Random thoughts: The Frankenstein car age

Random thoughts: The Frankenstein car age

BY the mid 90’s, MPV’s and SUV’s had taken the world by surprise, forcing even moderate companies such as Mercedes and Porsche to succumb in the temptation of presenting a proposal to meet their car lusting consumers needs.

So what if an MPV owner used his car’s seven seats less frequent than a pig takes a bath. Who cares if the most difficult obstacle that a 21’’ rim SUV will pass is the pavement of its owner’s front yard. All that matters is the feeling of uniqueness that these vehicles give to their owners. However, fashion brings sales and sales, saturation.

So now, people think: “Is it worth giving up good road manners and mild consumption for, limited or even worse, zero, exploitation of my SUV’s or MPV’s capabilities? From the moment that sales eliminated the image factor, the answer is NO.

The automobile world has taken the message and its getting ready for the future with a new bread of models. Following the example of geneticists, car industries found the answer in mixing various car-DNA characteristics in order to create myriads of subcategories that promise to satisfy consumers most boldest dreams with the least possible compromises.

The latest example of this category-mixing up philosophy is the European Ford S-MAX with DNA from MPV and hot hatchbacks. Ooh and don’t forget the American Jeep Patriot and Compass models that supplement the Cherokee in Jeep’s triad (!) of compact SUV’s. One is more stylish, one is more capable off road and the other is … well, I believe even they don’t know what the heck it is.

As this is just the dawn of the Frankenstein car age, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if I saw BMW for example, bringing its Z18 concept to life, adding a pint of MPV versatility and a electric folding metal roof top, thus creating the worlds first coupe-cabrio -MPV –SUV called the ZXM 4…But wait, didn’t Chevrolet sort of beat them to that with the "highly succesful" SSR...?

Don’t know about you, but seems to me that car manufactures are trying to make something like a horseradish flavoured, pink coloured, square watermelon…

2006 SEMA Show: Jeep Patriot

Built by Chrysler Tech Center Vehicle Build Shops, the SEMA Show Patriot features a custom roof rack with auxiliary lights and a custom steel bumper which, according to Jeep, is designed to protect the front end while allowing for as much tire exposure as possible. Talking about rubber, this Partiot gets 31" BFG Mud Terrain tires on 16'' Jeep Moab rims supplied by Prime Wheel which actually look quite good on it. Finally, there's a custom suspension which provides over 11'' of ground clearance.

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee coming to New York Show

In a nutshell the revised Grand Cherokee features subtle exterior and interior styling tweaks like the stretched grille and the new headlamps with circular shapes on the outside and the updated instrument cluster in the inside, a new 4.7-liter V8 delivering 291Hp (from 235Hp) and a multimedia infotainment system that includes backseat satellite TV. You can check out the full press release by clicking “Read More” below.

PRESS RELEASE: All-new Engine, Refreshed Interior and Exterior and More Premium Amenities for 2008 Jeep® Grand Cherokee

• All-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine delivers increased horsepower and torque, improved fuel economy
• Refreshed exterior and interior design stays true to its authentic Jeep® character with signature seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel openings and attention to rich details and craftsmanship
• Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with all-new SIRIUS Backseat TV™
• Even more innovative, premium amenities are available, including MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System, HID auto-leveling headlamps and heated first- and second-row seats

The Jeep® brand unveiled today the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee that features an all-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine that delivers a 24 percent increase in horsepower, a 6 percent increase in torque and improved fuel economy compared with the engine it replaces. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers a refreshed interior and exterior design and a host of innovative premium amenities, including one not found on other full-size sport-utility vehicles (SUV) on the road today -- SIRIUS Backseat TV™. The vehicle will arrive at Jeep dealerships starting this fall.

"With a choice of five engines, three four-wheel-drive systems and more premium amenities than ever before, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee sets the benchmark for full-size SUVs just as it did when it debuted in 1992," said John Plecha, Director -- Jeep Brand Marketing and Global Communications. "Now available with SIRIUS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee just made road trips or short trips with kids even more enjoyable."

Only Full-Size SUV with Five Engine Offerings

The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the only vehicle with a choice of five engine offerings:

• Award-winning 3.0-liter common rail diesel V-6 engine – Now available on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited and Overland
• 3.7-liter V-6 engine – Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
• All-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine – Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
• 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI® engine – Available on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, standard on Overland
• 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine – Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

All-new for 2008 is the 4.7-liter V-8 engine that offers better fuel economy, power and torque than the previous 4.7-liter engine, while at the same time delivering improvements in refinement.

The new 4.7-liter V-8 incorporates two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 291 horsepower (217kW), a 24 percent increase, and 322 lb.-ft. of torque (437 Nm), a 6 percent increase over the previous 4.7-liter V-8 engine. And, like the engine it replaces, the new 4.7-liter V-8 engine is flex-fuel capable, which gives customers the ability to use up to an 85 percent concentration of ethanol (E85) to fuel their vehicles.

Improvements in the new 4.7-liter V-8 result from significant revisions to the induction system, a lightweight piston/rod assembly and reduced accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. Engine smoothness at idle is enhanced with a new cam design, two spark plugs per cylinder and a valve-lash adjuster system. The new 4.7-liter V-8 also is equipped with electronic throttle control.

First to Offer All-new SIRIUS Backseat TV

The Chrysler Group will be the first and only auto manufacturer to offer SIRIUS Backseat TV in its 2008 model year vehicle lineup, including the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

SIRIUS Backseat TV features three channels of respected children's TV featuring many of the most well-known kids' programming, including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. Rear-seat passengers will be able to watch shows such as Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants," Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana" and Cartoon Network's "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends."

SIRIUS Backseat TV operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle's second-row (except minivan: second- and/or third-row) video screen, and channel name, program title and rating will be broadcast and displayed on the screen. For added flexibility, rear-seat passengers can enjoy SIRIUS Backseat TV while front-seat occupants listen to SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit. In addition, when the vehicle is in park, programming can be displayed on the MyGIG screen for front-seat viewing.

Innovative Premium Amenities

Along with SIRIUS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes a variety of premium amenities that are new for 2008, including the new MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System that has a built-in navigation, audio, entertainment and communication system. MyGIG enables customers to use touch-screen or voice commands to control all of the features, and includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive where music and photos can be stored. There's space reserved on the hard drive for approximately 1,600 songs; that's over 100 hours of music. There also is a voice-memo recorder feature. MyGIG supports real-time traffic information, available through SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and can provide an alternate drive route based on current traffic.

Also new on the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee are high-intensity discharge (HID) auto-leveling headlamps. HID auto-leveling headlamps provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination. The auto-leveling feature automatically adjusts the headlamps to the vehicle pitch depending on the load and number of passengers in the vehicle. This feature also benefits oncoming traffic as the system prevents drivers from being distracted by glare from the headlamps. The auto-leveling feature is only available with HID headlamps.

ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera (with or without navigation), ParkSense® Rear Back-up System, SmartBeam® headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, iPod connectivity and 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels also are part of the vehicle's available features and options.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee also features three new safety and security technologies for 2008: Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control. Hill Descent Control (HDC) is standard on Grand Cherokee 4x4 models. Operational in the "4WD Low" position, HDC provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed. By means of electronic brake control, HDC supplements the gear reduction and engine braking that a traditional mechanical low-range transfer case provides. For ease of operation, Grand Cherokee's HDC is activated and deactivated automatically, after the HDC button is engaged, as the system senses changes in topography. The system works whether the vehicle is in forward or reverse.

The available Hill Start Assist (HSA) allows the driver time to transition from brake to throttle to achieve a smooth launch on a grade. The system will hold brake pressure for two seconds upon the driver's release of the brake pedal. The ABS system decreases wheel pressure in response to increasing throttle to provide a smooth launch. Trailer Sway Control is optional on all Grand Cherokee models. This system reduces trailer sway and provides improved trailer stability and increased towing safety.

Refreshed Exterior and Interior

With its upright and substantial posture, the Jeep Grand Cherokee's design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance. The grille has been lengthened, and the headlamps are more circular for a more dominant and expressive front view. A new HID headlamp, optional on Limited and standard on Overland, includes an internal optic lens for the park/turn function. Fog lamps also have also been lowered for enhanced performance. Off-road enthusiasts will be pleased with the new two-piece front fascia, allowing for the entire lower piece to be removed before hitting the off-road trails.

On the inside, the vehicle's two-tone instrument panel features a new level of refinement with bright accents, a soft-touch surface and updated styling. A new tilt and telescoping steering column is standard, with a new steering wheel that includes bright accent bezels, which house the electronic vehicle information center's switches. The Limited model's steering wheel adds two-tone leather and bright chrome accent rings, and the Overland features a real wood rim for added luxury.

Also new is the updated line of instrument clusters that feature new brighter LED illumination, with the Limited and Overland models receiving a modern and elegant treatment where, when the vehicle is started, the dark-tinted lens fades to reveal chrome-ringed black gauges that are surrounded by a bright silver accent field. The new floor console has improved cup holders and a new leather-wrapped and chrome-accented parking brake handle. The door panels have new armrests for improved ergonomics and comfort. New for the Overland model are the new saddle perforated leather seats that feature accent piping for an even more upscale look.

Bling-Bling: Delta4x4 Accessory Program For the Jeep Grand Cherokee

Bavarian SUV specialist, delta4x4 has created an accessory program for the Jeep’s latest Grand Cherokee. Included in the program is delta4x4’s 5spoke alloys dubbed Romm available in eight various combinations from 18, 20 and 21 inches with prices starting at €1.490 or $2.030. Delta4x4 also offers a hand-polished sidebar (76mm) for the Jeep Grand Cherokee which will cost you another €950 or $1.295.

Chrysler Recalling 80,000 Wranglers and Nitros - One Accident Linked To The Issue

Chrysler Group announced on Tuesday, July 3 that it was recalling more than 80.000 or to be exact, 80.894 2007 Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Nitro SUV models in the States due to a defect that could cause power interruptions leading to a short engine stall. According to the American carmaker, there was one accident linked to the engine stall issue; however, no injuries have been reported. On its behalf, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that it opened an investigation in May after receiving about 180 complaints of engine stalling in Wrangler and Nitro vehicles. As with all recalls, Chrysler Group said that it will notify owners of the vehicles affected in a weeks time with the work completed of course free of charge.

Jeep Wrangler & Wrangler Unlimited Tweaked By Brabus – Startech

20-inch rims & 285/50 rubber? While we find these sorts of mods utterly pointless for a thoroughbred 4x4 we’ll secretly admit to liking Startech’s accessories program, available for both short wheelbase and the long wheelbase Wranglers. Beginning with the wheels, Brabus’ Chrysler Group tuning arm offers polished five-spoke, 20-inch Monostar rims with 285/50 on/off tires.

Exterior-wise, Startech has equipped the Wrangler with tubular side guards (for short and long wheelbase models) to protect the rocker panels and partially hide the Jeep’s frame from view while the spare wheel cover gets a with high-gloss stainless-steel ring. The interior of the Jeep can also be upgraded with highly polished scuff plates and Startech’s own sport steering wheel. Additional customization requests can be fulfilled by the company-own Startech upholstery shop that offers among others, partial and fully leather interiors made from Mastik leather. -Continued after the jump

Startech motor engineers are currently developing the SD 4T tuning module for the 2.8-liter (171 cu. in.) common-rail turbodiesel engine along with new sport exhausts available for all engine and body variants of the Jeep. The fully stainless-steel exhausts feature one characteristic oval chrome tailpipe each on the right and left, and produce a more sonorous engine sound, while at the same time promise to optimize power yield.

Jeep Wrangler Ultimate & JT: 2007 SEMA Concepts

Jeep decided to share with us the first pictures of their upcoming Wrangler based Ultimate & JT concepts both of which will make their public appearance at the 2007 SEMA Show in October. Beginning with the sand-colour JT, the 4x4 pick-up is based on the new Wrangler Unlimited's 116-inch wheelbase platform featuring a 5-foot pickup bed and an easy-to-handle removable hardtop. Its off road capabilities have been enhanced thanks to the 3-inch suspension lift provided by Superlift, the 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires, the Mopar rear bumper & rock rails and an a Ramsey 9500 UT winch.

Coated in an experimental colour dubbed “Liquid Charcoal Pearl Coat”, the Wrangler Unlimited based Ultimate gets the same suspension and tire upgrade as the JT adding a heap of Mopar exterior chrome enhancements (including: fuel filler door, tail lamp guards, tubular side steps, exterior mirrors, tow hooks, door handles, hood hinge & fascia overlays). Jeep also took a shot at the interior adding clad seating surfaces in durable orange mesh fabric and dark slate gray Nappa/Province leather – bound with a heavy black-leather baseball stitch while the instrument panel details are treated to an Argent Pearl/Satin Silver paint combination. -

JEEP WRANGLER JT

JEEP WRANGLER ULTIMATE