1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee...Continued

The 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee is offered with an optional all-new 4.7-liter V-8 PowerTech engine that offers more horsepower, increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions. A substantially refined 4.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine is standard, while a turbo diesel is offered in Europe.

The 5.9 is gone for the time being, but may be revived if demand indicates. The 4.7 should handle all but the most over-burdened trailer tower.

Chrysler's Mack Avenue Engine facility has undergone a three-year, $930 million metamorphosis that left the ceiling and the structural steel as the only original parts. The 4.7-liter engine produced there has its first application in the 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The all-new, electronically-controlled transmission features unique characteristics such as a 3.00:1 first gear that gives the driver better initial acceleration. An alternate second gear ratio gives the driver five forward ratios for improved performance while maintaining optimum fuel economy.

A completely new concept in four-wheel drive systems developed by the ASHA Corporation marks the first use in any sport-utility vehicle of the new Quadra-Trac II™ transfer case that incorporates a progressive, speed-sensing torque -transfer coupling. The system also marks the first industry use of Vari-Lok axles that have a progressive, speed-sensing torque-transfer differential in both the front and rear axles.

Without any driver involvement, the Quadra-Drive system keeps the vehicle moving even if only one wheel has minimal traction -- a key customer benefit under all driving conditions. These have been successfully proven in Indy cars and Rally cars, and are lighter, more positive and less expensive than preceding systems.

The signature Jeep grille is less angular and more raked, with a subtle vee treatment to the grille slots. The steeply raked windshield, arc of the roof and stretched trapezoidal wheel arches give the vehicle an athletic stance.