2011 Grand Cherokee
Auto Advisor Group
Bruce Hubbard
Jeep Grand Cherokee’s seen in this article include basic Grand Cherokee Laredo with Quadra Trac 1 transmission. The high end Grand Cherokee with massive sunroof and with superb leather interior, navigational system also has the best QUADRA TRAC system with the air-suspension option which could rival the Range Rover or Porsche Cayenne’s. You can raise or lower the Grand Cherokee with the push of a button allowing you to travel over boulders or logs or even traverse the stream you may encounter.
If you are a Jeep lover the Grand Cherokee can deliver a lot for little money or spend the dollars and get all the best in systems. If you want more I cannot believe what MOPAR is offering for JEEP lovers. Check it out at my blog autoadvisorgroup.blogspot.com under MOAB Jeep event.
High end trail Rated Grand Cherokee Overland
Jeep has won over 30 awards this year for the Grand Cherokee. “We are delighted that the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has received nearly 30 influential awards from a variety of respected journalist and industry publications and organizations,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The breadth and variety of this recognition reinforces the fact that Jeep’s premium icon delivers a unique blend of on-road refinement, superb craftsmanship, world-class design, improved fuel economy, innovative features, legendary real-world capability, and value.”
Special Grill and front end on high end Cherokee Overland
High end wheels and Michelin Tires on Laredo Overland.
Grand Cherokee Overland heated wheel with leather and wood.
Power will increase this summer for the Grand Cherokee when the recently introduce SRT-8 was shown at the New York Auto Show will be in show rooms and they will be amazing!
“Our all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is much more refined, focused and sportier than the model it replaces,” said Ralph Gilles, Senior Vice President — Product Design, Chrysler Group LLC. “It has classic Jeep Grand Cherokee styling with sculpted athletic exterior refinements for 2011.” He stated the same to me in San Francisco when I drove the Durango, Avenger,200, Journey, Challenger, and Charger. Looks as if every Chrysler/Fiat vehicle will have a performance version soon.
New Pentastar 3.6 Liter V 6 Gasoline Engine
All Grand Cherokee models come standard with the new V-Six engine which produces 290 hp at 6400 rpm and 260 lb-ft at 4800 rpm. That is an increase in 80 horses and 25 foot pounds of torque over the engine that had been in the previous Grand Cherokee. The 24-valve, 3.6-liter V-6 features dual overhead cams and an aluminum block and heads. Previous models had iron blocks. Both the intake and exhaust timing are variable, yet the engine employs traditional port fuel injection. The torque curve is broad, with 90 percent of max twist available from 1600 to 6400 rpm. Maximum engine speed is 7200 rpm. The Laredo X, the Limited, and the Overland can then be upgraded to the award winning 360-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with 390 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic is the only transmission and all trims can be outfitted with rear- or four-wheel drive. For those of us that must tow know that 5000 pounds of towing ability comes with the Pentastar six cylinder. For maximum towing of over 7400 pounds you must get the 5.7-liter MDS V-8 engine which features VVT, which delivers performance and towing capability, and fuel efficiency with fuel-saving MDS. The MDS seamlessly alternates between smooth high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power from the 5.7-liter MDS engine is requested. This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not needed, without sacrificing vehicle performance. The 545RFE multi-speed overdrive automatic transmission has enhancements for 2011 include quieter transmission operation, cooler operation on the transmission oil cooler (improved trailer towing capability), improved shift feel for the full range of throttle, addition of Electronic Range Select (ERS).
Towing package is on the Inferno Red Pentastar Version. Single exhaust chromed for Pentastar V-6 but twin for the MDS V-8.
Trailer Sway Control senses trailer sway and takes action by automatically applying the right amount of braking to maintain control. Just knowing it's there offers a level of security and confidence for the driver.
High end Grand Cherokee Overland with enhanced front end and tow rings.
Here are few photographs of the entry level and high end models of the 2011 Grand Cherokee. Let me say that whether a basic Laredo or high end Overland the vehicles are superb. Serious off-roaders will want the air-suspension and perhaps some other accessories that MOPAR offers. This was the first vehicle that Fiat/Chrysler brought to the market together and it had to be superb.
Grand Cherokee Laredo with upgraded interior including sunroof, leather.
Basic Grand Cherokee Laredo interior.
The Inferno Fire Red Grand Cherokee Overland had the optional Quadra track II transmission, leather interior, panoramic sunroof and more. The Red one has it all at a price $43,695.00! The basic Laredo is also seen here that was the only model I drove with a superb fabric interior. The Laredo was the basic 4 x 4 with Quadra Trac I, no sunroof or navigational system or park assist, heated seats but still is a winner at $32,995.00.
High end Overland Grand Cherokee with heated steering wheel with wood and leather.
WOOD,LEATHER WRAPPED AND HEATED STEERING WHEEL ON THE GRAND CHEROKEE OVERLAND 4 X 4. NOT AVAILABLE ON THE LAREDO 4 X 2 OR 4 X 4.
Basic Laredo steering wheel.
The steering wheel on the basic Laredo and the Luxurious Overland are compared in this photo. Both are tilt and telescopic. However, the Overland has electrical controls for tilt and telescopic movement plus the heated wheel and leather/wood.
Chrysler states that the 2011 is the most capable Jeep ever. The frame is a carry over from the Mercedes ML. The Grand Cherokee steering system was developed jointly between Chrysler and Mando (steering gear supplier).Most important is the new Grand Cherokee does not have the live axle as previous generations had. The Grand Cherokee has now an independent multilink suspension. Add Selec-Terrain with Quadra transmission turns the Jeep into what we have always loved in the Range Rover models. The Selec-Terrain seen in the photo allows the driver to raise the vehicle or lower it with the buttons. Off road packages including Off-Road Adventure II for higher end models can get the wonderful air suspension.
The Grand Cherokee Selec-Terrain System was developed by Chrysler with involvement of TRW for stability / brake traction control, ZF for RR electronic differential control and Magna for T-case control.
The Off Road Adventure II package (adds$ 275.00) also includes a two-speed transfer case, off-road rubber, skid plates, a Trail Rated badge, and the high end Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system, although the last item is unavailable with the V-6. Eighteen-inch wheels replace the Overland’s standard and Jeep-first 20-inchers when an off-road pack is specified; 17s are fitted to entry-level Laredos.
The All-New 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee is the first SUV to use the latest closed-type air suspension technology. The Quadra-Lift™ Air Suspension uses a closed type system to store pressurized air from a reservoir in order to lift the front and rear air springs. Key benefits of a closed type system include: decreased time to change ride height, quieter operation, and consistent performance at higher altitudes.
From the Press kit JEEP stated the following on the system that is a must to me :
“The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers the new Quadra-Lift air suspension system. The Quadra-Lift air suspension system features five height settings for optimum ride performance”:
- Normal Ride Height (NRH): 8.1 inches of clearance offers improved fuel economy and improved aerodynamics during on-road driving
- Off-road 1: Lifts the vehicle an additional 1.3 inches for added height in clearing obstacles (9.4 inches)
- Off-road 2: Delivers Jeep off-road capability and provides an additional 2.6 inches of height for 10.7 inches of ground clearance
- Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 1.5 inches from NRH for easy ingress/egress and roof rack loading. NRH and Park mode are driver-selectable, giving the driver 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 4.1 inches of lift span that is supported by four-corner air springs that provide a cushioned, premium ride. Quadra-Lift operates automatically, or may be controlled manually via console controls.
In addition to the Quadra-Lift air suspension system, the all-new Selec-Terrain traction control system lets customers choose the off-road setting for the optimum experience on all terrains. This feature electronically coordinates up to 12 different powertrain, braking and suspension systems, including throttle control, transmission shift, transfer case, traction control and electronic stability control (ESC).
The Selec-Terrain’s control dial allows the driver to choose from five driving conditions in order
to achieve the best driving experience on all terrains:
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 is 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 adjusts for ultimate performance over snow-covered roads
- Rock: Quadra-Lift air suspension system raises to maximum height (10.7 inches) and
the transfer case, differentials, and throttle coordinate to provide low-speed control
With the front air dam removed, and the available Quadra-Lift air suspension system, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee features a 34.3-degree approach angle, (compared to 32.3 on previous model), a 29.3-degree departure angle (compared to 27.5 on previous model) and 23.1-degree breakover angle (compared to 20.4 on previous model).
The all-new front and rear independent suspension features isolated front and rear suspension cradles. Variable-rate rear springs deliver improved on-road handling and comfort that complements the vehicle’s off-road capability. The new rear suspension allows the spare tire to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath.
Quadra-Trac I is the basic setup and is only available on Laredo models. With a single-speed transfer case and a fixed 50/50 torque split front to rear and electronic brake-based torque. Quadra-Trac II, available on the Laredo X and other higher end models, has a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low range. It can run up to 50 percent of the torque to the front wheels or 100 percent to the rear based on available traction. The Hemi-only Quadra-Drive II setup standard on Overlands and available on the Limited and Laredo X, adds an actual electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential.
The Quadra-Trac II® two-speed transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors in order to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximizes traction before slippage occurs. When tire slippage is detected, as much as 100 percent of the available torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction.
Inside the entry level Laredo or the high end Overland Grand Cherokees you immediately notice that the fit and finish are superb. The 2011 models have soft plastics, optional leather on high end models with wood trim as seen in the Red Model I photographed.
The seats are comfortable on all models and the interior is quiet even when at speeds above 70 miles per hour.
The GRAND CHEROKEE’S front shows off the Jeep’s classic seven-slot grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel arches. The removable lower front fascia delivers improved fuel economy, on-road performance and off-road capability. The lower front fascia features a large chromed appliqué (Limited and Overland models) that showcases available tow hooks. From the side, Jeep Grand Cherokee features an athletic, muscular profile. Available chromed mirrors and door handles add to the profile and complement the full-chromed surround on all models.
My photo of the Red Grand Cherokee’s roof shows off the optional all-new CommandView dual-pane sunroof that provides twice as much glass surface than a standard sunroof and extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle. 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 power sunshade.
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers customers an array of infotainment technologies for driver safety and passenger enjoyment. The features enable drivers to safely communicate, navigate and select entertainment options using advance voice recognition controls. Passengers can stay entertained with a multitude of features, including SIRIUS Satellite Radio™, SIRIUS Backseat TV™, Uconnect® Navigation, Uconnect Phone and Uconnect Web.
Cargo volume behind the Grand Cherokee’s second row provides an additional 5.6 cubic feet of room (35.1 cubic feet total) compared to the previous model. If more cargo space is needed folding the rear seats delivers approximately 68.3 cubic feet.
An older Grand Cherokee is shown with the new 2011 Grand Cherokee Laredo. I had a 4” x 4” by 12 footer inside hanging out the rear hatch. With the newer model I had to keep the rear hatch open to transport the 4 x 4. That is inconvenient on a long journey even when the hatch is tied shut. The older model had a flip up rear glass that allowed me to hang out the rear glass a long object.
Entry level Grand Cherokee Laredo
The 114.8-inch wheelbase of the 2011 Grand Cherokee is more than five inches longer than before. The extra distance between the wheels was put to use largely in the rear seat, where riders get an additional 3.1 inches of legroom. Even though the Grand Cherokee is 3.7 inches wider, a half-inch of shoulder room was lost in the front and rear seats. The well-appointed rear cargo area includes a storage unit with a removable/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 as is shown in photo.
Power liftgate on Grand Cherokee Overland
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes more than 45 safety and security features and is a 2011 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick.
Standard safety features according to Chrysler/Jeep Press Kit include electronic stability control (ESC), electronic roll mitigation (ERM), four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) with rough-road detection, four-wheel brake traction control system, Keyless Enter-N-Go, remote keyless entry, express up/down windows for driver and front-seat passenger, seat-belt pretensioners, Trailer-sway Control and remote start, which is standard on Limited and Overland and available on Laredo models.
Other standard safety features include full-length side-curtain air bags, which extend protection to front and rear outboard passengers, seat-mounted side thorax air bags that enhance protection for the driver and front passenger, and active head restraints, which deploy in the event of a rear collision.
The body structure is all new and designed to achieve expected safety performance in global markets (new roof-crush standards, side-impact standards and European pedestrian impact standards).
4 x 2 Grand Cherokees range from $30,995 to $39,495, and $32,995 gets the least-expensive four-wheel-drive model, the Laredo. A four-wheel-drive Overland begins at $42,995. Fully loaded, the Grand Cherokee Overland will cost $47,500.00 which is outstanding if you compare the cost of the ML550 4Matic, Range Rover or Porsche Cayenne. Near the price of the Grand Cherokee are the Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9 but cannot match the off-road abilities of the Grand Cherokee models.
Jeep has a great web site for the customer who wishes to build their own Grand Cherokee.
My wish besides owning the 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT-8 version would be to see Jeep or MOPAR offer, as Infiniti does with their QX56 birds eye view cameras. Amazing with five cameras I could view even the large logs I was traversing from birds eye, front and rear. Simply one of the best systems I have ever used.
All photos of the Grand Cherokee’s were taken with my high resolution Canon EOS digital cameras set at 400 ASA. A Polarizing Filter was used on most of the shots. When photographing vehicles a Polarizing filter is a plus. You can move the glare from the glass or side of the vehicle. Then using Master Collection of Photoshop I converted to web size images. If you wish with Photoshop and HDR you can produce even 30 x 60 inch color prints. Using layer (which I did not use this time) you can create amazing images that allow for even Blacks and White to look perfect.
Visit my PHOTO website brucehubbardphotography.ifp3.com
Autoadvisorgroup.blogspot.com
AutoChannel.com and link to Bruce Hubbbard
AUBURN HILLS CHRYSLER FIAT USA HEADQUARTERS WITH JEEP POSTER ON BUILDING I PHOTOGRAPHED IN FALL OF 2010.
CHRYSLER JEEP FACILITY ON EAST JEFFERSON, DETROIT THAT BUILDS JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE AND DODGE DURANGO. I USED MY CANON CAMERA TO CAPTURE . 2000TH OF A SECOND AT F8 WITH POLARIZER.
I appreciate all of the information that you have shared. Thank you for the hard work!
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