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September is Baby Safety Month

• Chrysler Group Offers Free Child Passenger Safety Tips and Resources

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 26, 2004 -September marks Baby Safety Month and a time to remember to keep all children safe in vehicles, no matter what age. Traffic crashes remain the No. 1 killer of kids. To help keep children safe in vehicles, Chrysler Group offers child passenger safety resources and tips and a free car seat inspection service for parents, year-round.

Incorrect use of child restraints can lead to serious injury or death to the child in the event of a crash. Chrysler Group offers two free services to educate parents about child passenger safety: SEATCHECK provides a free car-seat inspection locator service through a Web site (www.seatcheck.org) and a toll-free hotline (1-866-SEAT-CHECK), and Fit for a Kid, a dealer-based child safety-seat inspection service.

“Each day, nearly eight out of 10 children are riding in car seats that are not properly used or installed,” said Deborah Morrissett, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Chrysler Group.  “That’s an enormous and unnecessary risk to children. We urge all parents to take 20 minutes this month to make sure their children are riding safely in their car seats.”

Safety experts like the National Safety Council (NSC) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommend the following tips for proper child safety seat use.

• Use rear-facing infant seats in the back seat from birth to at least one year old and at least 20 pounds.
• Remember: Never place a rear-facing infant seat in front of a passenger air bag.
• Toddlers over one year and 20-40 pounds should be in a convertible and forward-facing seat.
• Young children over 40 pounds, between the ages of four and eight, unless taller than 4’9” should ride in booster seats.
• Always read both the vehicle owner’s manual and the instructions that come with the child safety seat.
• It’s important to remember that the “best” child safety seat is the one that correctly fits the child, the vehicle, and is used correctly every time.
• Children age 12 and under should ride in the back seat and ALWAYS use seat belts.

Not only should parents select the proper car seat for their child and have it inspected to ensure proper installation, but also parents should remember these additional safety tips:

• Every passenger should wear a seat belt; and
• Children should never be left unattended in or around a vehicle (Most states have laws that make it illegal to leave the keys in an unattended vehicle or to leave children in a vehicle without an adult present.)

"While many car crashes cannot be prevented, we can reduce injury and death to children and passengers by properly buckling up,” said Chuck Hurley, Vice President, transportation safety group, National Safety Council.  SEATCHECK provides listings to over 4,000 inspection locations. Chrysler Group sponsors SEATCHECK with the support of NHTSA, the NSC, Graco Children’s Products, Toys ‘R Us and Babies ‘R Us.

To find a participating Fit for a Kid dealer, parents can call toll-free 1-877-F it-4-a-Kid or log on to www.fitforakid.org. Safety seat inspections are available by appointment at participating Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep® dealers for anyone, regardless of make or model vehicle they drive.

Chrysler Group sponsors the program along with the NSC and Graco Children’s Products.

"As far as we're concerned, the verdict on the DaimlerChrysler merger is in. Together, the two companies have built a gotta-get-one vehicle that neither Mercedes nor Chrysler was ever able to deliver at anywhere near this price. Case closed, jury dismissed."

Chrysler 300C takes the first place in this Car and Driver Magazine Comparison of Chrysler 300C, Ford Crown victoria LX Sport, and Pontiac Bonneville GXP.

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 17, 2004 - The 2005 Jeep_® Grand Cherokee blends past and future by evolving its heritage into a sophisticated and contemporary execution of an icon while using state-of-the-art technology to produce the highest quality vehicle possible.

“Quality is the lifeblood of any vehicle and company, but when that vehicle is a Jeep, all bars are raised,” said Stephen Walukas, Vice President, Corporate Quality. “Jeep owners know that quality has to be a priority if they are going to use their vehicle like no other sport-utility vehicle in the world.”

The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee was designed and engineered under the Chrysler Development System (CDS), the comprehensive, coordinated and disciplined product creation process that improves quality and speed-to-market while reducing costs and encouraging practical innovation in new products.

An emphasis in CDS is the systems engineering, design and up-front planning to avoid time-consuming and costly trial and error or changes during the latter phases of the product development cycle. With CDS, all product and process planning is completed and fully integrated before production tooling begins.

The system works: For Grand Cherokee alone, warranty repairs and expenses have been reduced by more than 60 percent in the past five years.

In external quality metrics, the Chrysler Group brands continue to make dramatic year-over-year improvements, prompting the results in one quality image survey, known as the Strategic Position Study, to show a four percent improvement – more than any other manufacturer in the study.

The improvements in quality are reinforced with the 7-year/70,000 mile Limited Powertrain Warranty on the Jeep Grand Cherokee and other Chrysler Group products.

Development of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee involved the work of hundreds of engineers along with the world-class testing facilities at the DaimlerChrysler Technology Center (DCTC) in Auburn Hills, Mich., and proving grounds located in Michigan and Arizona. These engineers logged more than seven million miles of customer equivalent driving and experience in the vehicle.

The vehicle also benefited from a new $37 million Aero-Acoustic Wind Tunnel at the company’s Technology Center, which was completed in the summer of 2002, along with environmental simulators on site. Engineers had the opportunity to test early, full-size clay models more than 700 times to analyze various configurations of the design to make aerodynamic changes as well as to validate cooling and wind noise goals.

For example, dynamic sealing (essentially, weather strips) were strategically placed throughout the vehicle as a result of items learned during testing. Exact placement of the sealing included additional cut line coverage to decrease wind noise; lower coverage to decrease road noise; and, upper auxiliary seals improve water and wind management. In addition, an increased use of cavity foam and environmentally friendly water-borne sound dampening were applied in the body and paint sealing process at the manufacturing level as a result of the testing.

In fact, literally hundreds of hours were spent in test labs to minimize noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). In the area of wind noise, testing revealed many reduction enablers to assist in the design, NVH and engineering process. This included the ultimate shaping of mirrors, A-pillar geometry, thickness on side glass portions, and seals on the door glass runs and at the upper C-pillar and lift gate.

In addition to wind noise reductions, the team used extensive testing and data to refine the new Grand Cherokee’s powertrain, providing both hardware refinements and acoustic treatments. In particular, control of critical axle assemblies – such as ring and pinion mesh profiles that were selected for minimum gear noise – were key factors in NVH reductions. In addition, individual component and system balancing, as well as tightened tolerances on the rear drive shafts, were elements that were implemented early in the vehicle’s development.

Grand Cherokee vehicles underwent extreme body torsion and suspension articulation in tests such as “AK3”. AK3 is derived from the original test used to qualify Jeep vehicles for military use. Several of the new Grand Cherokee vehicles successfully completed back-to-back AK3 cycles. This helps to ensure that the new Grand Cherokee will meet or exceed customer durability and reliability requirements.

Four separate “Lap of America” trips were initiated during the phases of development to validate all aspects of vehicle performance to Jeep customer requirements. Trips from Detroit to all areas of the United States were taken to ensure the function of all systems under all ranges of customer use, including trailer tow and altitude testing. 

Validation trips worldwide also were conducted from – 41 degrees Fahrenheit to 122 degrees Fahrenheit in such locations and conditions as:

All of these elements are proof that not only is there “one” Jeep, but one type of Jeep testing when it comes to quality: Extreme.

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 17, 2004 - In an effort to improve the overall driving experience of the all-new 2005 Jeep_® Grand Cherokee, the Chrysler Group has enhanced its vehicle communication options through practical applications, all of which can be experienced at the touch of a button.

UConnect™ Hands-Free Communication System
The UConnect hands-free communication system uses Bluetooth® technology to provide wireless communication between the customer’s compatible cellular telephone and the vehicle’s on-board receiver. Bluetooth is a short-range wireless networking technology that is used to connect two or more devices together.

"As the number of drivers using cell phones increases, hands-free, voice-activated technology is the easiest way to connect a driver to a cell phone call safely," said Jack Withrow, Director - Vehicle Entertainment Communications. "We were the first North American automaker to offer its customers a Bluetooth-enabled automotive dealer-installed application last year."

The factory-installed version allows the audio to be heard through the vehicle’s radio speakers, and a control pad and microphone are housed in the rearview mirror, serving as the driver interface. UConnect factory-installation is $275 and is available on the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee and many other 2005 Chrysler Group products.

UConnect features the following:

• Voice dialing – Voice commands can be used to digit-dial the phone or access pre-stored voice tags
• Audio address book – Enables customers to store up to 32 names, four numbers per name, for a total of 128 phone numbers
• Audio system mute – Mutes the microphone for privacy
• Call transfer – Allows the customer to transfer a call from the vehicle’s system to the mobile phone
• Communicates in three languages – French, Spanish and English
• Multi-phone recognition – Up to five phones can be used within one vehicle’s system

UConnect is also available as a dealer-installed option. Dealer installation is $299 (suggested retail price) plus labor, and available on all Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles dating back to 1994; excluding Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler Sebring Convertible and Chrysler Crossfire Convertible.

REC Navigation Radio System
The DVD-based navigation system has features that will appeal to both road travelers and music enthusiasts alike. The REC navigation system is housed in the center of the dashboard, which is convenient to both the driver and passenger. A large 5.8 inch full-color display features an MP3 player (a navigation-system first), AM/FM stereo, six-disc CD system and navigation system in one unit. A joystick allows the user to scroll through the navigation menus and icons quickly and effortlessly.

Utilizing voice commands, the system guides the user through the drive route, mile-by-mile, turn-by-turn until the final destination is reached. Destinations can be entered into the system 10 different ways and the screen can be viewed as a detailed map, or enlarged to display turn-by-turn directions.

The REC navigation system features a single DVD, which contains mapping, points of interest and business phone numbers across the U.S., where digitized mapping data and information are available. When a destination is entered, the navigation system uses data from the DVD to quickly calculate the route, providing information within seconds.

REC navigation system features:

• Map Zoom – Select from nine different zoom scales to increase or decrease map magnification
• Voice Guidance – Choose from four options: Maximum, Normal, Minimum or Off
• Route Guidance – View the screen as a turn-by-turn map, full display map or a combination of both
• Three Language Option – Select English, French or Spanish. Preferences are in miles or kilometers
• Five Routing Methods – Shortest Route, Quickest Route, Minimize Toll Roads, Maximize Freeway and Minimize Freeway
• Automatic Route Recalculation and Detour Functions – The system automatically recalculates the position and displays a new route should the user encounter a detour or stray from the directions indicated on the display monitor
• Maneuver List – Review the trip itinerary prior to departure and make changes before heading out on the road
• Trail Function – Obtain longitude, latitude and altitude information

SIRIUS Satellite Radio
SIRIUS provides Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep customers with 100 streams of the best music, entertainment and information coast-to-coast. SIRIUS offers 60 music streams of commercial-free music along with 40 sports, news and entertainment streams, 24 hours a day.

Consumers selecting the SIRIUS Satellite Radio option will receive a small, mouse-sized antenna mounted to the roof of the vehicle. Station selection with the radio is easy. Consumers will be able to scan channels or select pre-set buttons for favorite channels. Consumers will also be able to search both by music category and channel, which will be displayed on the radio screen.

The Chrysler Group offers SIRIUS satellite radio as both a dealer- and factory-installed feature. Factory installation for 2005 model year Chrysler Group products is being offered at $195 (suggested retail price) and includes a one-year SIRIUS subscription. The suggested retail price for dealer-installation on previous model year vehicles is $299 plus labor, in addition to a SIRIUS subscription of $12.95 per month.

Rear-Seat Entertainment System
A DVD entertainment system – consisting of center-console-mounted DVD player, overhead LCD monitor, wireless remote control, and two wireless headsets – is located for rear-seat passenger enjoyment. In addition to video DVDs, the system will play audio DVDs, audio CDs, MP3 audio discs and video CDs. There are also plug-in jacks on the housing to show video from a video camera, connect video games for display on the screen and play music directly from an MP3 player.

A unique feature of the DVD entertainment system, operated by the remote control unit and made possible by the vehicle’s Controller Area Network system, is the ability of the vehicle speakers to play audio from a disc in the DVD player while the headphones play audio from the satellite radio, AM/FM radio, or a disc in the radio CD player.

“Chrysler Group’s vehicle communications strategy places an emphasis on creating a safe driving environment through practical innovations, while enabling customers to choose the services they want,” said Withrow. “It’s all about simplicity, safety, freedom and flexibility.”

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 17, 2004 - Practical innovation is applied to the all-new 2005 Jeep_® Grand Cherokee through integrated safety and security features designed in from the beginning.

Systems such as Electronic Limited Slip Differentials and available Electronic Stability Program (ESP) contribute to the Grand Cherokee’s exceptional vehicle dynamics. Advanced multistage front and available side curtain air bags, tire pressure monitoring system, ParkSense™ (rear park assist), UConnect™ hands-free communications, REC navigation system and all-new SmartBeam® headlamps offer the latest innovation in occupant protection, safety and security on the road.

"Applying the latest available technology to protect occupants is of utmost importance to the Chrysler Group," said Craig Love, Vice President – Rear Wheel Drive Product Team and Core Team Leader. "By integrating safety and security technologies during the design phase, we’re able to offer our customers the tools to avoid collisions as well as protection in the event of a collision."

Chrysler Group’s vehicle development engineers test beyond current regulations to ensure optimum performance and to improve vehicle safety. They evaluated the Jeep Grand Cherokee with tests beyond current government mandates, such as 40 mph front offset and 50 mph rear impact tests. The 40 mph front impact simulates a high-speed vehicle-to-vehicle crash. The 50 mph offset rear-impact test evaluates fuel system integrity when a vehicle is hit from behind on the side nearest the fuel filler tube at high speeds.

In addition, Chrysler Group engineers used pole tests to evaluate occupant protection and concentrated side loading. These tests mimic accidents with narrow objects, such as hitting a telephone pole or tree, to evaluate the side-air bag sensing system. Crash examples may be severe because the crash forces are concentrated in a relatively small area of the vehicle.

Crash Protection Features
The 1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee was the first sport-utility vehicle to be equipped with a driver’s side air bag. The Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to be equipped with the latest technology, like advanced multistage air bags with an occupant classification system (OCS) for the front passenger occupant. This system classifies the severity of an impact event and uses additional sensor information to further modify passenger air bag output for smaller occupants. The resulting deployment could be low, medium or high output, or – in certain instances – none at all. However, even with this advanced system designed to meet government requirements, all occupants are advised to always sit properly in their seat with the seat belt fastened. Children 12 and under should always be in a back seat correctly using an infant or child restraint system or the seat belt positioned correctly for the child’s age and weight.

State-of-the-art energy management features in the body structure and chassis work in conjunction with air bag and seatbelt systems. Front seat belts are equipped with belt pretensioners and constant force retractors. Pretensioners tighten the seat belt to help keep the occupant in place while constant force retractors balance the load on the upper body, reducing injuries from excessive seat belt forces. Head restraints are standard in every seating position. The driver’s side is also equipped with BeltAlert® – an enhanced seat belt reminder system that periodically activates a chime and illuminates a light in the instrument cluster to remind the driver to buckle up.

Crash Avoidance Features
To optimize overall driving performance, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers ESP. This helps the driver maintain directional stability on dry pavement, in rain, snow or on ice. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) is equipped with electronic sensors that help to prevent wheel lockup, and provide excellent stability and steerability during braking on virtually every type of road surface. ParkSense™ – rear park assist – helps the driver detect stationary objects while the vehicle is moving in reverse.

Tire pressure monitoring (TPM) is standard on all Jeep Grand Cherokees. The system includes pressure sensor modules that are integrated with the valve stems of all four road wheels as well as the spare tire. Each module sends continuous radio frequency signals to a receiver and informs occupants when the pressure is too low. The TPM system displays tire pressure through the Electronic Vehicle Information Center.

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 17, 2004 - When it came time to redesign the all-new 2005 Jeep_® Grand Cherokee, keeping what customers love about the vehicle and breaking new ground to improve its design was a delicate balance.

“There is no doubt the Jeep brand is an American icon, so it’s important we stay true to the Grand Cherokee’s design heritage as well as the elements customers tell us they love about the vehicle,” said Rick Aneiros, Vice President - Jeep/Truck Design. “We’ve taken some of the traditional design cues and moved them forward to capture a look and feel that’s refreshing and timeless. The result is nothing short of an authentic Jeep.”

Exterior Form is Poised and Ready to Take Action
With its upright and substantial posture, the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s new design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance. The new exterior design has a higher belt line and a reduced glass-to-body proportion. Signature features of the vehicle remain, such as the seven-slot grille which boldly dominates the front view. The Grand Cherokee Laredo will feature a painted body color grille, while a chrome-plated grille will accent the Limited.

“The challenge with Jeep design is to capture that limitless capability and attitude with an appearance that is fresh, fitting and timeless,” said John Sgalia, Director - Jeep Interior and Exterior Design. “Additionally, we know there are certain elements that can’t change on a Jeep because our customer base is very knowledgeable and has very specific demands.”

High-performance halogen headlamps employ a rounded traditional Jeep appearance and gracefully integrate into a powerful hood form. The hood features sophisticated nacelles – hood forms that protect and shelter the headlamps. The hood, air dam and exterior mirrors were developed in the Chrysler Group’s wind tunnel in Auburn Hills, MI, to minimize wind noise and maximize aerodynamics.

The shape of the body has been thoughtfully designed to protect the sides of the vehicle from potential road debris thrown off the tires. The heavy and expensive cladding used on the previous model is replaced with a more efficient body-side shape and moldings that are incorporated into the design. The body-side molding also has the integrated Grand Cherokee name for a quality look and feel.

At the side, a proportionately longer hood and greater distance between the center of the front axle and base of windshield visually communicates more engine emphasis to achieve a more powerful image.

At the rear, larger taillamps feature red and clear lenses for a look that presents a luxurious feel without being gaudy. Badges are now injection-molded and chrome-plated to communicate a richness and sense of precision.

“The Grand Cherokee driver expects a high level of comfort and refinement and also wants to know the legendary Jeep capability and core values are still there when they need them,” said Mark Allen, Design Manager and the 2005 Grand Cherokee’s exterior designer. “The 2005 model was designed with that credo.”

Interior Design Both Elegant and Functional
The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee takes capability and refinement to new levels, proving there’s no reason a capable vehicle can’t be comfortable and polished. A new and inviting interior awaits occupants with a rich two-tone instrument panel treatment, new door trims and upscale interior finishes.

The seats are beautifully crafted with contours that are precise, firm and ergonomic, featuring a new robust structure. They are purpose-built and designed for long-distance comfort with trim styles different for each model: Laredo features cloth and optional leather while Limited seats are two-tone leather with perforated leather seat inserts.
The dramatic and elegant instrument panel design offers a high degree of precision. The instrument panel features a dark upper color and lighter lower color. Multiple storage bins have been added for additional storage.

“Quality isn’t just the workings of the interior but the perception the customer feels when he or she is in the vehicle,” said Clyde Ney, Design Manager and the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s interior designer. “The touch points, the sound the switches make, the fit and finish, the textures and lighter colors are all vital to a quality experience because that’s where the occupants literally live while traveling.”

A new precise four-gauge instrument cluster with LED illumination features black gauges surrounded with red pointers, for reading ease in all lighting conditions. On the Limited model, the gauges are surrounded by chrome accent rings.

In the cargo area, versatility and storage reign. A new reversible load floor panel is carpeted on one side and offers easy-to-clean plastic on the other. The plastic side includes a large shallow tray for additional utility.

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 17, 2004 - When pinpointing what is special about the all-new 2005 Jeep_® Grand Cherokee, some things are readily apparent. The vehicle has a new design, improved ride and handling capabilities, new features – like the optional 5.7-liter HEMI^® V-8 engine – and enough upscale amenities to make many luxury cars envious.

And yet, what is perhaps most special about the 2005 Grand Cherokee is something that is not readily apparent. It’s an intangible ingredient that no other vehicle in its class can claim: the heritage of Jeep.

“The heroic heritage of Jeep stretches back more than 60 years,” said Jeff Bell, Vice President – Jeep. “It’s a heritage built on freedom, adventure, mastery and authenticity. Those are the core values of every Jeep vehicle we design and build. The 2005 Grand Cherokee embodies that rich heritage in a modern, sophisticated package.”

The 4x4 military “Jeep” of World War II – praised by GIs and generals alike for its ruggedness, dependability and go-anywhere capability – is the starting point of the Jeep family tree.

The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee traces its lineage to a major branch of that tree, beginning with the 1946 Jeep Station Wagon, manufactured by the Willys-Overland Motor Corporation. The 4x2 Jeep Station Wagon was notable for being the first all-steel wagon. It was powered by the famous “Go-Devil” engine used in the military Jeep vehicles. The Jeep Station Wagon was taller than today’s station wagons, with a height of 72.75 inches. (By comparison, the 2005 Grand Cherokee is 67.7 inches in height.)

The 1949 Jeep Station Wagon landed in showrooms with a new grille – eight slots instead of the 10 slots on the ’46 model. The big news, however, was that 1949 was the first year for the four-wheel drive Jeep wagon.

The next major milestone leading to the Grand Cherokee was the 1963 Jeep Wagoneer. Introduced in two- and four-wheel drive versions, the Wagoneer is considered the first true sport-utility vehicle, even though that term was not commonly used until the 1980s. The Wagoneer’s car-like interior and comfort, its ruggedness, and four-wheel drive capability made it a unique vehicle in its day.

Just a few years later came the 1966 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, staking its claim as the first luxury SUV. It was a limited edition 4x4 with such features as a padded vinyl roof with chrome roof rack, power steering and brakes, tilt steering column, contoured bucket seats and power rear tailgate. The engine was the four-barrel, 327 “Vigilante” V-8 with 270 horsepower. The Grand Wagoneer was “built like a bank vault,” according to a reviewer at the time, and “…it looks just as much at home in the parking lot of the most posh country club as it does next to a prairie camp fire.”

Jeep reignited the luxury SUV segment spectacularly on Jan. 7, 1992, at the North American International Auto Show. That day, an all-new 1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee was driven through a glass window at the Cobo Convention Center in Detroit.

The ’93 Grand Cherokee was the first sport-utility vehicle equipped with a driver’s side air bag. It had the highest horsepower, at 190, in its class. It was also the first SUV that used the environmentally friendly R134A refrigerant. Most importantly, and true to its heritage, the 1993 Grand Cherokee set new standards for on-road ride, handling and comfort in a sport-utility vehicle.

The second generation Jeep Grand Cherokee, the 1999 model, offered new features that put even further distance between it and its competition. Among them were:

• The Quadra-Drive_® four-wheel drive system that provided progressive, speed-sensing torque transfer, which kept the vehicle moving with minimal traction.
• A new steering system with repositioned linkages for better feel and response throughout all speed ranges. The turning circle was reduced by one foot.
• An all-new electronically controlled transmission produced smoother shift and improved fuel economy.
• A new refined front suspension offered a smoother, more car-like ride with stiffer and stronger control.

The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee grows an important new branch to the Jeep family tree. While it resembles the 1993 and 1999 models, readily apparent are the differences and the improvements. The 2005 Grand Cherokee has a new, more athletic design, a more luxurious interior and upscale amenities, three new full-time four-wheel drive systems, two new engines, two new transfer cases, an all-new suspension, rack and pinion steering, and an all-new five-speed automatic transmission. Equally as important as the hardware is the heritage of the Jeep brand.

“Jeep is one of the most recognized brand names in the world,” said Bell. “It is a brand that people know and trust because Jeep vehicles have more than six decades of go-anywhere, do-anything capability and technological innovation. The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee is another proud example of that heritage.”

• Three Full-Time 4x4 Systems Offer Command and Control of All Road Conditions

• Industry-First Use of Electronic Limited Slip Differentials – Front/Rear/Center

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 17, 2004 - With three distinct 4x4 systems that combine the legendary Jeep_® off-road capability with refined on-road driving manners, the all-new 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee sets a new benchmark in the SUV market. Three unique 4x4 systems offer customers the ability to decide what system suits their driving needs.

“The legendary reputation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is based on its 4x4 systems,” said Craig Love, Vice President, Rear Wheel Drive Product Team and Core Team Leader. “The Jeep engineering team made significant strides to ensure that the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee not only maintained its off-road reputation, but also improved its on-road driving manners. Now, customers have the ability to choose a Jeep-engineered 4x4 system that’s almost tailor-made for their driving needs, be it everyday driving or tackling the most difficult off-road terrain.”

Quadra-Trac I_®

For Jeep Grand Cherokee customers who want the assurance of full-time, four-wheel drive without any switches or levers to pull, the Quadra-Trac I is the right system. The system provides for smooth operation of the vehicle over a variety of road surface conditions.

The NV140 transfer case splits torque 48/52 percent (front/rear) for nearly even distribution of engine power. The single-speed transfer case has been designed to rigorous Jeep durability standards while offering smooth and quiet operation. The use of the Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) with the NV140 transfer case makes the 4x4 system extremely competent in a variety of situations.

“Offering a single-speed transfer case attracts a new group of buyers to the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup and builds on the capable, entry-level, two-wheel drive versions, which currently account for approximately 25 percent of Jeep vehicle sales,” said Love.

Quadra-Trac II_®

The Quadra-Trac II 4x4 system for 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee gives the customer the benefit of the NV245 active transfer case and BTCS.

The transfer case is the same one used in the Quadra-Drive II_® system. It takes input from a variety of sensors to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system also uses Throttle Anticipate – sensing quick movement in throttle from a stop – and takes steps to maximize traction before tire slippage even occurs.

Torque is transferred to the individual wheels as needed by the BTCS to maintain traction in changing road conditions. When the system senses tire slip, it modulates brake pressure to the slipping wheel, which directs torque to the tires with the best traction.

Quadra-Trac II features an electronic shift mechanism for ease-of-use. The transfer case also includes a neutral position for trouble-free towing behind another vehicle.

Quadra-Drive II_®

The Quadra-Drive II Jeep 4x4 system offers customers the ultimate in off-road capability. It combines the NV245 full-time transfer case with Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (ELSD) for best-in-class tractive performance. The system instantly detects tire slip and smoothly distributes engine torque to the tires with traction. In some cases, the vehicle will even anticipate low traction and adjust to proactively limit or eliminate slip.

The heart of the system is the NV245 active transfer case. This transfer case includes a center differential coupled with an electronically controlled clutch pack, varying it from a completely open state to completely locked, and infinite possibilities in between. The 4-Low gear ratio is 2.72:1.

A key component in the Quadra-Drive II system is the ELSD – an industry-first application – and the new benchmark for automatic traction differentials. The ELSD uses electronically controlled clutch packs to automatically and instantly vary from slip to lock at each axle. This maximizes traction when needed without any of the on-road drawbacks normally associated with such a robust 4x4 system.

All components of the system work together, continually monitoring needs, to provide smooth and automatic application of the components for best-in-class tractive performance while improving the day-to-day on-road driving experience. For example, the ELSD releases the clutch packs in the front axle during turns to allow differentiation and prevent crow hop.

"The 4-wheel drive Chrysler Pacifica received the top ranking among all 2004 model year sport/utility vehicles that have been rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's new, more detailed, roll-over ratings. The new rating system was announced today."

Deep Lava Red Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 Flows onto Scene at Motor City's Annual Dream Cruise

Auburn Hills, Mich., Aug 17, 2004 -

Chrysler kicked off this year's Woodward Dream Cruise today with an eruption on Woodward Avenue.

Awash in Deep Lava Red paint, a maroon cloth convertible top and powered by a 220-horsepower high-output turbocharged engine, the latest version of the Chrysler PT Cruiser was unveiled today on Woodward Avenue in Royal Oak. The new 2005 Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 will be available this fall as a limited production version of the Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible.

"The Chrysler PT Convertible Dream Cruiser sizzles," said Jeff Bell, Vice President—Chrysler. "Painted in a stunning Deep Lava Red, this PT Cruiser is hotter than a volcano both inside and out." 

"The Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 has plenty of power burbling under the hood," added Larry Lyons, Vice President—Front Wheel Drive Product Team. "Powered by the PT Cruiser Convertible GT's 2.4-liter 220-horsepower high-output turbo engine with a Getrag five-speed manual transaxle or an optional four-speed automatic with AutoStick®, the PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 leaves the crowd behind."

Announced in conjunction with Detroit's famed Woodward Dream Cruise, the Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 will begin production this month. For North American markets, each vehicle will have a reserved, sequenced Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), as well as a special owner's manual holder in Light Pearl Beige, embossed with the Dream Cruiser Series 4 shield logo. For international markets, the vehicle will be called "Chrysler PT Street Cruiser Series 4."

The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 will be $30,260 for the manual transaxle version and $30,700 for the automatic transaxle model. Both prices include $590 for destination. 

Lava Red Accents Flow From the Outside In

In addition to its unique exterior paint and matching cloth convertible top, the Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 will feature chrome grille accents and 17-inch Satin Silver-painted 15-spoke wheels with a smooth silver center cap. Dream Cruiser Series 4 badging, complete with Deep Lava Red accents, is featured on the decklid.

A Light Pearl Beige convertible boot coordinates with Light Pearl Beige leather performance seats. Complementary maroon accents appear throughout the interior. Leather seats feature perforated leather inserts in Light Pearl Beige and "half moon" accents in maroon. Front seat head restraints include an embossed Chrysler brand winged logo; and Dark Taupe floor mats feature an embroidered Dream Cruiser logo in a contrasting Light Pearl Beige thread. The instrument panel has Deep Lava Red accents with a prismatic foil PT Cruiser graphic on the passenger side of the dashboard.

Things From Which Dreams are Made

New for 2005, the Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 comes with a standard premium Infinity® audio system that was designed specifically for the Dream Cruiser. It has 368 watts peak system power and dual voice-coil rear 6 x 9-inch speakers. It’s the first usage in the PT family of the eight-channel digitally amplified system that is acoustically tuned to the vehicle interior, maximizing audio output and clarity while minimizing distortion. The audio system has speed dependent bass boost that automatically elevates the bass as the vehicle’s speed increases. The Infinity audio system will also be available as an option on the 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible Touring and GT Models.

Designed to be the ultimate PT Convertible, standard features on the Dream Cruiser Series 4 include heated front seats, AM/FM radio with an in-dash six-disc CD changer and a chrome shifter bezel on automatic transaxle equipped vehicles. All this is in addition to the vast array of standard features found on the top-of-the-line PT Cruiser Convertible GT model, including new-for-2005 bright accents on the pedals, chrome door lock knobs, leather-wrapped steering wheel with satin silver spokes and HomeLink® universal garage door opener, along with power windows, locks and mirrors, remote keyless entry, solar-tinted "Smart" glass, compass/temperature display rearview mirror, driver seat power height adjuster and manual lumbar adjuster, fog lamps, theft alarm, Sentry Key® theft-deterrent system, rear glass window with electric defroster, air conditioning, rear 50/50 split fold and tumble seats, a pass-through cargo area, a sport-tuned suspension with ABS four-wheel disc brakes and low-speed traction control, and driver and passenger side air bags.

Peak Power Pours from PT

The high-output 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that powers the 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Dream Series 4 produces 220 horsepower (164 kW) at 5100 rpm and 245 lb.-ft. (332 N·m) of torque from 2400 to 4400 rpm. A five-speed Getrag manual transaxle is standard on the Dream Cruiser Series 4; a four-speed automatic transaxle with AutoStick is also available. 

Chrysler PT Cruiser Lineup Continues to Grow

The Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 marks the ninth factory-customized version of the segment-busting PT Cruiser since its launch in 2000. The Chrysler PT Dream Cruiser Series 4 joins the Flames, Woodie, PT Dream Cruiser Series 1, 2, and 3, PT Turbo and Chrome Accents models, as well as the Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible, which went on sale earlier this year.

Chrysler PT Cruiser Production

Chrysler PT Cruiser and Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible vehicles are built at the Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico. From its launch as a production vehicle in February 2000 through July 2004, 722,862 Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles have been sold worldwide.

Since its introduction in 2002, the Jeep® Liberty has captured the attention of Jeep owners and attracted a new generation of sport-utility vehicle buyers who value the best combination of Jeep 4 x 4 capability and on-road refinement in the mid-size sport-utility segment. The vehicle has garnered nearly 75 percent new buyers to the Jeep brand, while still appealing to traditional Jeep 4 x 4 owners.

For 2005, the Jeep Liberty unveils a new freshened exterior and interior design on the Sport and Limited models, and the Liberty Renegade takes on a more rugged design with its unique exterior. Also new to the lineup for 2005 are a six-speed manual transmission and the first turbo Common Rail Diesel (CRD) engine offering in a mid-size SUV for North American markets.

"Jeep Liberty's refreshed interior and exterior help to solidify the vehicle's leadership position in the marketplace while staying true to its Jeep heritage," said Jeff Bell, Vice President - Jeep. "The 2005 Jeep Liberty offers the best combination of Jeep 4 x 4 capability and on-road refinement in a mid-size SUV."

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