Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond Edition, 2011

 

 

 

• Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond Edition, 2011

Cadillac with Black Diamond Edition of the high-performance CTS-V that comes with a host of popular performance options and an exclusive tri-coat paint.

The Black Diamond Edition,  the CTS-V Sedan, Coupe and Wagon models, will be the first use by an automaker of JDSU's proprietary SpectraFlair pigment in North America. JDSU, a Milipitas, Calif.,-based optical technology firm, specializes in cutting-edge color solutions for a wide range of markets. Its pigments are used in certain DuPont paints supplied to Cadillac.

In the Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond, a dark tri-coat paint is embedded with SpectraFlair Bright Silver pigment. While other luxury makers offer metallic paints, Black Diamond is created through a meticulous process that gives the paint added dimension.

Instead of simply containing small bits of metal, the SpectraFlair pigment in Black Diamond uses aluminum flakes encapsulated in a glass-like substance called magnesium fluoride. The result is a paint that has a diamond-like sparkle as light hits the surface from different angles.

Black Diamond helps Cadillac meet growing demand by luxury buyers for paints that are set apart not just by their color but also by their special effects.

In addition to the unique paint, Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond comes standard with content that complements its look and feel. The special edition has:

• Satin Graphite 19-inch wheels with yellow Brembo brake calipers. These six-piston front, four-piston back brake calipers provide exceptional stopping capabilities.
• Recaro seats that feature 14 adjustable elements, French-stitched leather and microfiber suede inserts in the center sections of the cushions and seatbacks.
• Midnight Sapele wood trim known for its durability and distinctive grain.

The Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond comes with a suggested retail price, including destination charges, of $69,190 for the manual or $70,490 for the automatic, a $4,850 premium over the CTS-V base price. The CTS-V Black Diamond will be available at U.S. dealerships in March 2011.

The CTS-V Black Diamond Edition joins Cadillac's award-winning V-Series line of performance luxury vehicles. The CTS-V Sedan, Coupe and Wagon all feature a supercharged 6.2L V8 engine with 556-horspower, Magnetic Ride Control suspension that reads and reacts to the road 1,000 times a second and Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tire.

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Hummer H3T Alpha, 2009

 

 

 

Hummer H3T Alpha, 2009

The HUMMER is bringing its unmistakable style and unmatched capability to the truck market with the 2009 H3T. It is based on the architecture of the popular H3, but features a five-passenger crew cab and a separate five-foot-long (1.5 meters) bed.

The Hummer H3T is bigger than a midsize truck and smaller than a full-size truck, creating its own niche in the market. It also is infused with the attributes expected of a HUMMER, including exceptional off-road capability and a premium interior that is as functional as it is comfortable.

In addition to its segment-defying size, The Hummer H3T also stands apart from other trucks with its signature HUMMER off-road capability. It is the only midsize truck to come standard with full-time four-wheel drive, 32-inch tires and functional skid shields. It also is the only midsize truck to offer front and rear locking differentials, as well as 33-inch tires. The V-8-powered H3T Alpha can tow up to 5,900 pounds (2,676 kg).

The Hummer H3T is  in four trim levels, including five-cylinder models and the popular, V-8-powered H3T Alpha edition. Production is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2008 at GM's Shreveport, La., assembly plant, with vehicles arriving at HUMMER dealerships shortly thereafter. HUMMER will sell The Hummer H3T in North America, Europe and the Middle East.

The Design
Like all HUMMER models, The Hummer H3T has a purposeful design. Its consistent and iconic styling cues include a wide, aggressive stance; a low roofline and high beltline; and large, off-road tires. The wide, seven-slot grille and round headlamps mounted in square housings are signature HUMMER design elements.

The crew cab body shares H3 styling and components from the B-pillar forward, while the rear section of the cab and the separate bed are unique to The Hummer H3T. The five-foot bed is similar in design and function to GM's recently redesigned full-size trucks, including an easily removable tailgate and provisions for a bed-rail accessory system. A full-size spare tire is mounted beneath the bed.

The bed is sized to carry a wide range of popular outdoor necessities, from hauling motocross bikes to Baja, a quad to camp, or backcountry gear to the trailhead. One of the industry's largest portfolios of accessories complements The Hummer H3T's bed, offering different cargo management options to suit all of those lifestyle interests.

The Accessories
One of the industry's broadest portfolios of vehicle accessories has been developed for The Hummer H3T. Centered on active lifestyles, items such as removable and lockable bed-mounted storage boxes; an adjustable bike chock that can be used to help secure mountain bikes or motorcycles; and a bed extender make full use of the standard bed-rail cargo management system. A range of additional accessories that improves off-road capabilities, provides passenger entertainment and enhances exterior styling is also available. There are more than 75 HUMMER Genuine Accessories offered.

In addition to the factory-developed accessory portfolio, HUMMER has partnered with top automotive aftermarket companies to develop more than 50 Officially Licensed HUMMER Accessories - a first for the brand. A variety of exterior enhancements, such as a Slant Back Bed Cover, hard tonneau covers and a winch are offered, along with cargo management solutions such as the BedSlide and bed divider, offering countless possibilities to personalize The Hummer H3T.

The Interior
The Hummer H3T's crew cab cabin offers seating for five adults, with a 60/40-split rear bench seat that folds flat for increased cargo-carrying options. The cabin's layout is essentially identical to the acclaimed H3 SUV, with premium materials and attention to detail that give the vehicle a functional yet refined aesthetic.

Standard amenities also include air conditioning, power locks, power windows and remote keyless entry. An AM/FM radio with CD is standard and a premium Monsoon audio system is available. XM Satellite Radio also is standard and includes three months of trial service.

HUMMER's Rear Vision system and a navigation system are available. The Rear Vision system uses a camera mounted on the rear bumper, directly above the trailer hitch mount, to provide a view of objects directly behind the vehicle. Also, the safety and security of OnStar is standard, with Turn-By-Turn Navigation and hands-free Bluetooth connectivity available.

The Powertrain
Standard in The Hummer H3T is the Vortec 3.7L I-5 with dual overhead cams and variable valve timing. This inline five-cylinder engine offers an excellent combination of power and efficiency, delivering 242 horsepower (180 kW) at 5600 rpm* and 242 lb.-ft. of torque (328 Nm) at 4600 rpm. It is backed by a five-speed manual transmission or an available four-speed, electronically controlled automatic.

The Hummer H3T Alpha's 5.3L engine is a powerful and efficient member of GM's legendary small-block V-8 family. It is rated at 300 horsepower (224 kW)* and 320 lb.-ft. of torque (434 Nm).* An aluminum cylinder block is used with the H3 Alpha's engine. It helps reduce overall mass and maintains a more desirable front-to-rear weight balance.

A Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission is paired with the 5.3L engine. Flat towing is enabled on all H3 and H3T models.

Chassis
The Hummer H3T's frame and suspension system are based on a stretched version of the H3 SUV's chassis and suspension - the same race-proven design found on Baja 1000-winning stock-class race trucks. The wheelbase measures 134.2 inches (3,409 mm) - 22 inches (86 mm) longer than the H3 SUV.

A ladder-type frame is the truck's foundation and it has a modular, three-piece design that incorporates fully boxed components for outstanding strength and stiffness. An independent SLA torsion bar front suspension and multileaf Hotchkiss-type rear suspension are used. There are two suspension packages:
    * Z85 Heavy-Duty Handling and Trailering - This standard suspension delivers an excellent balance of on-highway comfort and off-road capability. It includes 32-inch all-terrain tires mounted on 16-inch, smoke-color steel wheels, specially tuned heavy-duty shocks and either a 4.56-ratio (3.7L) or 4.10-ratio (5.3L) rear axle.
    * Off-Road Adventure - Designed for more aggressive off-road performance, this optional suspension package includes taller, 33-inch tires, specifically tuned shocks, locking front and rear differentials, 4.03:1 low-range gearing in the transfer case and industry-leading crawl ratios of either 68.9 with the manual transmission or 56.2 with the automatic.

To support the torque output of the 5.3L V-8, The Hummer H3T Alpha's front differential case is made of cast iron; other models feature an aluminum case. V-8-powered vehicles also receive higher torsion bar rates to support the increased mass and specific shock valving. The chassis and suspensions were validated in real-world testing on off-road trails in Moab, Utah; the Rubicon Trail in California, and other challenging off-road venues.

Off-road capability
The Hummer H3T lives up to HUMMER's legendary off-road reputation, with best-in-class extreme off-road capability. Highlights:

•     * Ability to climb a 60-percent grade and traverse a 40-percent side slope
•     * Exceptional 10.2-inch (285 mm) ground clearance (with 33-inch tires)
•     * 38.7-degree approach angle and 30.1-degree departure angle (with 33-inch tires)
•     * Segment-first available front- and rear-locking differentials
•     * Standard HUMMER Hill Hold Assist for improved hill ascension

Complementing the features that enable The Hummer H3T's impressive off-road prowess are a host of first-class protective elements, including four standard skid shields: a front shield, an oil-pan shield/front-axle shield, a transfer case shield and a fuel tank shield.

Safety
Continuing HUMMER's tradition of delivering a broad range of safety systems, The Hummer H3T offers the following standard features:

•     * Dual frontal air bags with GM's passenger sensing system
•     * Head curtain side-impact air bags
•     * StabiliTrak electronic vehicle stability control system
•     * Four-wheel ABS with traction control
•     * Tire pressure monitoring system
•     * LATCH rear child seat anchors
•     * OnStar with one-year Safe & Sound service

The Hummer H3T was also designed for vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility in the event of a crash, and its rigid body structure provides good passenger protection.

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Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline, 2012

 

 

 

 

Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline, 2012

Evolving into the largest homecoming of modern Dodge rear-wheel-drive performance cars, the seventh annual Spring Festival of LXs marked the perfect opportunity to reveal the new 2012 Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline. With its powerful and efficient 305 horsepower engine, paddle-shifting transmission, performance suspension designed to maximize the muscle car's near 50/50 weight distribution for improved handling, and all-new red hot styling enhancements — this new Challenger delivers exactly what Dodge fans want.

New red hot styling details
Based on the 2012 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus, the new Challenger Rallye Redline model adds even more 'bad boy' attitude and head-turning style to the brand's iconic coupe.

Flanking the center of the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline's performance hood scoops, roof and deck lid is its signature Redline Red stripe with two thin side stripes for added detail. A body-color painted deck-lid spoiler adds to the performance look, while continuing the Redline Red triple stripe pattern at the center.

Filling the wheel wells, the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline features new 20-inch Pitch Black wheels with a Redline Red lip and inner drum for a one-of-a-kind look. In addition, wider P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires provide greater contact with the road and a lower sidewall profile for improved steering precision and at-the-limit handling.

All-new to the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline model is the availability of heated front performance seats in Radar Red leather. In addition, Dodge Challenger's class-exclusive seating for five may be wrapped in Dark Slate Gray leather.
The Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline is available in four colors, including Bright Silver Metallic, Tungsten Metallic, Bright White and Pitch Black.

Track-tuned performance
The new 2012 Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline combines world-class ride and refinement with its 305 horsepower aluminum Pentastar V6 engine and track-tuned performance suspension to deliver a thrilling driving experience.

The Dodge Challenger's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine features a cold-air induction system and dual exhausts from the headers back to the exhaust tips for maximum output. The result is 305 track-ready horsepower (227 kW) at 6,350 rpm and a responsive 268 lb.-ft. (363 N•m) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The engine's torque exceeds 90 percent of its peak value from 1,800 to 6,400 rpm, which provides outstanding drivability and responsiveness. Thanks to its all-aluminum design, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine provides the new Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline with a 52.4 / 47.6 front-to-rear weight distribution for improved balance and handling.

Enabling even more spirited driving with its five-speed Auto Stick transmission are die-cast zinc steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. Race-inspired with precision feel, Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline's paddle shifters are ergonomically located behind the sporty thick-rimmed three-spoke Dodge steering wheel for maximum control.

And to deliver improved all around acceleration, the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline replaces its 2.65:1 ear-axle ratio for a more responsive 3.06:1 unit.

Upping the ante, the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline features the Super Sport Group as standard equipment and includes: performance-tuned suspension with 42 percent firmer front and 22 percent firmer rear monotube shocks. A larger 1.18-inch (30 mm) front and a 0.78-inch (20 mm) rear-sway bar replace 1.06-inch (27 mm) and 0.62-inch (16 mm) bars, respectively and add to the Dodge Challenger's cornering capabilities. A performance-tuned steering calibration delivers 25 percent quicker steering and 20 percent heavier on-center feel. Topping off the handling upgrade are larger and wider 20 x 8.0-inch (replacing 18 x 7.5-inch) wheels with wider P245/45R20 all-season performance tires (replacing P235/55R18 tires).

Making sure the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline delivers world-class levels of stopping power, larger performance disc brakes replace the standard set. At the front, dual-piston front calipers replace single-piston units and larger 13.6 x 1.26-inch (345 x 28 mm) vented rotors replace 12.6 x 1.1-inch (320 x 28 mm) vented rotors. At the rear, 12.6 x 0.87-inch (320 x 22 mm) vented rotors replace 12.6 x 0.4-inch (320 x 10 mm) solid rotors.

Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline also includes a tremendous level of standard equipment found on every 2012 Challenger SXT Plus, including: Uconnect hands-free phone, six Boston Acoustic Speakers with 276-watt amplifier, premium Nappa leather faced seats, heated front seats, SIRIUS/XM satellite radio with 12-month subscription, fog lamps, dual exhausts, automatic temperature control, power 10-way driver's seat, cruise control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Keyless Enter 'n Go, and six standard airbags.

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Dodge Grand Caravan, 2011

 

 

 Dodge Grand Caravan, 2011

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan available in four configurations that fit almost any lifestyle: the Express, Mainstreet, Crew, and arriving in spring 2011, the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T.

NEW PENTASTAR V-6 ENGINE DRIVES THE CHANGES
At the heart of the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is an all-new powertrain. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transaxle. The potent combination replaces all three of the previous minivan engines. Gone are the 3.3-liter, 3.8-liter and 4.0-liter V-6 engines, all replaced with one high-tech, high-performing and highly responsive motor that hits the sweet spot between power and efficiency.

With the Pentastar engine, the new Grand Caravan delivers best-in-class horsepower (283 hp compared with 197 hp in the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine) and more torque (260 lb.-ft. versus 230 lb.-ft.) without sacrificing fuel economy.

The 2011 Grand Caravan also features a new driver-selectable fuel economizer mode. Drivers can change the transaxle shift schedule with the flip of a switch to maximize their fuel economy. In addition, a 12 mm lower ride height, new premium, lower-rolling resistance tires, a new spoiler and reduced brake caliper and rear bearing drag all contribute to Dodge Grand Caravan's class-leading aerodynamics and excellent fuel economy.

DRIVER'S ATTITUDE DRIVES DESIGN
The Dodge has also redesigned the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan to match its new attitude about driving. A new front fascia that sports the new Dodge signature "split crosshair" grille, a new hood and quad headlamps all combine to give the face of the 2011 Grand Caravan a more aggressive feel. A new, more sculpted rear fascia and liftgate, new rear "ring of fire" LED taillamps and new Dodge badge complete the look from front to back.

The latest innovation from the minivan leader: the Stow 'n Place™ roof rack system that lets owners stow the roof bows in the side rails when they're not using them and snap them easily into place when needed. The ability to stow the roof bows when they're not being used means less aerodynamic drag and wind buffeting and better overall efficiency.

Owners will step inside to an all-new world-class interior for 2011. A modern, new one-piece instrument panel is more intuitive for the customer with improved ergonomics and larger, redesigned gauges. An available new "super" center console provides clever functionality and storage for the active commuter, as well as easy driver/passenger access with a pass-through storage space for larger items, like a purse. Trim rings in the console glow an ambient blue-green color, allowing passengers to find the items they are looking for at night.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan also features more comfortable, larger Stow 'n Go seats with a new, easy to use one-touch fold-down function. New, premium seating materials and new door trim are soft to the touch. A new Dodge brand steering wheel with integrated controls for audio, navigation and speed control also offers a minivan-first heated steering wheel option. The best storage in the segment rounds out the improved interior.

MORE THAN 40 SAFETY, SECURITY AND TECHNOLOGY FEATURES KEEP FAMILIES SAFE AND CONNECTED
Safety and security features include standard front seat-mounted side air bags, a new driver-side knee blocker air bag, three-row side-curtain air bags, electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring and remote keyless entry. The available Safety Sphere package of features includes Park Sense rear park assist system, Park View rear backup camera, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection system, rain-sensitive wipers and automatic headlamps.

PACKAGED TO MEET A VARIETY OF LIFESTYLES
R/T is where versatility meets performance and attitude. Uniquely designed both inside and out, the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T proves a driver doesn't have to give up a spirited driving experience or their identity when they have a family. The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T throws down the gauntlet for a whole new level of cool transportation for families on the go.

With sleek, athletic styling; smart, cutting-edge entertainment features; flexible seating and cool storage options, the reliability of a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and models that fit specific lifestyles, the new Dodge Grand Caravan moves families where they need to go in a way that makes the journey of life easier.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is available in eight paint colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat, Stone White Clear Coat, Mango Tango Pearl Coat (late availability) and Dark Charcoal Coat (late availability).

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Citroen DS High Rider Concept, 2010

 

 

Citroen DS High Rider Concept, 2010

The Citroën has released first details on the striking Citroën DS High Rider Concept unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. It is the second concept associated with Citroën's innovative and distinctively styled DS line.

Without denying the appeal of conventional coupés, Citroën DS High Rider Concept represents a bold and radical vision of the future, combining compact dimensions with generous internal volumes, dynamic performance, sophisticated style and consummate quality.

Unlike traditional 4-seater coupés, with their long, low design, the Citroën DS High Rider Concept is compact and muscular.

Its character is expressed in its unique driving sensations, with a sleek flowing windscreen that soars over the heads of front occupants - hinting at a bright and spacious cabin environment. The apparently continuous glazed area of the side windows connects the A-pillars to the gently sloping roof line of the rear.

Planted firmly on stylish 19" alloy wheels and beautifully in proportion, Citroën DS High Rider Concept's confident profile is characterised by its high waistline. Its front end is purposeful with gaping air intakes, long incisive headlights and defined ridges along the bonnet.

The Citroën DS High Rider Concept is an expression of automotive luxury and elegance - exemplified by its glossy golden paintwork and brushed chrome trim that accentuate the car's flowing lines. The roof is covered with a coated textile material - a tactile feature of quality.

Just 4.26m long, 1.82m wide & 1.48m high, Citroën DS High Rider Concept combines a neat and nimble chassis, for responsive handling, with intelligent design architecture that provides occupants with a generous amount of internal space.

The Citroën DS High Rider Concept's ability to rise above conventional design constraints is also reflected in its choice of power. Offering an enjoyable driving experience with dynamic on-road performance, Citroën DS High Rider Concept is respectful of the environment with an advanced 'Full Hybrid' diesel drivetrain that combines a refined HDi DPFS engine under the bonnet with an electric motor located on the rear axle. The hybrid platform enables Citroën DS High Rider Concept to combine the fuel efficiency and power of an HDi diesel engine with the ecological benefits of a new generation electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle). Under certain conditions, both engines combine to deliver additional power with additional torque transmitted to the rear wheels.

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Citroen GQ Concept, 2010

 

 

 

Citroen GQ Concept, 2010

The Citroën GQ Concept was born through a unique partnership between the UK's market-leading quality men's monthly and a team of Citroën designers, collaborating to create the ultimate gentleman's drive. This is the first time a British magazine has collaborated with a car company in this way.

Responding to a brief by GQ's editor, Dylan Jones, Citroën's team, headed by British designer - and the man responsible for the new Citroën DS3 - Mark Lloyd, took a new look at the GT theme and integrated it with a typical Citroën design approach bringing Citroën GQ Concept from design outline to concept reality.

The Citroën GQ Concept combines classically sophisticated features and contemporary styling with a sculpted front end, rounded rear, strong body contours and sleek concave rear windscreen - a signature Citroën design.

The car's cabin is accessed by rear coach doors and reveals a spacious, comfortable and futuristic cabin. Completing the car's bespoke styling, the interior detailing and upholstery selections were provided by Patrick Grant, the Creative Director of prestigious Savile Row tailors, E.Tautz, who commented: "Savile Row is all about balance and Tautz's simple military inspired interior is the perfect counterpoint to the Gallic flair of the exterior."

The dynamic performance and environmental responsibility were also key requirements for the project. The Citroën GQ Concept is powered by a plug-in Hybrid with a 1,598cc, 4-cylinder direct injection petrol engine offering a sporty 0-60mph time of just 4.5seconds, an electronically limited top speed of 155mph and CO2 emissions of just 80g/km.

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Jeep Grand Cherokee UK Version, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jeep Grand Cherokee UK Version, 2011

The new Jeep Grand Cherokee has been designed on a new platform to deliver premium on-road performance while maintaining the Jeep brand's legendary four-wheel drive, torque-on-demand two-speed transfer case for extraordinary off-road capability and durability.

The new vehicle offers significantly lowered emissions and improved fuel economy (up to 39 mpg) with its new turbocharged 3-litre V6 CRD engine, together with a world-class interior providing luxury, comfort and enhanced safety. Despite its rugged, trail-tested off-road capabilities, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee is a sophisticated, luxury SUV that can easily be driven on an everyday basis by anyone.
In the UK, new Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in two versions, Limited and Overland, both of which are powered by an all-new 237bhp 3-litre V6 turbodiesel.

The Exterior Design and Dimensions
The all-new Grand Cherokee features a muscular and athletic new look with a high waist line and a steeply raked windscreen. A low drag coefficient illustrates the efficient aerodynamic shape of the vehicle.

The contemporary design language is nevertheless unmistakably Jeep, and is instantly recognisable thanks to the classic trapezoidal wheel arches together with the familiar Jeep seven-slot grille.
In terms of dimensions, although the car is approximately 7cm wider and 7cm longer than the model it replaces, the wheelbase has been stretched by over 13cm to give extra boot space, and more specifically, extra rear leg-room.

With regard to the cargo area, new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers up to 782 litres of space with all the seats in place - 11% more than the previous model; and the tailgate is power operated on the Overland version. Notwithstanding the amount of luggage space available, a full size spare wheel is carried.

The new Jeep also features short front and rear overhangs for much improved approach, departure and breakover angles and consequent superior off-road capability. The front spoiler is removable for when the terrain gets really tough, giving an extra four degrees of approach angle.

The Interior Design
A world-class interior has been achieved thanks to fine materials and elegant appointments, while maintaining a focused attention to detail with high quality interior fit and finish throughout.

Premium materials such as real wood, leather, chrome accents, LED lighting, and premium seating deliver a strong impression of refinement and luxury - expressive design, quality of materials; the precise fit of all panels… these elements also contribute to enhanced noise isolation.

New, soft-touch materials are used at key 'touch points' throughout; including doors, consoles and armrests.
The quality of the seat upholstery is another important feature of the world-class interior. Both front seats are heated and ventilated with eight-way power assistance and four-way lumbar adjustment, with a memory system on the driver's side. In fact, the front seats feature an all-new structure with enhanced bolster contours for improved comfort. The moulded shape of the upper seat shoulder area adds to the look and feel of the seating, while the 12-degrees reclining rear seats, (60/40 split folding), together with the longer platform, enhance comfort for rear passengers who have over 100mm of additional rear legroom.

The Interior Equipment
Alpine Premium Sound System
The standard equipment Alpine Premium Audio System creates a full, realistic sound experience using a high-powered 12-channel, 506-watt amplifier powering nine speakers and a subwoofer. Optimally placed throughout Jeep Grand Cherokee's cabin, this surround-sound speaker system delivers an unparalleled aural experience. This premium audio system allows everyone onboard to hear music precisely as the artist intended it.

Media Centre
The Media Centre features an AM/FM radio, CD/DVD player, satellite navigation system (standard on Overland) that's controlled via a 6.5-inch touch-screen, and a 30GB hard drive. Owners can store up to 6700 tracks on the hard drive and upload music and photos through the USB port or from a CD/DVD. The system includes a single-disc CD player, and can also play DVDs when the vehicle is stationary and the transmission is in Park. Uconnect Bluetooth® with voice commands means that the sound system, sat nav and mobile phones can be operated hands-free.

iPod Interface
With the iPod Control, most iPod-compatible devices can be connected directly to the vehicle's audio system using the iPod control cable. The iPod can then be operated through the Media Centre sound system or via the steering wheel-mounted controls. While connected, the system even charges the iPod.

Keyless Enter-N-Go
As long as the vehicle's ignition keys are somewhere on the driver's person (maybe in a pocket or a bag) the vehicle picks up signals from the transponder and unlocks it, when the driver touches the door handle. It also activates the push-button starter: the driver just presses the brake pedal and pushes the button to start.

The vehicle's equipment can also be activated without starting the engine. Without a foot on the brake, the driver pushes the button once; pushes twice to turn on the heating/air conditioning and instrumentation; or three times to turn it off again.

CommandView panoramic sunroof (standard on Overland)
The front roof panel opens rearward, providing additional light and fresh air to front seat passengers. This front glass panel features an express one-touch open and close operation. The rear glass panel, which is fixed, provides extra light and visibility for rear seat passengers. A standard one-touch power sun-shade may be extended to cover the tinted glass panels when closed.

Platform
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is the very first vehicle in the market to be built on this brand new platform. The structure was co-developed with Mercedes-Benz and will be used in next generation Mercedes vehicles. With an increase of 146% in overall torsional stiffness, it is now much stronger and more durable than before. As a result, noise, vibration and harshness levels have been drastically improved, giving much better on-road and off-road ride quality. The new platform engineering brings improvements in the following key areas:

•     Manoeuvrability
•     Overall agility
•     Cornering ability
•     Steering precision

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee tips the scale at 2,272kg, which is 38kg less than the outgoing model and represents a considerable achievement when the increase in dimensions is taken into account.
Outstanding touring attributes are another Jeep Grand Cherokee forte. The maximum towing capacity with a braked trailer is a class-topping 3,500kg, which includes an anti-sway damping system featuring a neutral position for flat towing.

Legendary 4x4 Capability
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers the new Quadra-Lift air suspension system, (standard equipment on Overland versions). 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 legendary 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 entry/exit and roof rack loading. NRH and Park mode are driver-selectable, giving the driver control over vehicle ride height
•     Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle 0.6 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. It operates automatically, or may be controlled manually via console controls. Quadra-Lift enhances the ride quality and takes the Jeep Grand Cherokee another leap forward. It's a first-class closed system with a stored air reservoir for a faster response and no lift-time deterioration.

Driver benefits are numerou:

•     Ease of entry/exit for passengers
•     Easier cargo loading and unloading
•     Improved off-road capability by increasing ground clearance, approach, departure and breakover angles
•     Improved on-road ride comfort
•     Improved fuel economy at motorway speeds - automatically lowering vehicle height to reduce aerodynamic drag

In addition to the Quadra-Lift air suspension system, the all-new Selec-Terrain traction control system (standard equipment on both Limited and Overland), lets customers choose the appropriate 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).

Selec-Terrain, coupled with the all-new Quadra-Lift air suspension system, offers drivers an adjustable suspension span that delivers world-class capability. The system's control dial allows the driver to choose from five driving conditions in order to achieve the best all-terrain driving experience.

•     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 complement the vehicle's off-road capability. The new multilink rear suspension features lower control arms and camber/tension links that individually control cornering, bump and braking forces. This is regarded as the optimum set-up for ride comfort and handling stability. The compact design of the system also allows the spare tyre to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath. Anti-roll bars are features on both axles.

Go Anywhere 4x4 Systems
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee employs a 4x4 system called Quadra-Trac II® which features a two-speed transfer box with low ratio gears and an electronically controlled clutch that allows variable torque distribution.

Quadra-Trac II's two-speed transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors in order to determine tyre 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 maximises traction before slippage occurs. When tyre slippage is detected, as much as 100 percent of available torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction. Selec-Terrain is standard with Quadra-Trac II.

The drivetrain is further enhanced with sophisticated stability, hill assist and hill descent control systems featuring Brake Traction Control Systems on both axles (BTCS). BTCS uses the brakes to act on any wheel that is slipping, and allows additional torque transfer to those wheels with traction.

In addition, Hill Descent Control allows smooth and controlled descent on rough or slippery terrain without the driver having to touch the brake pedal. It applies the brakes to each wheel individually to slow the vehicle down and maintain driver control on steep slopes.

Meanwhile Hill Start Assist helps drivers make a hill start by keeping the brakes on for a short period of time after a driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal. If the throttle is applied when the driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal, the brakes are released.

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