Jeep's Grand plans

Following Chrysler LLC's revelation of an all-new WL series Jeep Grand Cherokee set to play a big part in its heavily financed recovery plans, the Carparazzi team has captured these shots of a heavily disguised vehicle under test in the USA.

The test mule is clearly a perambulating version of the vehicle in images revealed to Congress as part of Chrysler's pitch for US government funds.

We do know that the next Grand Cherokee is all new, and that it is expected to share much with the next-generation Mercedes-Benz ML-Class and Dodge Durango. It is said to draw inspiration from the Trailhawk concept seen at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show.

The new photos don't really tell us much more than the fact Jeep is pressing ahead with development. The rear-end pic shows it will get high-set taillights and a slightly tapered tailgate consistent with the more fluid design.

Using unitary construction, the parallel development with the Benz ML model indicates Grand Cherokee will grow in size, to the point that a seven-seater could well be on the cards to replace the Jeep Commander that is expected to be dumped after 2009.

The next Grand Cherokee is also well-placed to reap the benefits of the new interior design facility established by Chrysler in 2006. The interior views revealed to Congress showed better looks and a much improved layout.

Important for the viability of the WL Grand Cherokee will be the adoption of the new "Phoenix" V6 with cylinder deactivation that is claimed to bring fuel economy improvements of up to 19 per cent. The new V6 is expected to be available in 3.3-litre and 3.6-litre variants.

And, while the V6 will help to bring average Jeep fuel consumption figures down, speculation persists that 4.7-litre and 5.7-litre V8s will remain on offer for those who need the towing ability. Word is the next Grand Cherokee will be able to tote up to 3600kg.

There's also the chance that the 5.7-litre V8 hybrid powertrain developed in conjunction with BMW and General Motors, and seen on Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango hybrids, could also be on offer.

The Grand Cherokee forms part of a line-up of four near-term models Chrysler LLC is expecting to hold up its short-term viability. In addition to the Jeep, the Chrysler 300C, Dodge Charger and Dodge Durango SUV are considered crucial to the company's hopes over the next two years.

The new Grand Cherokee, if all works out for Chrysler, will appear in the flesh at April's New York Auto Show for a planned introduction in 2010 after the first production models start rolling off the production line at the company's Jefferson North plant in Detroit.

All things being equal, the next generation Jeep Grand Cherokee indicates that the vestiges of the now-defunct DaimlerChrysler venture will continue to be apparent for many years to come.