Flagship for Jeep's line is the five-door Grand Cherokee wagon that enhances brakes and lowers the steering effort on 2003 issues. Handy innovations for Grand Cherokee range from rain-sensitive front windshield wipers to a tire pressure monitoring system, available curtain-style air bags and adjustable accelerator and brake pedals. Powertrains extend from the previous models, including the optional high-output 4.7-liter V8 for Overland with lavish on-board appointments. It's racked high to 265 hp with 330 lb-ft of torque. The Laredo model uses as its standard the 4.0-liter in-line-six coupled to a four-speed automatic transmission and Jeep's Selec-Trac 4WD device. Limited stocks either the six-pack or a 230 hp Power Tech 4.7-liter V8 with Selec-Trac or permanently-engaged Quadra-Drive 4WD system operating in concert with Vari-Lok axles to draw on the Quadra-Trac II hydro-mechanical speed-sensing differentials. The device channels engine torque to rear wheels for driving on pavement or for more serious off-road work sends power to any one or more of the four wheels that can support traction. Expect new colors to define the top Jeep this year, like Light Pewter Metallic and Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat.
