Monday, February 18, 2013

Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 Test


A good dancer must have express themselves on any terrain, even with a partner. It is a parallel I dare do with this new Grand Cherokee, equally at home on pavement and off-piste, including the ice!

For 70 years, Jeep has provided a gift: a new Grand Cherokee. But this time, the cake is iced airs log because we went to discover Arvidsjaur above the Arctic Circle. A destination for the least unexpected, but it is the price that the Fiat group (now owns Jeep) can perform cold tests quietly on future models. The term "cold" is not usurped, as the thermometer can display up to -40 ° C and from you to me, this is not a time to be a photographer outside! Yes, but try this new Grand Cherokee deserves. And Indian friend, not the kind of chilly, does not seem to fear the biting cold. Neither critics elsewhere (rare) journalists who dared to move toward him.
It is true that the new Jeep puts the odds on his side. Here, "new" is not overused because everything has been completely redesigned, design (interior and exterior) to the embedded technology. Regarding style, the Grand Cherokee remains as large (4.82m long) but it is refined, and even improves aerodynamics. Ultimately it is not only pleasing to the eye, but also the guarantee of saving some fuel. The front immediately identifiable as belonging to the Jeep world is adorned with an imposing chrome grille bars 7 vertical beautifully. These fancies, full of personality, should soon find on other models of the brand, starting with the next Compass. The back also gives in elegance, with a steeply raked tailgate, like a Range Rover. No offense to the British 4x4, 4x4 pioneer but remains well luxury Grand Cherokee, born in the sixties as the Wagoner. This historical parenthesis being made back to our fourth Grand Cherokee name.

Leader
Over time, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a leader of the movement of luxury 4x4 therefore, was enhanced at all levels. In the style we have seen, but also at the level of ground connections. Ultimate witness failed marriage between Daimler and Chrysler; the Grand Cherokee is based on the chassis of the future Mercedes ML. The old version was not bad, far from it even, but this latest generation rose significantly by getting rid of its solid rear axle in favor of a modern multi-link rear suspension. Handling wins but also the comfort, despite riding on our test model real "tons" huge wheels 255/50 R20. And know that Grand Cherokee can do better by adopting a Quadra-Lift air suspension, offering up to 270 mm of amplitude! Standard on the V8 version 5.7, it will be available with the V6 premium finish Overland. Overland that, you know, since it is the insurance benefit in Jeep interior full options, in the U.S.
Make a comprehensive list of standard equipment would be to make a endless inventory, but know that almost everything is on board, leather seats electric color touch screen GPS (with advanced system "media center"), and even power adjustable pedals. A real tipi 4 stars! In addition to this orgy of luxury, other surprises abound on board. Despite a substantial electronics, intuitive controls fall to hand, indicating that the interface is (finally) well thought out. But besides roominess revised upwards and chest size cargo (from 782 to 1554 liters), the best news is to the credit of the finish, which makes a leap forward. Now, Jeep does rhyme with more cheaply! New, there is also the engine room with the presence of a novel Pentastar V6 3.6 24v developing 286 hp at 6350 r / min, with variable valve timing. A noble modern engine test by promises, according to Jeep, average consumption limited to only 11.4 L/100 km (CO2 emissions 265g/km of). Significant reductions, but not at the expense of drivability, up!
The delights of slips
Obviously, judging the behavior of a 4x4 road on a smooth surface like a mirror, where it is difficult to stand, is not easy! Thankfully, the Pirelli Scorpion tandem with permanent AWD Quadra-Trac 2 wonders. Of course, driving on eggs and therefore the weight of the machine encourages vigilance, but the Grand Cherokee has another secret weapon: Selec-Terrain. It is a wheel similar to Land Rover's Terrain Response, to select among five modes electronically most favorable conditions adhesions.

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Popular Jeep parts and accessories easy to find, easy to buy

Jeep Accessories

Jeeps have been part of Americana since the first Jeep vehicle leaves the assembly line in America. Jeeps are tough vehicles, but occasionally they need to be repaired or have parts and accessories to meet the growing demands of off-road driving. Whether for aesthetic reasons or to repair the most popular Jeep parts and accessories are easier and faster than in recent decades. No longer do you have to go to break or fry with tender is part Jeep dealers. The Internet allows you to choose the most popular pieces and Jeep accessories you can imagine and have them delivered to your door.
With the proper use of keywords, you can find Jeep parts and accessories available online without having to talk to the auto parts that have committed no idea what a Jeep is, or the design of the framework you need Jeep for your brand and model. Bumper Jeep Dodge, you can find what you need with the click of a mouse and be able to buy popular Jeep parts and accessories without leaving the comfort of your home. You can expect your new lift kit or skid plate and have them delivered to your door.
Not only are these high-end pieces, they are the most popular Jeep parts and accessories manufacturers in the world. Jeep brand name manufacturers of products such as Bestop, Warrior, and Rugged Ridge are available to meet your Jeep parts and accessories needs popular with better service and Jeep parts that are cheaper than you will find in a store auto parts for brick and mortar. Some online sites even offer free delivery and reduce costs for multiple orders. You can be sure of quality and service when you buy Jeep parts and accessories popular these popular manufacturers and their affiliates online.
Whether you are looking for air filters and air systems or want to modify your Jeep with stainless steel accessories, the possibilities are endless, as there are a plethora of popular Jeep parts and accessories available from online retailers. You can browse these sites and find the component of the winch or a body that will make your Jeep unique or you can find the parts you need to make your Jeep run better and faster than ever before.
If you own a Jeep you know that Jeep owners are a special breed, who need high quality parts and accessories that will not only bring out the individuality of the Jeep, but also reflect the owner's personality . Whether you live in a small town or a big city you cannot beat purchase Jeep parts and accessories popular online instead of going to brick and mortar auto parts store and take a chance to be overloaded and under served. So, bring your Jeep back to life and at the same time, look great and works wonderfully and shop for your Jeep parts and accessories popular online to save time and money.

Sunday, February 10, 2013

Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo CRD 2008: Test Drive


Living in the city and owning a Jeep may seem paradoxical. And the phenomenon of life begins to show the hype: it seems that those who spend their weekends surfing, climbing, biking and similar activities live in neighborhoods where congestion and pollution are high. At least that's what the manufacturers want us to believe.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The two latest additions to Jeep, the Compass and Patriot were created for the residents of the city who want to look cool in a vehicle rugged appearance. These are really not to go off-road Jeep and only a fully equipped Patriot Trail Rated badge of merit, but they are still reasonably skilled. The country people could instead turn to a Wrangler or Liberty.
The Grand Cherokee, I believe, covers both types. It offers a choice of five engines with V8 420 horsepower SRT8 model, but one of them is particularly interesting since it is rarely found in a luxury SUV: the turbo diesel engine.
Nice power delivery
The CRD V6 3-liter 24-valve develops just 215 horsepower, but a muscular torque of 376 lb-ft of 1 600 to 2 800 r / min. The engine's redline is a sleepy 4500 rev / min, but this is normal for a diesel. At 100 km / h, the V6 runs at 2200 rpm.
The sprint from 0 to 100 km / h takes 8.4 seconds and the quarter mile in 16.1 seconds is added to 137 km / h. Well, it is obviously slower than the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, but still CRD moves quickly enough. Those who earn trailers and boats will be happy to know that with all towing, diesel Grand Cherokee can tow up to 3357 pounds or 7400 pounds.
The main reason we choose a CRD is to save at the pump, and our average of 12.4 L/100 km is not so bad. Compared with gasoline engines offered in the Grand Cherokee, we see a greater fuel economy in the city than on the highway. If you live in the city and if you want a Jeep like this, the turbo would be your logical choice.

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

2011 Jeep Patriot North 4WD Road Test

Jeep Patriot 2011

When the Chrysler Group announced a new product offensive in 2011, he was not kidding. Approximately two-thirds of its range has undergone a facelift and redesign or changes in equipment, and two new models were introduced.
Changes in the Patriot are minor, particularly when compared to recarrossage its twin, the Compass. Still, we do not fix what is not broken, and for its aesthetics, the Patriot has been blessed since its launch with classical lines of the Jeep brand, keeping it attractive for many years to come.

The visual touches include front bumper and rear bumpers; trim the bottom of doors and new alloy wheels. The fog lights have been repositioned, and the four-wheel drive models, the ride height have been increased.

We would like the braking system offers a better feeling in the foot. The Patriot stops in reasonable distances or brakes competition just seem more effective.

Under the hood, the 4-cylinder 2.4-liter remains faithful to the station, generating 172 horsepower and 165 pound-feet. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, while a continuously variable automatic (or CVT) is optional. Against by our test truck, includes transmission with a low range electronic contained in all terrain Freedom Drive II, the only way to earn a badge "Trail Rated" on the Patriot.

While the engine has no problem motivating some 1,500 pounds of Jeep agriculturelle its sound at low revs gives us the impression that it will not work. The revving soundtrack improves, however, and the available power is nice, but the 2.4-liter is noisy when accelerating at full throttle. 0-100 km / h take more or less 10 seconds and 100 km / h on the highway, the engine jumps to 2600 rev / min, higher than what was expected.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Jeep Wrangler CRD Sahara


We cannot think of a 4x4 without immediately having the image of the Jeep Wrangler and the head is the last descendant of this icon. An icon now available to us with a diesel engine.

To successfully sell a car on our continent, it needs a diesel engine. This is what makes the Jeep Wrangler has not been aired more than that during its 20 years of existence here. Renault was well endowed CJ7 a diesel, but the Renault 18 2.1D had not shown because of its power of only 61 horses...
So when Jeep has launched the third generation Wrangler, the JK, a diesel engine has been provided. Of course, the 2.8 CRD who gets stuck: that which powers have also the Cherokee. It now aligns the sum of 177 horsepower and especially torque of 40.8 kgm at 2000 rpm / min. casually; they are better numbers than previous proposed Wrangler 4.0 petrol!
To relay all this to the wheels, Jeep lets you choose between the manual transmission on the basic Sport version and the automatic gearbox on the most complete version of the Sahara. In both cases, Jeep has put the dishes in the large: the manual transmission has 6 automatic reports and 5, no less! We, of course, we took an automatic gearbox: it is ideal on a 4x4 crossing.

Before boarding, let's look. What can I say, except that the beast is beautiful? Round headlights, wings wide, large 17-inch wheels, right angles, small red lights in the rear grille and 7 vertical slots: everything is there, do not throw anything! Moreover, the impulses of sympathy for this Jeep abound, even in Paris, where many passers we have little signs of admiration! The Sahara has the Top in Top; that is to say, under the hard top is also a tarpaulin. It's cheese and dessert!
The interior is also very nice to share the atmosphere it provides. The vision of the long hood through the small windscreen and curved just enough vertical puts you immediately in the mood! We are delighted to find a steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver seat, a center armrest concealing a deep storage compartment, and a sound system worthy of the name and direct reach of the driver. Finally, do not make illusion. We always seek to control electric mirrors (and for good reason ...). The quality of plastics is typically U.S. (read ... very cheap), the pockets are really small, and the trunk is more than limited. Its width is correct, but its depth is very low and its height is barred because of the presence of the tarpaulin Top in Top.

The boot is also typically U.S. You must have your foot on the brake pedal, and if you do not put your seat belt chime to sound very typical active. The sound of the diesel engine is not too annoying, even when cold. Nothing to do with such an old 2.5TD original VM or a Tdi Land Rover. This volume will continue in the proper use. Without saying that the Wrangler CRD is silent, we must admit that we were expecting worse...
Very quickly, a quality Jeep Wrangler 2.8 CRD we jump to the eye: the torque of the engine. In all regimes, 4x4 leaves with force. And even with a lot of force, so it surprised many motorists to start his own driver! And yet, the automatic transmission does not help things too much. Reports are long, the torque converter is quite greedy and does not have a lock on the higher gears (lock-up function). Otherwise, the Jeep was a real little GTI. In the current state, the Wrangler 2.8 CRD Auto is better than defense and we were really surprised about that.

The good news is that it is quite possible to enjoy this road dynamism. The rigid axles are certainly the disadvantage of increasing the unsprung masses (penalizing handling) and decrease comfort, but they allow four wheels work permanently flat. On the road, the Wrangler evolves with its own rear-wheel drive and is therefore not the clumsy side 4x4 AWD permanent. Finally, with his short frame, it turns terribly handy. In case of excessive optimism, ESP before. But it is almost never occurred despite the pace of our mount...
The Jeep Wrangler is not a vehicle that you buy just to go from point A to point B. Buy it for its look or go to trudge with the two uses are perfectly compatible. So we went to check the capacity of crossing JK. Have in the past; we were a little disappointed with the off-road capabilities of the Wrangler TJ and WJ series, which forced them to go through the kits to get results up to the reputation of the brand.

As well tell you right now, the Wrangler JK us amazed. Because we did not really put all the chances on our side. Compared to version Rubicon, Sahara has a smaller reduction but also does not have the sway bars disconnected or locking differentials: what remain immobilized in the first bridge crossing, especially since the field day is fat and we are shod with road tires.
Our mount has good day’s travels, even without the sway bars disconnected. More importantly, the entire range Jeep Wrangler has a weapon: its traction BLD which to date include reference to us. Even in a progression centimeter by centimeter, sometimes to intervene and thus to replace a differential lock, locking the wheel in difficulty without choking the engine, where others require antipatinages to force a passage for power action. Of great art, which allowed us to go to places really unexpected. Torque diesel and automatic transmission do the rest: this is a client choice crossing! For the raid, it will however mention the JK in its short chassis variant imperative for him to prefer the version Unlimited. Simply for reasons of capacity. It has been said, the trunk is more than limited but more importantly, the tank capacity (66 liters only) severely limit the autonomy.
Rate side, the Jeep Wrangler Sahara is quite well placed. Because the competing models are not better, on the contrary. They are not many of the rest: one 4x4 chassis short crossing, we can cite the Land Rover Defender, another icon stock but much less versatile, and limit the Nissan Patrol, capable of everything, but with much less sex appeal. On occasion ... the offer is currently non-existent: he must believe that nobody wants to sell his ... It includes owners!
It has the look and the level of equipment that is expected of it. But the Jeep Wrangler 2.8 CRD Sahara is distinguished by the driving pleasure it offers on its road and off-road capabilities. The legend of the Jeep back through the front door! .

Friday, January 25, 2013

More info on the Jeep Grand Cherokee electric


AMP Electric Vehicles Company has addressed the transformation of the electric car Jeep Grand Cherokee. Following the presentation at NAIAS 2012 SUV converted, the company gives us some additional information.

It is a real underlying trend in the United States have started in California and gradually spreading throughout the continent. Wishing to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing the pleasures of a car attractive, many clients choose to convert their horses to electricity.
Like many companies, AMP Electric Vehicles is engulfed in the gap by proposing the conversion, among others, large SUV. After the Mercedes ML, it is the turn of the Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 swaps her for an electrical system.
Thus, the engine and transmission give up their seats to battery packs Lithium-ion Phosphate providing a total capacity of 37.6 kWh. This energy is then transmitted to two electric motors with a total output of 152 kW (206 hp) on the rear axle. This facility allows announcing a range between 130 and 160 km and a 0 to 100 km / h takes less than 10 seconds.
Including a Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 $ 27,490 sold, prices start at $ 57,400 before state aid of up to $ 7,500. If the company is already taking orders, the first deliveries will not take place until the fall of 2012.

Monday, January 21, 2013

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Wrangler Limited Edition and Moab



To make the new Jeep on the stand was devised and limited special series. The first of these concerns the Grand Cherokee SRT is proposed here in a limited series "Limited Edition". Available exclusively in glossy white, this series takes a honeycomb grille gloss black, a color that can be found everywhere on the car that plays on contrasts black and white. The rims are 20'' hub cap and chrome inserts.
Once inside, there is a leather steering wheel (and heating) and select buttons reports, sports seats in nappa leather, carbon inserts and leather on the dashboard and doors against and aluminum pedals . The engine is the 6.4 l HEMI V8 with cylinder deactivation, it produces 468 hp and 624 Nm of torque to the road go through a 5-speed automatic. 0 to 100km / h is a formality before 5s, on the top speed; it reaches 257 km / h. The suspension is adaptive and electronics offers 5 modes settings to concoct the perfect car. Brembo braking is signed, the equipment is meanwhile more than full (panoramic sunroof, Uconnect GPS, Harman Kardon audio system 825 w and 19 HP, adaptive cruise control and various safety devices) for a vehicle that will be sold in early 2013.

Another special series will be named Wrangler Moab region of Utah that welcomes all 4x4 enthusiasts. Based on version Sahara, this series will be available in 2.8 liter turbo 200hp and 460 Nm two or four doors in the first quarter of 2013. It differs from other Wrangler with its new cover, a body-color hard top, tinted windows and wings Black. 17'' rims are taken from the version Rubicon while steps have been introduced. The interior is exclusively black while Moab will be offered in five different colors. The AWD system and Command-Trac rear differential autobloaquant Trac-Lok guarantee successful crossings more difficult.

Jeep will also take its stand on the S version of the same Limited Cherokee and Jeep Compass Black Edition still always valiant.