srobertson

Jeep Grand Cherokee is completely re-engineered for 2005.

If ever there was an American icon, it is the Jeep. The brand began with the legendary Willys MB of World War II fame, and continues to thrive today. With their "go-anywhere, do-anything" spirit, Jeeps dodge the limitations of ordinary vehicles. Since its introduction in 1993, the Grand Cherokee has always been the best off-roader in the midsize SUV class. But most SUV buyers don't care about hard-core off-road capability. In fact, the majority of SUVs are purchased for their snow and ice functionality and, of course, style.

So when the second-generation Grand Cherokee arrived in 1999, it was stylish, powerful and even plush when compared to the original. It was also immensely popular -- 271,000 were sold in 2000. But heavy competition from American and import models told Jeep managers that a better-handling, more luxurious Grand Cherokee would be needed to carry on the Jeep legacy.

There are actually three Jeeps produced today, and a fourth is on the way -- the Commander. The Wrangler is the hardcore off-roader's Jeep, the Liberty competes in the compact-class category, and the Grand Cherokee is the mid-size do-all vehicle. Each has its target market and philosophy for tackling on and off-road challenges. The Wrangler, for example, uses mechanical locking differentials and an ultra-low-gear transfer case, whereas the new Grand Cherokee uses new-era electronics to get the torque where it needs to go when traction is minimal. Both systems work exceedingly well, but the Grand Cherokee's gets you to the outback and back without a bunch of ugly levers sprouting from the floor. Depending on which of three four-wheel-drive systems you choose, the only traction-control device you will see in the Cherokee is a pretty little chrome ring you lift to engage the off-road gearing -- the rest is controlled automatically.

But the biggest news is where all that torque comes from. Now that Daimler/Chrysler is in control, Jeep benefits from not only the Chrysler parts bins, but from Mercedes-Benz expertise and financial clout. Would a hot-rod Jeep interest you? All you have to do is specify the 330-horsepower hemi V-8 with a slick-shifting five-speed automatic transmission! Acceleration certainly won't be a problem with this combination, nor will towing capability. You can drag around anything weighing up to 7,200 pounds by engaging the tow-haul mode, and carry payloads up to 1,050 pounds. My test vehicle basically jumped off the line (the electronic throttle needs a light touch around town) and pulled strongly on up-hill grades. On the other hand, at times the hemi does run on just four cylinders, thanks to the fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System that is also used in the Chrysler 300C and Dodge Magnum. So seamless is the system, I couldn't tell when the engine was shutting down four of its cylinders while idling or cruising on the highway. If you have no need for 330-horsepower, there is a smaller 235-horsepower V-8 or a 210-horsepower V-6 engine.

You'll also be choosing one of three four-wheel-drive systems. Budget-minded buyers who merely need a little help on snowy roads should consider the Quadra-Trac I single-speed system that continuously engages all four wheels. It's standard on V-6 models. For those who know they'll be doing at least some off-roading, there's the Quadra-Trac II system, which provides both high- and low-range gearing. And for those serious rock climbers, there's Quadra-Drive II, that adds electronically controlled limited-slip differentials in both the front and rear, and electronic traction control utilizing the four-wheel anti-lock braking system.

The Grand Cherokee is available in two trim levels, Laredo and Limited. The Laredo includes power windows and door locks, air conditioning, eight-way power front seats with lumbar support, split-folding rear seat, a reversible cargo floor with water-resistant storage and a CD stereo. The Limited, which I tested, adds leather seating, unique 17-inch alloy wheels, an adjustable roof rack, power-adjustable pedals, rain-sensing automatic wipers, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability. My test vehicle had heated front seats, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, hands-free cell phone compatibility, a DVD-based navigation system, satellite radio and many other goodies, two of which I must elaborate on.

First, the dual-zone climate control. I'm a bit fussy about temperature control, but the new Grand Cherokee was up to the challenge. It samples not only the cabin air temperature and direct-sun heating, but also measures your personal body temperature with infrared technology! Could this be a cure for aggressive, hotheaded drivers?

The hands-free phone technology could also make our highways a safer place. I know -- hands-free technology has been around for years, but the Grand Cherokee uses the UConnect system that communicates with your Bluetooth-compatible phone and allows you to talk through the vehicle's speakers. Once your phone is linked, all you need to do to make a call is press a button on the rearview mirror and respond orally to the voice prompts.

My test vehicle provided a serene, pleasant highway ride that is a quantum leap from the previous Grand Cherokee. Its new, longer-travel suspension and variable-rate steering contributed to the car-like ride, but off-road enthusiasts will have to live with 1/2-inch less ground clearance, and slightly increased approach and departure angles. But in exchange they get an upscale, roomier interior, greatly increased power, and a state-of-the-art climate control system. For me, that spells a no-sweat trip to the outback.

Steve Robertson of Robertson's Creative Photography is a car enthusiast and former staff writer/photographer for the Southeast Missourian. Contact him at sjr1@robertsonsphotography.com.