new three-spoke steering wheel, with available power tilt-and-telescoping column with memory and heating, is optional on the Limited and Overland models. Cruise control functions are located on the front of the steering wheel while audio controls are ergonomically placed on the back of the spokes.

The center stack neatly houses the HVAC controls, radio and an electronic switch bank. Located on the bottom of the center stack is a covered bin lined with a rubber mat that is perfect for tucking away a cellular phone or any other hand-held devices.

New to the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 is a Selec-Terrain switch located on the center console just behind the gear shifter. This new feature enhances an already capable and fully automatic four-wheel drive system by providing optimized traction settings to tailor the vehicle's traction performance based on road conditions.

Located next to the Selec-Terrain switch is a covered bin featuring illuminated cup holders. The covered bin is standard on Limited and Overland models while the Laredo model features an open bin with illuminated cup holders. The center console storage houses a power outlet and iPod docking station that is capable of storing up to seven CDs or DVDs. Additional storage may be found on doors that are equipped with map pockets which also include a designated space to store a water or soda bottle.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers all-new seats for driver and passenger comfort. First-row seats feature molded shoulder corners giving seats a robust look. Standard on all models is an eight-way power driver seat with a four-way power lumbar, and standard on the Limited and Overland models is an eight-way power passenger seat with a four-way power lumbar. A fold-flat front passenger seat is standard on the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, and 60/40 fold-flat second-row seats with recline are standard on all models. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland features ventilated (cooled) seats. Heated front seats are optional on the Laredo model and first- and second-row heated seats are standard on Limited and Overland models.

Aircraft-inspired LED lighting is placed within the interior cabin, map pockets, window switches and foot wells -- perfect for driving or entering and exiting the vehicle at night.

Several storage and convenience features have been designed into the rear cargo area including a grated, protective floor accented with a durable and bright finish. The spare tire has a dedicated space underneath the cargo floor that also contains two removable bins ideal for storing beverages or muddy gear. Also new to the rear cargo area is a storage unit with a re-chargeable flashlight. New and improved grocery hooks are placed on each side of the rear cargo compartment. Cargo capacity with rear seats up is 36.3 cu. ft. and 68.3 cu. ft. with rear seats folded flat.

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee interior is available in four distinctive new colors, Carbon, Saddle, Driftwood, and Canyon.

Right-sized Packaging

The vehicle's 114.8-inch wheelbase is 5.3 inches longer than the model it replaces and contributes to an overall vehicle length that is 1.8 inches longer than the prior model. The longer wheelbase creates more interior room and gives passengers an additional 4 inches of rear-seat knee and leg room. The vehicle also is 3 inches wider for improved handling and packaging.

Larger front door openings (1.9 inches wider; 2 inches higher) and rear doors open 78 degrees compared to current models (67 degrees) for better access to the interior.

Inside, premium seating includes room for five passengers. An available fold-flat front-passenger seat provides improved cargo storage room (Laredo models).

For added passenger comfort, rear seats recline 12 degrees. There also is a 12-degree forward angle to allow 24 degrees of variation.

Cargo volume behind the second-row provides an additional 6.8 cubic feet of room (36.3 cubic feet total) compared to the previous model. The well-appointed rear cargo area includes a storage unit with a rechargeable flashlight and new and improved grocery hooks on both sides. The spare tire compartment includes removable dual storage bins for secure storage of muddy gear or other items.

An all-new power rear liftgate is available for effortless remote up/down convenience.

Among the numerous features in the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, there are three that hit the sweet spot between real-world capability and on-road refinement.

First is the all-new Quadra-Lift™ air suspension system that lifts the vehicle up to 4.5 inches from park mode to a maximum off-road height of 11.1 inches and delivers legendary Jeep off-road capability and on-road performance.

Second is the new independent front and rear suspension with improved on-road ride and handling. The rear suspension boasts a class-leading 10.25 inches of travel to maintain legendary Jeep attributes.

Third is an all-new V-6 engine that offers improved fuel economy, performance and refinement.

"Our all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee provides everything you expect in an SUV and more - more capability, technology, innovation and amenities," said Phil Jansen, Chief Engineer - Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler LLC. "Jeep Grand Cherokee is about premium on-road performance and legendary Jeep capability. We listened to our customers and took it to the next level, adding significantly improved on-road performance while maintaining the Jeep brand's legendary four-wheel-drive capability."

All-new Air Suspension

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee rises above the road and rocks with the all-new Quadra-Lift air suspension system. The Quadra-Lift system features five height settings for optimum ride performance:

• Normal Ride Height (NRH): 8.1 inches of clearance offers improved fuel economy as well as improved aerodynamics during on-road driving
• Off-road 1: Lifts the vehicle an additional 1.5 inches for added height in clearing obstacles (9.6 inches)
• Off-road 2: Delivers legendary Jeep off-road capability and provides an additional 3 inches of height for 11.1 inches of ground clearance
• Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 1.5 inches from NRH for easy ingress/egress. NRH and Park mode are driver selectable allowing the driver full control over vehicle ride height
• Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle .6 inches from NRH. Aero Mode is controlled by vehicle speed and adjusts for optimal performance and fuel economy Quadra-Lift adds up to 4.5 inches of lift span supported by four-corner air springs that provide a cushioned, premium ride. Quadra-Lift operates automatically, or may be controlled manually with console controls.

In addition to the Quadra-Lift air suspension, the all-new Selec-Terrain™ traction control system allows customers to choose the on- and off-road setting for optimum performance. This all-new feature electronically coordinates up to 12 different powertrain, braking and suspension systems, including throttle control, transmission shift, transfer case, Hill-Start Assist and Hill-Descent Control.

The new Selec-Terrain™ system offers five different driving conditions to achieve the best driving experience on all terrains:

• Sand/Mud: Traction control and Quadra-Lift operate with sensitive response to wheel spin, and torque tuned for optimal performance
• Sport: Provides enhanced on-road "fun-to-drive" capability
• Auto: Automatically adapts to any on- or off-road situation
• Snow: Vehicle traction and Quadra-Lift adjust for ultimate performance over snow-covered roads
• Rock: Quadra-Lift suspension raises to maximum height of 11.1 inches, while the transfer case, differentials, and throttle coordinate to provide low-speed control

Selec-Terrain, coupled with the all-new Quadra-Lift air suspension, offers drivers an adjustable suspension span that delivers Trail Rated® performance.

With the front air dam removed and the available Quadra-Lift air suspension, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee features a 35.9-degree approach angle, a 29.2-degree departure angle and 25.1-degree breakover angle.

The all-new independent front and rear suspension features isolated front and rear suspension cradles along with variable-rate rear springs to deliver improved on-road handling and comfort while complementing the vehicle's legendary off-road capability. The new rear suspension also allows the spare tire to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is also available with load-leveling shocks. Shocks react to payload levels and mechanically increase vehicle height when the vehicle has added rear payload. When payload is added to the vehicle, the shock's gas pressure increases until the vehicle reaches normal ride height.

Advantages to load-leveling shocks include improved load handling and trailer-tow performance. Load-leveling shocks are available with trailer-tow packages that do not already have the Quadra-Lift air suspension.

Transmissions

Available with the all-new 3.6-liter V-6 engine is the proven W5A580, a five-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy. The five-speed W5A580 transmission includes Electronic Range Select (ERS) driver-interactive manual control and an electronically modulated torque converter clutch.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine is mated to the 545RFE multi-speed automatic transmission. The five-speed transmission includes three planetary gear sets, one over-running clutch, with ERS driver interactive control and an electronically controlled torque converter clutch.

Go Anywhere 4x4 Systems

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee features three 4x4 systems (Quadra-Trac I®, Quadra-Trac II® and Quadra-Drive® II).

Quadra Trac I delivers full-time four-wheel drive without any switches or levers to pull. The system provides smooth operation of the vehicle over a variety of road conditions. This light-weight single-speed case is both proven and efficient for enhanced fuel economy.

The Quadra Trac II's two-speed transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and takes corrective action. The system also uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximizes traction before tire slippage occurs. When wheel slippage is detected, as much as 100 percent of available torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction.

Quadra Drive II, with a rear Electronic Limited-slip Differential (ELSD), delivers industry-leading tractive capability. The system instantly detects tire slip and smoothly distributes engine torque to tires with traction. In some cases, the vehicle will anticipate low traction and adjust in order to proactively limit or eliminate slip.

Selec-Terrain is standard with Quadra Trac II and Quadra Drive II.

All 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokees equipped with the off-road or the Quadra-Lift group are Trail Rated®. The Jeep Trail Rated badge on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee indicates that the vehicle is designed to perform in a variety of challenging off-road conditions identified by five key consumer-oriented performance categories: Traction, Ground Clearance, Maneuverability, Articulation and Water Fording.

Jeep Trail Rated is a unique methodology used by Jeep Engineering to measure and predict off-road performance for all Jeep vehicles. Through a combination of natural and controlled field tests, Jeep Trail Rated provides a consistent measurement of off-road performance for all Jeep vehicles. Only Jeep vehicles are Trail Rated.

Premium on-road performance and Jeep ruggedness

Continuing to build on the Jeep brand's legendary off-road capability, the all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee adds premium on-road performance to complete the package.

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee's premium SUV on-road manners and legendary Jeep ruggedness is achieved with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone. The all-new body structure's torsional stiffness is 146 percent more than the current Grand Cherokee and stiffer than the BMW X5 and Toyota Highlander for improved durability and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

With more than 3,700 mm of arc welding and 100 m of structural adhesive to augment welding, this marks a 53-percent increase in spot welds, a 42-percent increase in arc welds and a 38-percent increase in structural adhesive compared to the current Grand Cherokee.

The new state-of-the-art Trenton (Mich.) Engine South Plant will be the lead facility for production of the Pentastar V-6 engine. A duplicate, new facility in Saltillo, Mexico, will ramp up for the 2012 model year.

5.7-liter HEMI® Engine (360 hp)

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is also available with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. It delivers 360 horsepower (268 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (520 N-m) @ 4,250 rpm and also features VVT, which delivers performance and towing capability, as well as fuel efficiency with the Multi-displacement System (MDS).

"Our HEMI engine maintains the key architecture that makes HEMI a household name in powertrains, including Variable-Valve Timing," said Jansen. "The HEMI continues to offer fuel economy and refinement, and maximizes performance and capability."

The HEMI engine's fuel-saving MDS seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not required, without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.

The HEMI's VVT improves fuel economy in two ways. First, it reduces the engine's pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more work to be transferred to the crankshaft instead of being rejected out of the exhaust port as heat. VVT improves engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers unsurpassed trailer tow capability of up to 7,400 lbs. on 4x2 models when coupled with the HEMI V-8.

5.7-liter HEMI V-8 Technical Specifications

• Availability: Optional - Laredo, Limited and Overland (2WD and 4WD)
• Type and Description: 90-degree V-type, liquid-cooled
• Displacement: 345 cu. in. (5654 cu. cm)
• Bore x Stroke: 3.92 x 3.58 (99.5 x 90.9)
• Valve System: Variable-Valve Timing, pushrod-operated overhead valves, 16 valves, eight deactivating and eight conventional hydraulic lifters, all with roller followers
• Fuel Injection: Sequential, multi-port, electronic, returnless
• Construction: Deep-skirt cast-iron block with cross-bolted main bearing caps, aluminum alloy heads with hemispherical combustion chambers
• Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
• Power: 360 hp (268 kW) @ 5,150 rpm
• Torque: 390 lb.-ft. (520 N-m) @ 4,250 rpm
• Max. Engine Speed: 5,800 rpm (electronically limited)
• Fuel Requirement: Unleaded mid-grade, 89 octane (R+M)/2-recommended, unleaded regular, 87 octane (R+M)/2-acceptable
• Oil Capacity: 7 qt. (6.6L)
• Coolant Capacity: 14.5 qt. (13.72L)
• Emission Controls: Dual close-coupled three-way catalytic converters, quad heated oxygen sensors and internal engine features (a)
• Fuel Economy mpg (City/Hwy): 14/20 - 2WD 13/19 - 4WD
• Assembly Plant: Saltillo Engine Plant, Saltillo, Mexico
• (a) Meets Calif. LEV II+ evaporative emission requirements in CA, NY, MA, ME, VT and Federal Bin 5+ Tier II emissions and Clean Fuel Fleet Certification (CCF).

For international markets, the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be available in left- and right-hand drive and offer a choice of diesel or petrol powertrains.

5. Safety and Security

All-new 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Offers More than 45 Advanced Safety and Security Features

• Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) includes Electronic Roll Mitigation, Hill-Start Assist, Trailer Sway Control and available Hill-Descent Control
• Standard full-length side-curtain air bags extend protection to front and rear outboard passengers
• Standard seat-mounted side thorax air bags enhance protection of the driver and front passenger
• Standard Jeep-first Active Head Restraints deploy in the event of a rear collision to minimize the gap between the head restraint and occupant's head
• ParkSense® Park Assist System assists at low speeds to detect stationary objects. Warnings include audible chimes and display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)
• Blind-spot/Rear cross-path detection system notifies driver of vehicle(s) in blind spots with illuminated icons on side-view mirrors and/or an audible chime
• Adaptive Cruise Control decreases vehicle's pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle or when another vehicle pulls into same lane (late availability)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system detects when the vehicle may be approaching another vehicle too rapidly and alerts driver (late availability)

The all-new 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee offers consumers 48 safety and security features including standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that delivers four security features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance both on- and off-road: Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) reacts and applies brakes during extreme situations, while available Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA) work with standard Trailer-Sway Control (TSC) to enhance off-road and towing capabilities.

"The Jeep team took into consideration every imaginable day-to-day driving condition and engineered safety and security into all aspects of the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee," said Scott Kunselman, Vice President - Jeep/Truck Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "With more than 45 safety and security features, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed to protect and perform on- and off-road."

Safety and security features available for the first time on the Jeep Grand Cherokee include Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection, which aid drivers when changing lanes or in parking lot situations. In addition, standard front row active head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags and standard seat-mounted side thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

Following is a complete list of 48 safety and security features available in the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee:

1. Active Head Restraints: Deploy in the event of a rear collision. Restraints are designed to reduce injuries by minimizing the gap between the head restraint and the passenger's head
2. Active Turn Signals: Turn signal flashes three times when stalk is depressed for one second to indicate a lane change
3. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): The system decreases the vehicle's pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle in the same lane, or when another vehicle pulls into the same lane. The system will accelerate to the pre-set speed when the vehicle in front speeds up or moves into another lane. ACC will maintain a driver adjustable distance between the vehicle and the one in front of it, allowing the use of cruise control in light traffic without having to continuously adjust settings
4. Advanced multi-stage air bags: Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact. Meets FMVSS 208 advanced air bag requirements for smaller, out-of-position occupants
5. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions
6. Anti-lock Brake System with rough-road detection: Anti-lock brake system is capable of detecting if the vehicle is driving on a rough road by the oscillations in the wheel speed signals. Rough road is detected on off-road surfaces or trails, and ABS enters a different pressure control where it will hold the brake pressure for longer pulses
7. BeltAlert: Activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without belted front-seat occupants
8. Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM): Uses dual ultra-wideband radar sensors to aid the driver when changing lanes or if being passed by or passing unseen vehicles. The system notifies the driver of vehicle(s) in their blind spot via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
9. Brake Assist: In an emergency brake situation, the system applies maximum braking power, minimizing the stopping distance
10. Brake Traction Control System (BTCS): Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning during acceleration from a stop or during slow speeds by applying individual brakes to the slipping wheel(s)
11. Child Seat Anchor System: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats
12. Constant-Force Retractors (CFR): Regulates the force exerted on the occupant by the seat belt, and then gradually releases seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner
13. Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM): An extension of Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Uses input from ESC sensors to anticipate if the vehicle is at risk of entering a potential roll situation, then applies the brakes individually and modulates the throttle position as needed
14. Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the benefit in critical driving situations such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions including snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the vehicle's path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver's intended path
15. Energy-absorbing Steering Column: The manual-adjust steering column utilizes two hydroformed coaxial tubes that can move relative to each other to allow the column to move forward for enhanced energy absorption during a crash. The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management
16. Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): Makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on the interior lighting and unlocking doors after air bag deployment. Also shuts off flow of fuel to the engine
17. Express Up/Down Windows: One-touch powered express up/down window button located on the front driver and passenger-side door
18. Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Using forward-facing radar sensors, this system detects when the vehicle may be approaching another vehicle too rapidly and alerts the driver so the driver can determine what action must be taken in order to prevent the vehicle from a collision
19. High-intensity Discharge (HID) Headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination
20. Hill-Descent Control (HDC): Allows smooth and controlled descent on rough or slippery terrain without the driver having to touch the brake pedal. Applies the brakes to each wheel individually when needed to reduce forward motion when negotiating steep grades
21. Hill-Start Assist (HSA): Assists drivers when starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal. If throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released
22. Keyless Go: When an individual enters the vehicle, electronic sensors detect if the vehicle key fob is present. The vehicle will then allow the individual to push a button to start the vehicle without having to insert the key into the ignition
23. Knee Bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant during impact, enabling air bags to work effectively
24. Navigation System: Voice-activated navigation system available with real-time traffic to provide precise guidance to destination through the use of Global
25. Positioning System (GPS) satellite technology
26. ParkSense® Rear-Park Assist System: Assists at low speeds in Reverse to detect stationary objects. Consists of audible warnings for the driver and has a display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) integrated into the instrument cluster
27. ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera: Provides a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle, giving the driver greater peace of mind before reversing at low speeds. Contains grid line to aid the driver when maneuvering into parking spaces or narrow areas. Also aids in lining up a trailer to the vehicle's trailer hitch, when so equipped. The image is displayed on the navigation screen when the transmission is shifted into Reverse
28. Passive Entry: When an individual approaches the vehicle, electronic sensors detect if the individual is in possession of the vehicle's matching key fob and the vehicle will unlock when the individual touches the door handle
29. Power Tilt-and-Telescoping Steering Column with Memory: Allows steering column to tilt and move toward or away from the driver to achieve a safe and comfortable distance from the advanced multi-stage front driver air bag, if deployed
30. Rain Brake Support: Uses the ESC pump to occasionally push brake pads lightly against brake rotors in rainy conditions in order to keep rotors dry
31. Rain-sensing Wipers: A driver convenience feature that automatically senses moisture on the windshield and activates wipers
32. Ready Alert Braking: Anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and uses the ESC pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application
33. Rear Cross Path (RCP): In parking lot situations, this system warns drivers backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle. It activates any time the vehicle is in Reverse. The driver is notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind the vehicle via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
34. Remote (fob) Operated Windows (front windows - down only): Enable an individual to cool down their vehicle passively by opening front windows remotely Remote Keyless Entry: Locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
35. Remote Start: Conveniently starts the engine and activates key comfort settings based on ambient conditions by using the key fob while maintaining vehicle security
36. Rollover Crash Sensing: Senses a rollover and deploys seat-belt pretensioners and/or standard full-length side-curtain air bags as needed
37. Seat-belt Pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat- belt pretensioners to remove slack in the seatbelt system, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant's head and torso
38. Sentry Key® Engine Im-mobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will shut off after a few seconds
39. Signal Mirrors: Signal lamp built into the housing of exterior mirrors allows turn signals to be viewed from the front, as well as the sides and rear of the vehicle in order to alert oncoming traffic and pedestrians
40. SmartBeam® Headlamps: Headlamp system adjusts to ambient light and oncoming traffic to deliver maximum lighting
41. Standard Full-Length Side-Curtain Air Bags: Extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. This type of air bag is housed in the headliner just above side windows
42. Standard Seat-Mounted Side Thorax Air Bags: Provide enhanced protection to the driver and front outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. Standard side air bags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat
43. Three-Point Seat Belts: Front outboard seating positions and all rear seating positions have lap and shoulder belts
44. Tire-Pressure Monitoring (TPM): Informs driver when tire pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver and the system
45. Trailer-Sway Control (TSC): Reduces trailer sway and improves handling in adverse towing conditions caused by crosswinds and traffic. The system monitors the vehicle's movement relative to the driver's intended path, then applies alternating brake pressure to slow the vehicle and then increases the pressure on one front wheel in order to counteract the sway induced by the trailer
46. Uconnect phone: Uses Bluetooth technology to provide voice-controlled wireless communication between the occupants' compatible mobile phone and the vehicle's onboard receiver
47. Uconnect studios: Features rear-seat infotainment, navigation, hands-free phone and iPod connectivity

The all-new 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee will offer customers an array of all-new and upgraded technologies for passenger enjoyment, courtesy of Chrysler LLC's uconnect® brand.

Music lovers will enjoy the ability to wirelessly stream music stored on compatible cellular phones through the vehicle's stereo system. In addition, connected iPod devices may now be accessed through voice commands by calling out the song title or artist, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.

Also debuting on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a uconnect radio featuring GPS navigation from Garmin. The new radio features Garmin's intuitive user-interface, and brings the Garmin consumer experience to a factory in-dash radio.

"Our approach to connected technology is holistic," said Marios Zenios, Vice President - Connectivity and Infotainment, Chrysler LLC. "We see the entire vehicle as one connected device that enables customers to connect to what matters most to them - family, friends, music, videos and the Internet. We continue to actively develop connectivity and infotainment technologies at Chrysler, anticipating what our customers not only want but expect in their vehicles."

uconnect is a user-friendly approach to today's world of connected technology. Whether it's portable media (DVD, CD, etc.), wired media (cable linking an MP3 player to a vehicle's sound system) or wireless media (cellular phones, satellite radio, Internet and streaming television), uconnect has a product to help customers stay connected.

uconnect technology includes five different feature groups: uconnect tunes, uconnect nav, uconnect studios, uconnect phone, and uconnect web.

uconnect tunes

uconnect tunes offers a selection of advanced music features, including two new music technologies in the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee:

• Wireless Bluetooth® connection for cell phones (and future MP3 players) that allows streaming music to be played over the car's sound system
• A new USB connection with digital technology, enabling voice search by song title and artist for iPod devices

In addition, uconnect tunes offers the following features:

• Voice-control of radio features, such as FM station selection and satellite radio selection by station name (e.g., "Play The Coffee House")
• A 30-gigabyte hard drive for ripping up to 6,700 songs from CD or USB memory devices in compressed format (either MP3, AAC or WMA file formats)
• MP3 player connections via two wired methods:
  - 3.5mm auxiliary input jack, standard on all radio systems
  - iPod connector cable - keeps devices charged and may be controlled via the radio or steering wheel controls
• SIRIUS Satellite Radio, with more than 130 channels of the best music, entertainment and information coast to coast

uconnect nav

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee debuts the latest entry for uconnect nav, Chrysler's suite of navigation systems. A new Garmin navigation system is available on the vehicle's mid-line stereo systems and features offerings similar to various Garmin navigation devices, including:

• 2-D and 3-D Maps
• Turn-by-turn directions with automatic re-routing
• Navteq maps and points of interest (POI)
• Speed limit and current speed displayed on main map
• "Where Am I" - A one-touch emergency locator that displays coordinates, nearest address, closest hospital, police and gas stations
• Find by name, address, category, coordinates and phone number
• Save favorites and customize routes and stops
• Add/delete via points along saved route
• Custom Chrysler vehicle icons
• Easy zoom with digital elevation basemap
• Trip computer with mileage log

uconnect studios

Featuring a 9-inch screen, uconnect studios offers optional SIRIUS Backseat TV, featuring three channels of family TV programming. The video screen offers inputs for use with popular gaming consoles.

DVD movies and SIRIUS Backseat TV can be displayed in the first-row radio screen, when equipped, for viewing by passengers. This feature is only available while the vehicle is in Park and is not available in all states.

uconnect phone

Using Bluetooth technology, uconnect phone provides voice-controlled wireless communication between the occupants' compatible mobile phones and the vehicle's onboard receiver. The hands-free system automatically downloads up to 1,000 phone book entries from supported phones. The system also recognizes three languages - English, French and Spanish. Voice commands can manage onboard phone book entries, select radio stations and access voice mail. Voice memos may be recorded using the microphone that's integrated within the rearview mirror. Three memos of up to 30 seconds each may be stored in the system.

uconnect web

Available from Mopar®, the system provides high-speed data transfer and flexibility, combining WiFi and cellular connectivity for a new level of wireless technology. The system transforms the vehicle into a "hot spot" to deliver the Internet directly to the vehicle, for instant access to Web sites, e-mail, personalized music, online gaming, photo albums and more.

Every facet of the development of the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee was aimed at addressing quality and reliability.

"Excellence comes through the execution of a well-thought-through plan," said Doug Betts, Vice President - Chief Customer Officer, Chrysler LLC. "Our all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a solid example of a well-thought-through plan properly executed."

Engineers will conduct approximately 7.5 million customer-equivalent miles for durability and reliability testing of the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Testing and validation in various climates include road trips to a variety of locations including Yucca, Arizona, Baudette, Minn. and Morgantown, West Virginia. A full battery of lab testing will include full-frame fatigue testing, door-slam testing and a road-test simulator.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has gone through more than 244 hours of wind noise and aerodynamic evaluations in Chrysler LLC's state-of-the-art aerodynamic and acoustic test facility in Auburn Hills, Mich.

Reliability and quality were achieved through extensive validation testing in developing the Jeep Grand Cherokee's all-new 3.6-liter V-6 engine. More than 3.3 million customer-equivalent miles were recorded on engine dynamometers prior to production. Severity testing was increased 50 percent versus previous Chrysler V-6 engines in order to accommodate high-load applications including trailer-towing.

The reduction of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) was a key objective for every component during the design phase of the engine and was achieved by utilizing an advanced computer-aided engineering technique.

The use of a Quality Assurance Fixture (QAF) assures a high level of compliance at the start of production. The QAF allows engineers to look at the interior of the vehicle on a "simulated perfect body" which is a milled aluminum shell where all attachment points are matched exactly to CATIA modeling earlier in the program. This allows changes and design improvements earlier in the manufacturing process.

The company also employs techniques of Design for Six Sigma (DFSS), which is folding in "voice of the customer" data along with lessons learned to ensure that every vehicle is of the highest quality. The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the first new vehicle to have more than 100 DFSS projects.

"We focused on perceived quality of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and worked with J.D. Power and Associates to address customer satisfaction and quality efforts through early evaluations of initial vehicles," said Betts. "We plan to execute this vehicle flawlessly by effectively responding to the voice of the customer."