Mopar Lift For Jeep KK Cherokee Now Available

Locally produced for Jeep in Australia owners of the latest Jeep Cherokee KK models can now fit genuine Mopar 50mm Lift Suspension Packs.

The kit includes heavy duty coil springs, front struts and rear shockers and will give the Cherokee that extra clearance and load carrying ability it really does need. Standard clearance on the Cherokee is poor and vulnerable to damage in 4WD terrain so will be most welcomed by Cherokee owners. The kits are now available from your local Jeep dealer and your warranty will not be effected if supplied and fitted by a Jeep dealer.

Bull Bars Here To Stay! Government Withdraws Bull Bar Ban Proposal

A Victory For Common Sense and the voice of the 'silent majority'. Our Four Wheel Drivers Campaign has been a  huge success in forcing the Government to abandon its planned compliance with European regulations. The Four Wheel Drive community can be proud of its effective campaign proving that the voice of the people can be heard, 'We Drive 4WD's And We Vote'.

The following statement was posted on the Four Wheel Drive Victoria website today stating that the federal Government has withdrawn its proposed Bull Bar Ban.

'The 4WD Council have been advised that the RIS has been withdrawn on the grounds that the regulation is not appropriate for Australian Conditions.
This is a significant win for the 4WD Industry and vehicle owners
If the recommendations of the RIS had been adopted into Regulation, they would have seriously impacted the fitment of ‘fit for purpose’ Bullbars on Australian vehicles, this spells the end of Government Regulations (GTR 09) in Australia and whilst we still may have some issues within some States, causing problems for the Industry and Users in the future, it would be unlikely that any State Minister would table GTR09 for adoption in their State
Thank you for your support
Grahame McCraw - Convenor
AUSTRALIAN 4WD INDUSTRY COUNCIL'
http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/ck/releases/2011/February/CK006_2011.htm

Rubicon Diesel Turbo JK Wrangler... Would You Buy It If Jeep Built It?

Lots of people say they want one of these. A JK Wrangler Rubicon with the 2.8L Turbo Diesel; it would be an awsome vehicle in four wheel drive terrain, especially when the going gets tough. We think with its front and rear diff locks, electric sway bar disconnects, Dana 44 Front and Rear Diffs and 4.1;1 ratios combined with the massive torque of the Jeep CRD Diesel Turbo engine it would be a real sales winner. It would also be a great outback touring vehicle for those long distances between fill ups.

Everyone knows the petrol powered Rubicon is an awsome vehicle off road but it is let down by its not so good fuel consumption and small fuel tank range.
The people at Jeep Australia seem to be ignorant to the demand for this version of the Wrangler so, complete our survey and lets see if we can put some pressure on Jeep Australia to plead our case to build the ultimate Wrangler.

70 Years of Jeep - WW2 Australian Jeeps In Action - New Guinea

In this the 70th Year of the Jeep we pay tribute to the work the little Jeep achieved with the Australian and Allied  Troops in the Second World War. Its worth taking the time to visit the Australian War Memorial Website and explore the many articles and photos in the archives, just use the search filter and insert Jeep Photo; you will find a huge collection of photos of the Jeep in action.
Check it out at Australian War Memorial

Aitape, New Guinea. 2 March 1945. Many rivers have to be forded by jeeps in the Aitape area. Private Don Garnar of Broken Hill, NSW, uses his ingenuity to wash a pair of pants from the jeep as it fords the river. Driving the jeep is Driver Alan Wilkie of Mildura, Vic.

Jeep Club Profile - ACT Jeep Traction

ACT JeepTrAction is based in Canberra ACT and started life as a way of enjoying Jeep ownership between a few local jeep owners.  There was no elected officials or committees, no AGMs, no treasurers etc. This was just a group of like-minded individuals whose sole interest was using their Jeeps in the company of others.

Over a short period of time interest had grown and the idea of forming a club was explored. Today, ACT JeepTrAction is a fully functioning non-profit organisation. Its structure allows the club to remain flexible and to ensure we are always working in our members' best interests.

The Club is mainly aimed at the beginner (newbie) up to intermediate level. We cater for the needs of those new to Jeep or 4-Wheel Drive ownership by helping with access to professional advice, tuition and support.
We are are a small club and as a result members are encouraged to contribute to the running of the club. The club's resources are available to all members to assist them in the organisation of events, whether social or off-road based.
We promote a safe and responsible attitude to off-road driving and exert no pressure on our members to tackle obstacles they do not feel comfortable with. Help and advice is available at every step and the key to the concept is the informal atmosphere.
We also arrange social events, proving that the club isn't just about the vehicles, it's about the people as well. Indeed, ACT JeepTrAction is a community in its own right. Check them out at ACT Jeep Traction

2011 Grand Cherokee Diesel To Debut at Geneva Motor Show

To be shown at the Geneva Motor Show, the all-new Jeep® Grand Cherokee will debut a new, optional 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine available for Europe and Australian markets. The new engine is more powerful, more fuel efficient and produces lower emissions than its predecessor.

Built by VM Motori and developed together with Fiat Powertrain, a company of Fiat S.p.a., the new 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine produces maximum horsepower of 177 kW (241 hp DIN) at 4,000 rpm and torque of 550 N•m (406 lb-ft) at 1,800-2,800 rpm. This translates to 10 percent more power and eight percent more torque than the engine it replaces.
Even with its improved performance, fuel economy for the new 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine is 8.3 L/100km on the combined cycle, an improvement of 17 percent over the prior diesel engine. CO2 emissions (combined cycle) are also reduced by 17 percent, now at 218 g/km.
The V-6 turbo diesel engine is fitted with new-generation, 1,800-bar injectors with new MultiJet II technology, developed and patented by Fiat Powertrain and which made its debut in 2009 on the 1.3-liter diesel engine equipped on the Punto Evo.
VM Motori have supplied Deisel engines to Jeep for many years and are currently used in 4 cylinder form in Cherokee, Wrangler and Chrysler Grand Voyager. The new Diesel Grand Cherokee variants are due in Australia mid year.

IMPORTANT 4WD NEWS National Code of Practice for 4WD Mods Released

The Federal Government has released the The National Code of Practice for Light Vehicle Construction and Modification.
Basically this means 4WD's with lifts up to 50mm including tyre size increases must not exceed 50mm in total and are not subject to engineer certification. Lifts exceeding 50mm do need certification and testing.
Interesting that NSW did not proceed with their propsed VSI50 regulations but the Federal Government has snuck in with their own changes that almost mirror the NSW's proposal.
It has been released for adoption by the various State Transport authorities. You can reference the document at: 
http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/vehicle_regulation/bulletin/vsb_ncop.aspx  


Note: to include the Preface / Introduction in your reading of relevant sections. We draw your attention to references to modifying vehicles equipped with ESC (intro para 3.16/LS para 2.6). It is clear that each State Transport jurisdiction will apply the NCOP in conjunction with local interpretations, so check with your State Authority for definitive requirements.  

IMPACT
"Vehicles whose ride height is raised by more than 50mm must meet the requirements specified in Codes LS7 and LS8 and undergo a lane-change manoeuvre test in accordance with ISO 3888-1 Passenger Cars – Test Track for a Severe Lane-Change Manoeuvre – Part 1: Double Lane-Change to ensure its stability has not been compromised. The test procedures and requirements for the lane change test are detailed in Section LT Test Procedures Code LT4."
"Raising the height of the vehicle may be performed without certification providing the overall increase in vehicle height is not more than 50mm. This may be achieved as a single modification such as the installation of a 50mm lift kit, or by a combination of smaller lifts as described below: the fitting of body blocks or lift kits (50mm maximum if no other modifications resulting in a change of vehicle height are performed); 

• suspension modification, (50mm maximum if no other modifications resulting in a change of vehicle height are performed); 
• changes to tyre size (maximum change in tyre size diameter of 50mm);
• or a combination of the above that results in a change of vehicle height not exceeding 50mm."

Bull Bar Ban - Federal Government Reacts to Email Onslaught!

Due to massive pressure from the Four Wheel Drive Community and various media outlets the Federal Government has been forced to make a statement regarding the proposed legislation.

One of the most popular 4WD magazines in the country Australian 4WD action has seen over 20,000 emails sent to the Minister in just 2 weeks of the campaign, causing their server to crash under the pressure and the Government Department divert the emails as their system was overloaded. The magazine stated that " This is a great start and we are seeing signs that 4WDers are being taken seriously and our efforts are working. We can’t stop now. If the government thinks that 4WDers have sent a lot of emails already, they haven’t seen what we can do when we unite and really turn the pressure up. We need to keep sending emails to the Minister. We need to inform everyone we know and get as many people to send an email to the Minister, Anthony Albanese to show the government that we do not accept their proposal. If you know somebody who hasn’t sent their email in yet, please encourage them now! It will make a difference. Imagine what the government will think when we open the flood gates and quadruple this number. That means we need everyone sending this email now!"
Check out the full story at http://takeaction.4wdaction.com.au/

70 Years of Jeep - WW2 Australian Jeeps In Action

Its 70 Years since the first Jeep vehicles were produced. Its worth looking back at some of the amazing duties that the little Jeep vehicles performed during the Second World War. Its worth taking the time to visit the Australian War Memorial Website and explore the many articles and photos in the archives, just use the search filter and insert Jeep Photo; you will find a huge collection of photos of the Jeep in action.
Check it out at Australian War Memorial

SUAIN PLANTATION, NEW GUINEA. 1944-12-10. A JEEP CARRYING RAAF PERSONNEL MAKES USE OF THE HARD SOIL DURING LOW TIDE TO TRANSPORT URGENT SUPPLIES TO SUAIN PLANTATION FROM BABIANG.

National 4x4 Show - Brisbane 8th - 10th April 2011

Queensland’s biggest 4x4 & outdoors show returns to the RNA Showgrounds from 8 – 10 April 2011.

Co-located again with the Brisbane Tinnie & Tackle Show, this event will be a one stop shop for those who love everything about 4wds, the outdoors, fishing and boating. Check It Out Here

Bull Bars Save Lives In Australia

Recent research has shown that at least 5.5% of road crashes are caused by impact with an animal or swerving to avoid an animal on public roads. In just one year alone (2007) the NRMA Insurance Company in NSW had over 9000 claims that were caused by impact with an animal, at a total cost to the NSW community of over 70 Million dollars.

“Kangaroos will often look for food and water near busy roads or even in urban areas”. 

Reported in the Australian Automotive Accessories Association discussion paper the article also says 'The Australian landscape and our broad expanse of rural roads often expose road users to encounters with animals, with the majority of serious collisions occurring in regional, rural and outer urban areas.  The condition of many regional roads and our road design which includes verges and drainage ditches running alongside major roads increases the risk of animal strike, particularly in drought conditions.

Research focus on animal-related road crashes in Australia from the Rural and Remote Road Safety Study in North Queensland (for serious casualties resulting from direct impact with an animal or swerving to avoid an animal on public roads) found that animal collisions accounted for 5.5% of all eligible on-road serious casualties in the study.  Kangaroos and wallabies were the predominant species involved in these crashes (44.8%).  Night-time travel was found to be a significant risk factor when comparing animal-related crashes to other serious injury crashes in the study. Data matching to official Government records found underreporting of animal-related crashes to be an issue of concern.'
This information is published in the Australian Automotive Accessories Association (AAAA)  Position Paper
Read more here

BULL BARS UNDER THREAT - SURVEY ENDS SOON

SURVEY ENDS SOON HAVE YOUR SAY - BULL BARS UNDER THREAT

The Federal Government is right now, considering regulations which will significantly affect the type of Bull Bars that can be fitted to motor vehicles. The 4WD Industry Council firmly believes that the Bullbar is an important safety product for motor vehicle and passenger safety, particularly in Australia’s regional and rural areas.

In preparing our submission to the Federal Government the 4WD Industry Council is collecting information on animal strike incidents, many of which are not reported, because they do not involve an insurance claim.

Please take a few minutes to click on the survey link below and tell us about your experiences in your 4WD, Light Commercial or Passenger Vehicle.

If you are unable to complete the survey in a single session, use the save bar (top) and complete the survey before the end February 2011.

Thank you for contributing to this significant issue for regional and rural motorists.

Australian 4WD Industry Council

TAKE THE SURVEY HERE

Jeep Fans On Facebook Pass 1 Million Likes

Jeep fans on social website Facebook have just broken through 1 million fans liking the Facebook page. Have you liked Jeep on Facebook yet? http://www.facebook.com/jeep

Wandin - Victorian 4WD Show On This Weekend

The Victorian 4WD show is on this coming Sunday and attracts a large number of visitors and provides a great opportunity to look and learn about the latest accessories, motor vehicles, campers and modifications available to 4WDrivers. Each year the Show expands with new types of exhibitors.

There is also a large contingent of local 4WD Clubs that are there to answer any questions you may have about joining a club and driving your 4x4 safely. The Victorian Jeep Clubs always have a good display - make sure you get along to the show this Sunday.
DETAILS HERE

Australian 2011 Grand Cherokee's Not Effected by Stability Reports

The Australian Grand Cherokee is not effected by reports of high speed stability issues found by Consumer Reports Magazine in the US.

Chrysler has addressed a handling issue with the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee that the publication discovered during independent testing. During a double-lane-change emergency maneuver, CR testers noted a considerable amount of skidding and hopping at the very limit of traction. Chrysler engineers then went to the magazine's test track to review the findings before returning to Auburn Hills to come up with a solution. In December, the automaker released a software update for the vehicle's stability control, and all Grand Cherokee models manufactured since then have come from the factory with the fix.
Its great to see Chrysler so reactive and rectify the fault immediately.
Source autoblog.com

One Of The Creators of the Wrangler Rubicon Passes Away

One of the key people at Jeep who were responsible for creating the legendary Jeep Wrangler Rubicon has passed away. Michael Gabriel was the force behind getting the concept past the beancounters at Jeep with the original TJ Wrangler Rubicon.

Mike Gabriel began his 41-year career with Chrysler in 1969. He passed away on Sunday, February 13, 2011. He was 65. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia. Survivors include his children, Danielle and Matthew.
For the story of the genesis of the Rubicon, see The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Story – Nearly Cancelled at JP Magazine
.

Jeep At The Chicago Auto Show

Mike Manley, CEO and Pesident Jeep Brand is interviewed at the Chicago Auto Show.

He talks about the companies enthusiasm for the Jeep Brand. Check Out The Video Clip HERE

Jeep Jamboree Australia 2012 Update

The planning is in full swing for the 2012 National Jeep Jamboree 2012.
The Sydney Jeep Club are in early stages of planning and checking trails already.

They have just published a few great photos of some of the Jambo Crew having some extreme fun on the trails. You can subscribe to email updates and check out more details here http://www.jeepjamboree2012.com.au/

Jeep 2011 Grand Cherokee TV Commercial Launched

DONT HOLD BACK
Here is the link to the new 2011 Grand Cherokee Australian TV Commercial released this week.
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150152644926224

Leave No Trace - Takes Over Tread Lightly Australia Mantle

Leave No Trace Australia is a national non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and inspiring responsible outdoor travel and recreation through education, research and partnerships. Leave No Trace builds awareness, appreciation and respect for our natural and cultural heritage. The have extensive information and guidelines for all sorts of recreational activities. Check out their website http://www.lnt.org.au/
Here is an example of their 4WD guidelines which are similar to 4WD Australia Code of Ethics. It makes a lot of sense to follow these guidleines to protect our 4WD recreation.

• Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Research your destination before you leave home.
• Know the regulations for the area in which you wish to travel.
• Obtain permission from the landholder or the land management agency.
• Keep group sizes small. Avoid times of high use.
• Plan your trip within the capabilities of your vehicles and drivers.
• If necessary, do a 4WD course before travelling.
• Obtain and know how to read maps before you start.
• Prepare for extreme isolation, weather hazards and emergencies. Check these ahead of time.
• Take plenty of drinking water and emergency equipment (Sat. phone, First Aid Kit, EPIRB, GPS, fire extinguisher).
• In an emergency don’t leave your vehicle.
• Notify someone of return time from isolated trips.
• Check that your vehicle is in good working condition.
• Check your vehicle for basic recovery tools. Make sure they are 4WD compatible.
• Repackage food to minimise waste, take some rubbish bags or sealable plastic tubs.
• Carry a fuel-stove and basic shelter.
• Carry a strong trowel for bush toileting.

Jeep News - Fiat Acquires VM Motori Diesel Manufacturer

This could be good news for Jeep as VM Motori build the 2.8L CRD Turbo Diesel found in Wrangler and Cherokee and the new 3.0L V6 that is coming on the new 2011 Jeep grand Cherokee.

Fiat Powertrain has acquired a 50% stake in Italian diesel engine specialist VM Motori from Penske Corp. Financial details of the transaction were not revealed. The acquisition will help expand Fiat’s diesel line-up.

VM Motori was purchased by Detroit Diesel Corporation (DDC) in 1995. Five years later it fell under DaimlerChrysler ownership when the OEM acquired DDC. Penske took a 51% in 2003, then acquired the remaining 49% from DaimlerChrysler in 2007. Penske soon after sold a 50% stake to GM and retained half itself.

GM still owns 50%. Fiat Powertrain and GM have said they will jointly manage the company.
Fiat own 35% of Chrysler LLC.

Lets hope this will assist in supplying more diesel engines for the US market and maybe a JK Rubicon Diesel for us.

VICTORIAN 4WD SHOW - WANDIN

Australia's largest outdoor 4WD event Proudly presented by the members of the Land Rover Owners Club of Victoria Inc   

The 2011 show will go live on Sunday February 20th. The Victorian 4WD show attracts a large number of visitors and provides a great opportunity to look and learn about the latest accessories, motor vehicles, campers and modifications available to 4Wdrivers. Each year the Show expands with new types of exhibitors. There is also a large contingent of local 4WD Clubs that are there to answer any questions you may have about joining a club and driving your 4x4 safely. The Victorian Jeep Clubs always have a good display - make sure you get along to the show this year.

4WD TV NOMINATED FOR TV LOGIE AWARD

It is with great excitement that we break the news that 4wd TV has been nominated for the 2011 TV Week Logie Awards.
For the first time ever producers like us are being included in the Logies and 4wd TV has been selected as one of the best possible chances to represent smaller stations like C31, Digital 44 and Imparja TV.
This is a massive opportunity for 4wd TV and for 4wdriving in general. I certainly hope that all of you will follow the information below and vote for 4wd TV. Please also consider forwarding this information to all friends, colleagues and associates. We would like to make the biggest impact possible and we need every vote we can muster please.
To vote for 4wd TV please use the link below follow this link:
http://surveys.asteroid.com.au/bvbin/bvgate.exe?noj=1&sid=916654


You will need to make a vote for each category but please ensure that 4wd TV gets the vote for the 'Most Popular Lifestyle Program' category.
Your time and support on this will be greatly appreciated. Let’s show them how strong the 4wd community is.

RUBICON EXPRESS BUSINESS CLOSURE - WARNING TO ONLINE CLIENTS

Warning to Australian Customers purchasing direct from this well known  USA Jeep Accessories Supplier. It is suggested you purchase through Australian Distributor until they sort out their business.

The information below is from their website http://www.rubiconusa.com/

"To Our Loyal Customers and Friends,

 Rubicon Express is currently closed, pending reorganization.   

Customers who have placed orders and have seen a credit card charge can rest assured that their products have been shipped.  Customers with orders that have not been processed will be contacted to confirm their order prior to payments being processed or merchandise shipment.

 Customers who have technical or warranty issues may email:support@rubiconexpress.com

We apologize for the service interruption, but look forward to serving you in the future."

More Indications of a New Wrangler Model - JK Pickup?

More indications of increase volume at the Jeep Wrangler Toledo plant this week. Further indications of an extra model (JK Pickup?) and possibly a Diesel version for US markets. The Toledo Blade news has reported..
U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis toured Chrysler Group LLC's Toledo Assembly Complex Tuesday morning, speaking to dozens of line workers as they assembled the automaker's iconic Jeep Wranglers and celebrating the plant's award-winning efficiency and union-management cooperation.
Speaking to reporters from a podium in the Wrangler plant's final assembly area during a lunchtime break, the Labor Secretary said it was “good to see the productivity, the innovation occurring here at this Chrysler Jeep plant, and to see the enthusiasm of the workers. Now, through innovation and techniques that are being used, they're more efficient, they're curbing problems that might come up with ergonomics, especially trying to make sure that they minimize [injuries].”
Ms. Solis pointed to the plant's economic role in Toledo and beyond, and hinted at a production expansion for the plant that was addressed last month by Chrysler executives in Detroit.
“What's wonderful about all of this is that this is a shot in the arm for our economy and the world, because these items here that are being produced, the [Jeep Wrangler], is not just sent here in the local area or in the United States. [This] is a product that is obviously of great interest in many other countries,” Ms. Solis said.
“That's what I liked hearing from [Toledo Assembly Complex Plant Manager Mauro] Pino earlier, that they are actually going to be upping their production and doing more, and they've exceeded what they projected last year, and therefore seeing that there's more interest in this particular vehicle.”
Mr. Pino later clarified that the “increased production” he addressed had to do with the daily and yearly output of the Wrangler plant, which produced 134,000 units in 2010, up from just under 100,000 units in 2009, to keep up with customer demand. Wrangler sales in the U.S. grew 15 percent in 2010, and 32 percent in January, over the same period a year ago. The facility's two other products, the Jeep Liberty (Cherokee) and Dodge Nitro, also had double-digit increases during the last 13 months.

Lets hope the JK Pickup becomes a reality soon in OZ.

Jeep Bull Bar Gallery

Have a look at our new Jeep Bull Bar Gallery. Still some more to add yet but already quite a list with photos. If you know of any that are missing please let us know.

Double Black Off Road

Jeep Grand Cherokee In Running For World Car Awards

The ten vehicles in the running for the 2011 World Car Awards are overwhelmingly German this year, with a single American entrant: the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which beat the Ford Explorer, Chevy Volt, and Dodge Durango to win its position.

Every major German automaker is represented with Audi having the A1 and A8, BMW the X3 and 5, Mercedes having the SLS, and Porsche having the Cayenne. Europe is also represented by Jaguar (XJ) and Volvo (S/V 60), while all Asian automakers are represented solely by the LEAF, which was apparently judged more worthy than the Volt.
The 66 jurors are journalists from across the world. The top three finalists will be announced in Geneva on March 1, and the final World Car of the Year will be announced in New York. Source - Allpar.com

Jeep History Directory

A Complete Directory of Links to articles about the history of Jeep from inception to now! Have a look at our Jeep History Directory Page and enjoy!

Jeep Australia have just released the new 2011 Jeep Wrangler models in Australia. All the new 2011 Diesel Turbo Wranglers have been upgraded to EuroV emission compliance and have a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

The Autos also come with Hill Descent Control.

The biggest change comes on the Manual Version which now comes standard with Fuel Saving new Stop-Start technology; the vehicle shuts off when stopped and shifter is in neutral and the clutch is released, restarts when clutch is depressed.

 

New 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specifications

Basic Specifications: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Grand Cherokees Laredo Limited Overland
Pentastar 3.6L V6 Engine
— Standard on Laredo & Limited
— Power kW @ rpm 210 @ 6,350
— Torque N.m @ rpm 347 @ 4,300
— Transmission 5-speed auto (W5A580)

HEMI® 5.7L V8 Engine
— Optional on Limited, Standard on Overland
— Power kW @ rpm 259 @ 5,200 259 @ 5,200
— Torque N.m @ rpm 520 @ 4,200 520 @ 4,200
— Transmission 5-speed auto (545RFE)
Drivetrain 4WD
Wheelbase 2,915
Overall length 4,822
Overall height — steel/air suspension 1,781/1,764
— aerial installed on roof adds +220
Overall width 1,943
Seating capacity 5
Head room — front/rear 960/990
Leg room — front/rear 1,025/981
Shoulder room — front/rear 1,491/1,474
Hip room — front/rear 1,449/1,428
Cargo volume (L) — seats up/seats folded 782/1,554
Track — front/rear 1,628/1,634
Ground clearance — steel/Quadra-Lift™ (NRH)(1) 218/205
Approach angle — steel/Quadra-Lift™ (NRH)(1) 26°/25°
Breakover angle — steel/Quadra-Lift™ (NRH)(1) 19°/18°
Departure angle — steel/Quadra-Lift™ (NRH)(1) 24°/23°
Water fording depth 508
Overhang — front/rear 887/1,020

More Than 4.3 million Jeep Grand Cherokee's Sold Worldwide.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Continues its Global Appeal

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee will be built at the nearly 278,709sq.m Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, which has been the North American site of Grand Cherokee production since its introduction in 1992.
In preparation for production of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee, JNAP went through a complete transformation as part of World Class Manufacturing (WCM), an extensive and thorough process to provide state-of-the-art manufacturing practices. Part of that transformation included the addition of a 26,477sq.m. expansion to replace the existing body shop, one piece of Chrysler Group’s investment of approximately $1.8 billion in new vehicle programs.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee is sold in over 100 countries
• Fourth-generation Grand Cherokee strengthens its position as the global flagship of the Jeep brand
• All-new Jeep Grand Cherokee brings premium features and amenities to the SUV segment and continues to set the off-road benchmark
Since its introduction, more than 4.3 million Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles have been sold worldwide. Leading the path carved by its three predecessors, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee will continue to set a global standard with its on-road refinement, off-road mastery and overall performance.

MORE THAN 45 SAFETY & SECURITY FEATURES IN NEW JEEP

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee includes more than 45 safety and security features.
Standard safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with rough-road detection, All-speed Traction Control (ASTC), Trailer-sway Control (TSC), Keyless Enter-N-Go™ (passive entry/pushbutton start), remote keyless entry, express up/down windows for driver and front-seat passenger seat-belt pretensioners.
Other standard safety features include next generation air bags that enhance protection for the driver and front passenger, full-length side-curtain air bags that extend protection to front and rear outboard passengers, seat-mounted side thorax air bags that enhance protection for the driver and front passenger, standard driver inflatable knee bolster and active head restraints that deploy in the event of a rear collision.
In June 2010, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee was presented with a ‘Top Safety Pick’ award by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) – the highest rating the organisation bestows. Vehicles that earn ‘Top Safety Pick’ meet the highest standards for crash test performance, encompassing state-of-the-art safety for the best protection in the most common types of crashes.

WORLD CLASS INTERIOR FOR NEW 2011 GRAND CHEROKEE

World-class Interior Refinement: The all-new interior features rich materials and elegant appointments as well as more room for both passengers and cargo.

The instrument panel is completely redesigned and features soft-touch material with available contrast stitching that is carried throughout the interior, including seats. Soft-touch material is integrated not only on the instrument panel but on customer touch points including doors, consoles and armrests. By using softer materials, the Jeep design team was able to achieve fit and finish complimented by lower interior noise levels.
The all-new CommandView® dual-pane sun roof is standard on Overland models and available on Limited. It provides twice as much glass surface than a standard sun roof 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 sun shade.
Interior Comfort: Inside, premium seating includes room for five passengers.
Front seat passengers will always find the perfect seat position thanks to standard 8-way power seats with 4-way power lumber adjustment and 4-way head restraints.
For added passenger comfort, rear seats recline a total of 12 degrees, with three lockable detents to make selection quick and easy. The 60/40 split fold seat back also features 12 degrees of forward adjustment to provide increased cargo carrying capacity without stowing the rear seat back. The maximum rear cargo volume is 11-percent larger than the outgoing model and 782L in total.
Compared to previous models, a larger front door opening is 48mm wider and 51mm higher, and the rear door opening is now 78 degrees (from 67 degrees) for better access to the interior.
The well-appointed rear cargo area includes a storage unit with a rechargeable flashlight and new and improved baggage hooks on both sides. The spare tyre compartment includes removable dual storage bins for secure storage of muddy gear or other items.
An all-new power rear liftgate is available for effortless remote up/down convenience.

Jeep America Sales Up 47% Over January 2010

January 2011 was the 10th straight month of year-over-year sales increases for Chrysler Group in the U.S. Total unit volume was 70,118, a 23 percent increase compared with sales in January 2010 when we sold 57,143 vehicles. Jeep had a huge increase of 47% in sales over January 2010 with 2011 Grand Cherokee and Wrangler performing exceptionally well over the other Jeep models.

Chrysler Australia are expecting a similar improvement for 2011 sales when stocks of the new Grand Cherokee start to flow and marketing and media kick in for the 2011 Grand Cherokee and Wrangler.. 

The top vehicles for January were Ram Pickup (12,197 units), Dodge Grand Caravan (7,813), Jeep Grand Cherokee (7,612), Chrysler Town & Country (Grand Voyager) (6,552) and Jeep Wrangler (6,444).

Corowa 32nd Annual Military Vehicle Gathering

32nd Annual GPA Swim-In and Ex-Military Vehicle Gathering Corowa NSW

Monday 14th March to Sunday 20th March 2011

The theme for 2011 is 'Year of the British and European Vehicles'

All ex military vehicles and enthusiasts are invited to attend.

Corowa has become the largest military vehicle rally under the Southern Cross and is attended by guests and participants alike from all over the world.

presented by the Kahki Vehicle Enthusiasts Inc.

Website www.corowaswim-in.org