Tag Archives: press

Motorsport

Updated Kia K5 And Carnival Confirmed To Debut Later This Year

Tucked away in a press release about global sales results in August is news about what Kia has in store for the remainder of the year. Previously known as the Optima, the K5 midsize sedan will get a mid-cycle update later in 2023, roughly four years after the fifth-generation model was unveiled. We’ll also be seeing a facelift for the Carnival minivan, even though the fourth-gen family hauler made its debut in June 2020.

The updated K5 is rumored to receive a curved dual-screen setup akin to the latest K8 while the Carnival is said to get a hybrid powertrain but nothing is official yet. The MPV could get the same screen layout, along with additional equipment on top of the already generous amenities.


Cars

Ranking of Every Ford EcoBoost Engine, From Worst to Best

In 2008, Ford announced the launch of its EcoBoost engine line-up, starting with the 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine. The debut was made in the 2009 Lincoln MKS, offering the power of a V8 engine with the fuel efficiency of a V6.

In 2015, a new version of the EcoBoost engine was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show, powering the 2017 Ford GT supercar. The previous Ford GT, released in 2005, had a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine that produced 500 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. In contrast, the 2017 GT, equipped with a smaller 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine, delivered an impressive 647 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque.

Currently, a range of models use the “Cyclone” engine, including the F-150, which offers a standard EcoBoost version with 400 horsepower, 500 pound-feet of torque, and a towing capacity of 14,000 pounds. Additionally, the Raptor variant provides a High Output option with 50 more horses and 10 more pound-feet of torque.

Although the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine has proven to perform well in various applications, it’s important to note some issues encountered. The first generation “Cyclone” engines had common timing chain problems. While Ford resolved these issues in the second-generation engine, the new engines experienced a noisy rattle caused by cam phasers during the initial three years of their existence.

Motorsport

See The Porsche 911 Dakar Go Full Speed on the Autobahn

Last year, the Porsche 911 Dakar made its debut and garnered a lot of attention from the automotive press, including us, and for good reason.

Taking inspiration from the two-door models of the 1980s that participated in the iconic African rally raid with the same name, the 911 Dakar is Porsche’s response to the countless coachbuilders, tuners, and retrofitters who have gained recognition by raising the ride height and increasing the power of standard 911s, among other modifications.

Based on the 911 Carrera GTS, it features all-wheel drive, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine producing 473 horsepower, and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This powerhouse combination allows the 911 Dakar to achieve a 0 to 60 mph acceleration in just 3.2 seconds.


NewsNew

RIDING THE 2024 GASGAS MX & OFF-ROAD BIKES: THE WRAP

GasGas introduced its new lineup for 2024 in a unique way. Instead of hosting a private event for the press, the company opened its doors to the public. They organized the GasGas Spice It Up Festival at Crossodroma La Trogna in Castello, Italy. This event was different from anything seen in the U.S., with technical seminars, bike displays, music, food, and the opportunity for the public to interact with GasGas factory riders like Justin Barcia and Taddy Blazusiak. People had the chance to ride any of the 2024 models they signed up for. The event was free but quickly reached capacity.

I got to ride the EX450F while someone shot photos of me for a change. Photo courtesy GasGas.

Despite my jet lag, I thoroughly enjoyed the event. Although the bikes were new to GasGas, we had an idea of what to expect based on the models from its sister brands, KTM and Husqvarna. The motocross lineup for 2023 includes the MC450F, MC350F, and MC250F. In terms of two-stroke motocrossers, there are the MC250 and MC125. The MC85, MC65, and MC50 have yet to be revealed but will be soon. All full-size bikes feature a new chassis, and most of the engines are new as well, except for the MC450F which carries over some existing engine designs. The off-road four-strokes include the green-sticker eligible EW500F and the non-certified EC450F. The two-stroke off-road bikes consist of the EC300 trail bike, EX300 cross country, and EX250 models. Additionally, GasGas offers two dual-sport bikes: the ES500S and ES350s.

Gary Sutherlin on the EX450F.

GasGas models have several equipment differences compared to KTM models. All GasGas bikes come with Braktec hydraulic systems for the brakes and clutches. Most models do not have a map switch, except for the MC125. The exhaust headpipe for most models does not have a resonance chamber, except for the MC250F.

Justin Barcia was riding again and looking good in Italy.

During the event, I primarily rode the GasGas EX450F and enjoyed it. You can watch the EX450 video here. I would like to extend a big thank you to Gary Sutherlin for helping with the photo shoot. The full story will be featured in the October 2023 issue of Dirt Bike magazine.

LARRY WARD AND THE NOLEEN SIZZLER

Larry Ward’s privateer YZ250 from 1995.

Privateers have had a successful year in the 2023 outdoor series, but they still have a long way to go to match what Larry Ward accomplished in the 1995 Supercross series. Clark Jones at Noleen put together a remarkable effort, using a few parts from Yamaha and support from Sizzler, to help Larry secure second place in the points that year. Considering Jeremy McGrath’s dominance, this achievement was like winning. Although Ward didn’t win any mains, he finished on the podium seven times, usually behind McGrath.

Larry Ward at Sunrise Cycle park for Dirt Bike in 1995.

The YZ250 that Ward rode didn’t have works suspension or a factory cylinder. Noleen made modifications to every aspect of the bike. We featured Larry’s bike in the July 1995 issue of Dirt Bike magazine, and our test riders, including Jim Holley, were impressed. Jim said, “I’d race this thing. It has a good controllable hit, and the suspension is well set up for me. The rear end works great, the bike hooks up better than my YZ, and the power lets me clear doubles from the inside line.”

Jim Holley helping test the Noleen bike.
Larry Ward was the top privateer in Supercross in 1995. Maybe the top privateer in Supercross ever.

CAN-AM LEGACY

Gary Jones (1), Marty Tripes (2) and Jimmy Ellis (3) were the murderer’s row at Can-Am in 1974.

Can-Am is finally recognizing its two-wheel heritage. With the upcoming launch of a new electric motorcycle line, Bombardier, the parent company of Can-Am, realized the success the company had in motorcycle racing during the ’70s. This includes a National Motocross Championship with Gary Jones and two Supercross Championships with Jimmy Ellis. Can-Am released several videos showcasing the Can-Am motorcycle era of the ’70s, which can be viewed here.

RM ARMY BOOT CAMP #3

Ken Roczen, the reigning World Supercross Champion, is scheduled to be on hand at Ironman Raceway.

Suzuki Motor USA and the Pipes Motorsports Group have announced the third RM Army Boot Camp event for riders of Suzuki RM and RM-Z motocross bikes. This event will take place on Friday, August 25th at Ironman Raceway in Crawfordsville, IN. The RM Army Boot Camp allows Suzuki RM and RM-Z owners to interact with Suzuki racers at select MX tracks across the country. The one-day event includes MX track ride sessions, bike setup coaching, tech tips from Supercross racing team technicians and pro riders from the Pipes Motorsports Group, a Suzuki product display, and food and refreshments. Attendees will also receive exclusive RM Army Boot Camp gear as a memento of their day at the track. The previous RM Army Boot Camp events have been successful, and the fourth event in the series is generating excitement. Suzuki RM and RM-Z owners are encouraged to attend these complimentary events to connect with Suzuki athletes like Ken Roczen, Freddie Noren, Kyle Chisolm, and Marshal Weltin. To register for the event, Suzuki owners can visit SuzukiCycles.com/Racing/RM-Army-Boot-Camp.

That’s all for now!

–Ron Lawson
Motorsport

Lamborghini Confirms Electric 2+2 Grand Tourer For 2028 Debut

Lamborghini has confirmed that it will release its first-ever electric car in 2028. The electric vehicle (EV) will be a practical 2+2 grand tourer, offering a more daily usable option compared to Lamborghini’s sports cars. Although additional details are not yet available, CEO Stephan Winkelmann has hinted that the EV will have more ground clearance than Lamborghini’s sports cars, but less than the Urus SUV. The car will not be a crossover.

Lamborghini EV

Although specific technical specifications for the EV have not been revealed, Winkelmann has mentioned that it will not be based on an all-Lamborghini platform. Instead, the EV will benefit from the synergies of the Volkswagen Group, similar to the relationship between the Urus and other Volkswagen Group vehicles such as the Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7/Q8, and VW Touareg.

The release of the electric 2+2 grand tourer will follow the launch of the Urus S/Performante and the replacement for the Huracan, both of which will feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain in 2024. Lamborghini’s flagship model, the Reveulto, already has a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) setup with a new V12 engine. The Urus successor, set to be released in 2029, will be an EV. This plan was confirmed by Lamborghini’s CEO in an interview.

For now, order books for the Huracan and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) Urus have been closed since all available production has been sold. The next model after the Huracan will not have an Audi counterpart, as the R8 will be discontinued without a direct replacement. Lamborghini has emphasized that it is financially capable of developing new supercars without assistance.

NewsNew

Introducing FTA Moto Gear by FXR

Press Release: FXR has launched a new moto apparel brand called FTA, which incorporates FXR’s trusted platforms, materials, and quality. The brand aims to inspire and connect with riders who want to stand out from the crowd. FTA embodies the excitement of adrenaline, speed, riding, and racing. It celebrates the thrill of speed, conquering challenges, and achieving the perfect ride. FTA represents the art of maximizing power, suspension setup, and balance. It combines creative vision, passion, inspiration, and a strong connection with the rider. FTA is all about embracing risk and pushing the limits. If you identify with these values, welcome to your new apparel brand.

Check out FTA Moto Gear by FXR here

FTA STYLZ JERSEY:

  • High-performance fabric with vented mesh side body panels for increased breathability and airflow
  • Ultra-light main body fabric that wicks away moisture, keeping you cool
  • Athletic fit for maximum comfort
  • Bonded sleeve cuffs to reduce friction
  • Fade-free sublimation prints
  • Available in Youth Sizing

FTA STYLZ PANT:

  • High-performance Omni Stretch™ fabric for unparalleled mobility and strength
  • Reinforced rear seat construction for added durability without sacrificing performance
  • Metal ratchet waist closure system for a precise and secure fit
  • Slim knee design with pre-curve for less fabric restriction and optimal contact area
  • Dual layer knee fabric with full grain leather and abrasion-resistant inner fabric
  • Updated silicone printed inner elastic waist for extra grip and security
  • Removed internal mesh liner for improved breathability and comfort
  • Available in Youth Sizing

FTA STYLZ FLO JERSEY:

  • Ultra-light Hi-Flow vented fabric for maximum airflow and stretch
  • Slim fit design that moves with your body
  • Bonded sleeve cuffs to reduce friction
  • Fade-free sublimation prints
  • Available in Youth Sizing

FTA STYLZ FLO PANT:

  • Hi-Flow vented Omni-Stretch™ fabric for maximum airflow and unmatched mobility
  • Reinforced rear seat construction for added durability without sacrificing performance
  • Metal ratchet waist closure system for a precise and secure fit
  • Slim knee design with pre-curve for less fabric restriction and optimal contact area
  • Dual layer knee fabric with full grain leather and abrasion-resistant inner fabric
  • Updated silicone printed inner elastic waist for extra grip and security
  • Removed internal mesh liner for improved breathability and comfort
  • Available in Youth Sizing
News

This Dodge Ram Do-Not-Drive Warning Shows The Takata Airbag Saga Isn’t Over

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), another death has been attributed to a faulty Takata airbag. This time, it involves the driver of a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck. As a result, a “Do Not Drive” order has been issued for owners of 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 vehicles that haven’t had their airbags fixed. The NHTSA states that 385,686 2003 Dodge Rams were already recalled in 2015, but as many as 84,000 have yet to be repaired.

Unfortunately, this warning for Ram trucks is just one in a long series of recalls related to Takata airbags. These recalls have affected millions of cars from various automotive brands and have been linked to 26 deaths. If your vehicle is part of the Takata recall and hasn’t been repaired, it’s crucial to get it fixed as soon as possible. The repair is free, and driving a vehicle with an unrepaired airbag could be a life-threatening risk.

How to check if your vehicle is affected

Last year, a driver of a 2006 Ford Ranger was killed when a Takata side airbag exploded. The NHTSA emphasizes that even minor accidents that wouldn’t normally trigger airbag deployment can result in a deadly malfunction, particularly in older cars. In a press release, NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson stated, “The older a defective Takata airbag inflator gets, the more dangerous it becomes. Please, get your airbag replaced now for your sake, and for the sake of those who love you.”

The Takata airbag recall has been ongoing for years, and the most recent reported death shows that it is still a concern. General Motors, one of the world’s largest truck manufacturers, had to recall over six million vehicles three years ago due to the same issue that Ram trucks are facing. Therefore, it is highly recommended to check if your vehicle is affected by the recall through the NHTSA’s website and schedule a repair at your car’s dealership.

RollsRoyce

ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE: THE ROLLS-ROYCE THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING

This Press Kit provides an overview of Spectre, its design philosophy and position within the Rolls-Royce product portfolio. The original launch press release is available on Press Club , where you can also find pre-launch information about Rolls-Royce’s electric experimental models and heritage.

Background

In 1900, motoring pioneer The Hon Charles Stewart Rolls made a prediction in a magazine article about the potential of electric cars. He believed that they would be quiet, clean, and useful with fixed charging stations. It took over a century, but Rolls-Royce finally realized his vision with the launch of Spectre, the first fully-electric Rolls-Royce. Spectre represents a monumental shift for the brand, as Rolls-Royce aims to have its entire product lineup fully electric by 2030.

Spectre is an ultra-luxury electric super coupé, combining the signature Rolls-Royce experience with instant torque, silent running, and seamless gear shifting. It features a ‘Decentralized Intelligence’ system that enables exchange of information between vehicle functions, enhancing the renowned ‘magic carpet ride’. With its contemporary design and bespoke capabilities, Spectre ushers Rolls-Royce into a new, electric age.

Spectre Philosophy and Positioning

Spectre is the Rolls-Royce that changes everything – the world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé, ushering in the marque’s bold new all-electric future. It offers no compromises in terms of interior space, comfort, performance, or ride quality. Spectre is the spiritual successor to the Phantom Coupé with its visually striking design and bespoke personalization options.

Spectre clients appreciate fine materials, craftsmanship, and minimalist design. They often embrace sustainability and authenticity, reflecting their individual personalities and values. As a luxury icon, Spectre symbolizes their achievements and aspirations.

Engineering

Spectre represents Rolls-Royce 3.0 – the next generation of Rolls-Royce engineering. It is built on the all-aluminium Architecture of Luxury platform, specifically designed to accommodate an electric powertrain. The spaceframe structure offers exceptional stiffness and incorporates the battery for added acoustic insulation.

With its all-electric drivetrain, Spectre is powered by two Separately Excited Synchronous Motors (SSMs) producing a combined output equivalent to an internal combustion engine with impressive acceleration. It offers a range of 530km (329 miles) and fast charging capabilities.

Spectre features advanced technologies, including active lane centring, adaptive cruise control, and a sophisticated suspension system that ensures a smooth and stable ride. The digital architecture, known as Decentralized Intelligence, processes data closer to its source, enabling faster responses to driver inputs and changing road conditions.

Inside the cabin, Spectre offers technologically advanced bespoke features, such as Starlight Doors with illuminated ‘stars’, an illuminated fascia, and personalized seat designs. The exterior design draws inspiration from diverse sources, resulting in a sleek and aerodynamic profile.

Overall, Spectre represents a bold leap forward for Rolls-Royce, combining its legendary craftsmanship with cutting-edge electric technology.

Executive Quotes

“Spectre possesses all the qualities that have secured the Rolls-Royce legend. This incredible motor car, conceived from the very beginning as our first fully-electric model, is silent, powerful and demonstrates how perfectly Rolls-Royce is suited to electrification. Spectre’s all-electric powertrain will assure the marque’s sustained success and relevance while dramatically increasing the definition of each characteristic that makes a Rolls-Royce a Rolls-Royce.” – Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

“It is a highlight of my professional life to have developed Rolls-Royce Spectre, the car which propels Rolls-Royce into its bold, electric future. Such a remarkable car requires a remarkable testing programme, and I am enormously proud that Spectre has now completed what has been the most arduous schedule ever conceived for a Rolls-Royce motor car. Rolls-Royce Spectre brings the future of this great marque into the present.” – Dr. Mihiar Ayoubi, Director of Engineering, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

“We have designed Spectre as a true Rolls-Royce, with a strikingly modern yet timeless aesthetic, which brings our marque’s design language and Bespoke capabilities into a new, electric era. Spectre’s interior wraps itself around those inside the car, whilst enchanting Bespoke features surprise and delight, showcasing the very outstanding skill and artistry of our world-renowned designers and craftspeople.” – Anders Warming, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

“The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration. They should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged.” – The Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls, Co-Founder, Rolls-Royce, 1900

NewsNew

YAMAHA TO QUIT BUILDING SNOWMOBILES

Yamaha’s European press agency announced today that the company plans to exit the snowmobile market worldwide. The official press release is as follows:



YMC Building

Yamaha Motor has announced its plans to eventually withdraw from the snowmobile business. The company intends to stop selling snowmobiles in Japan by the 2022 model year, in Europe by the 2024 model year, and in North America by the 2025 model year.

1. History of the Business and Reasons for Withdrawal

In 1968, Yamaha introduced its first snowmobile, the SL350, using small engine technology developed in the motorcycle business. Over the past 55 years, Yamaha has developed snowmobiles for various purposes, including sports, leisure, and transportation in snowy areas of North America and Europe. Yamaha has also focused on environmentally-friendly 4-stroke models and partnerships with other companies to expand the business. However, the company has concluded that maintaining a sustainable business in the snowmobile market will be challenging. Yamaha will now concentrate its management resources on current business activities and new growth markets.

2. Future Actions

Yamaha will ensure that parts availability, service, and customer satisfaction related to snowmobiles are maintained even after the final production run of snowmobiles.

Production of the newly introduced 2024 models is already underway and scheduled for delivery in the fall. Yamaha distributors will collaborate closely with dealers to minimize the impact and optimize their business over the next 12 to 36 months.

3. Impact on Business Performance

The outlined schedule for exiting the snowmobile market will have a minor effect on Yamaha’s consolidated business results.

Yamaha sincerely thanks and values its snowmobile dealers and customers worldwide for their passionate support and shared enjoyment of this special winter activity.

*The Japanese market currently continues to sell only in stock

JeepUk

All-new Jeep® Grand Cherokee – Specification and Pricing

  • All-new Jeep® Grand Cherokee unveiled to international press in Spain
  • The Grand Cherokee will be offered as a Plug-in Hybrid only, entering the LEV (luxury electric vehicle) category as one of the most technologically advanced, 4×4-capable and refined UVs ever
  • Available to order now in the UK in a wide range of trims from £69,915 OTR, with first customer deliveries from Q3 2023
  • Unrivalled capability along with composed on-road driving dynamics courtesy of two 4×4 systems – Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II
  • Uconnect™ 5 offers new technology, including a 10.1-inch display, a 10.25-inch full digital cluster with five-times-faster operating speed and over-the-air (OTA) updates plus a 10.25-inch passenger screen and a 10.25-inch windscreen heads-up display
  • An important step in Jeep’s roadmap to full electric. Its 4xe technology enhances fun, freedom and adventure while providing top performance, capability, fuel economy and eco-friendliness
  • Southern Spain was also the ideal setting to test the full Jeep 4xe line-up – Wrangler, Renegade, Compass, Grand Cherokee

 

Introducing the all-new Grand Cherokee and the full Jeep 4xe line-up, Eric Laforge, Head of Jeep® Brand in Europe, said: “Today we further extend our offer with the flagship Grand Cherokee. We are talking about a fifth-generation icon: the first to bring to the road the idea of a “Premium 4×4” in 1992, and the most awarded utility vehicle ever. Grand Cherokee, which will be offered in Plug-in Hybrid version only, enters the LEV category as one of the most technologically-advanced, 4×4-capable and refined utility vehicles ever. Its 4xe technology enhances fun, freedom and adventure while providing top performance, capability, fuel economy and eco-friendliness. It represents an important step in our roadmap to full electric.”

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee breaks new ground with exceptional performance, comfort and functionality and has been designed and engineered to deliver even more of what has made this Jeep SUV a true global icon in the premium SUV segment.

•         More eco-friendly powertrain with outstanding performances – with 4xe (PHEV) technology delivering up to 31 miles in in full electric mode and a combined driving range of up to 434 miles, this is the most 4×4-capable and sustainable Grand Cherokee yet and a further sign of the Jeep brand’s commitment to “Zero Emission Freedom”. No compromise on performance with 0-62 mph acceleration in 6.3 seconds.

•         More legendary capability – the most 4×4-capable Grand Cherokee ever, the new Trailhawk 4xe has conquered the Rubicon Trail in California in full-electric operation; new class-exclusive sway bar disconnect allows for improved articulation and traction over rocks and rough terrain

•         More technology – Uconnect™ 5 with a segment-first front passenger screen, new high-definition rear-seat entertainment system and Active Driving Assist

•         More space and versatility – the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe offers enhanced levels of comfort and spaciousness, including accommodating a set of golf clubs transversely in the boot

•         More innovative features – with all-new architecture, all-new exterior design, all-new interior with front passenger screen and independent front and rear suspensions with class-exclusive Quadra-Lift air suspension with electronic semi-active damping

•         More world-class craftsmanship – the range includes the Summit Reserve trim with Palermo leather interior, real wood interiors, and 950-watt, 19-speaker McIntosh audio system

•         More safety – with more than 110 advanced safety and security features, including Active Driving Assist with hands-on L2 autonomous driving, plus 360-degree surround view and Night Vision cameras

Available in a wide range of trims

The New Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is available in Limited, Trailhawk, Overland and Summit Reserve trims in the UK. Available to order now with customer deliveries commencing in Q3 2023:

  • Limited (from £69,915 OTR) – Grand Cherokee is its purest form. The ideal business solution. Equipped with the latest in safety, the interior hosts premium wrapped seats and a 10.25-inch digital TFT cluster, plus the 10-inch Radio Nav.
  • Trailhawk (from £73,915 OTR) – Uncompromised capability, as only Jeep can. Trailhawk comes standard with industry-leading off-road systems and features among which 18-inch wheels with All Terrain tires, front disconnect sway bar and skid plates.
  • Overland (from £75,915 OTR)  – the best of both worlds, Overland features premium comfort and authentic Jeep capability.
  • Summit Reserve (from £85,615 OTR) – the flagship of the entire Jeep line-up in terms of technology and refinement. The upper echelon of Grand Cherokee, the Summit Reserve stands tall on 21-inch Polished wheels and hosts an interior that offers unmatched comfort. Palermo leather seats, real walnut wood accents, 19 speaker Mcintosh Sound system and the segment-exclusive 10-inch Passenger display, along with countless other exceptional standard features make it without equal.

 

First-ever Grand Cherokee 4xe PHEV

The all-New Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe combines an advanced turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, two high voltage electric motors, robust TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission and proven Jeep 4×4 systems, resulting in 380 hp and 637 Nm of torque. Specifically, the 400-volt battery pack is made of 96-cell lithium-ion and ensures up to 31 miles of all-electric combined rang, and a total range of up to 434 miles.

 

The hybrid powertrain can be tailored to suit each trip, from daily commuting in pure-electric mode to no range anxiety for extended motorway trips, and allowing owners to explore nature off-road in near silence in EV mode. Different EV drive modes are available:

  • Hybrid Mode: This is the default mode. Hybrid mode blends torque from the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and electric motors. In this mode the powertrain will use HV battery power first, adding power from the 2.0-litre turbocharged I-4 to maximize responsiveness. When the battery is depleted, the vehicle seamlessly transitions to conventional hybrid electric vehicle operation.
  • Electric Mode: When the high voltage battery has sufficient State of Charge, the powertrain can operate on zero-emission electric power up to motorway speeds. In this mode, the engine will only turn on when the driver requests maximum power. When the battery becomes depleted, the vehicle will automatically revert to Hybrid mode.
  • eSave Mode: This mode prioritises propulsion from the 2.0-litre engine, saving the battery charge for later use such as EV off-roading or urban areas where internal combustion propulsion may be restricted. The engine will be shut off when power demand is low, for example when the vehicle is stationary, or when coasting.
  • Regenerative braking: whenever the vehicle is decelerating, the system first uses the available regenerative braking (up to 0.25 G) from the electric motors to slow the vehicle and recharge the battery, augmented by the traditional friction brakes when heavy deceleration is required, or when low traction conditions are detected.

 

 

Legendary Jeep 4×4 Capability

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe delivers unrivalled capability along with composed on-road driving dynamics. That legendary off-road capability begins courtesy of two 4×4 systems – Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II with rear electronic limited slip-differential (eLSD). Both systems are equipped with an active transfer case to improve traction by moving torque to work with the wheel with the most grip.

 

The class-exclusive Jeep Quadra-Lift air suspension now with electronic adaptive damping, delivers class-leading ground clearance and water fording. The system automatically adjusts to changing road conditions for enhanced comfort stability and control and delivers up to 27.5 cm of ground clearance and 61 cm of water fording.

 

The class-leading Selec-Terrain™ traction management system lets customers choose the on or off-road setting for optimum 4×4 performance. This feature electronically coordinates 4×4 torque split, braking and handling, steering and suspension systems, throttle control, transmission shift, transfer case, traction control, stability control, anti-lock braking system (ABS) and steering feel.

 

The Selec-Terrain system offers five available terrain modes (Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, Mud/Sand) to provide optimised calibrations for any given driving scenario.

 

New for the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is front axle disconnect. If the vehicle senses that road conditions do not require all-wheel drive, the front-axle disconnect automatically places the Grand Cherokee in two-wheel drive, reducing drag on the driveline and improving fuel economy. Four-wheel drive automatically re-engages when the vehicle senses it is needed.

 

The most luxurious and technologically advanced Grand Cherokee ever

The slim, sculpted exterior of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers a more modern and updated premium appearance and is characterised by a wilder and larger iconic seven-slot grille and new front fascia, all-new premium, full-suite of LED lighting and a gloss black roof. The aerodynamic performance and efficiency are improved thanks to a lowered, tapered roof, thus without sacrificing cargo spaciousness and utility, while the lowered beltline and expansive glass allow more light into the cabin and increase outward visibility.

 

The all-new generous interior features handcrafted materials, class-leading rear-seat legroom and increased visibility. With such luxurious features and technology, the Grand Cherokee offers the possibility to take advantage of increased comfort, in particular by using the My Navigation connected service. If it is relevant to benefit from driving assistance when travelling by having a map that updates automatically via the Internet, to avoid congested roads.

 

Futhermore, the new fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe has the most extensive technology features in its history. The suite of features includes:

  • Uconnect™ 5 – the most advanced Uconnect system ever offers three 10.1-inch digital displays
  • 10.1-inch full digital and customisable instrument cluster
  • New 10-inch full-colour windscreen heads-up display
  • A segment-exclusive interactive 10.25-inch front passenger screen offers co-pilot assistance with navigation, camera viewing and visual entertainment
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • New digital rearview mirror

 

The new Uconnect™ Services suite allows numerous vehicle functions to be controlled remotely and conveniently. Thanks to Uconnect™ Services, it is possible, for example, to ask Amazon Alexa the vehicle’s location, search for a point of interest and send the address directly to the car, all from the comfort of home. In addition, while driving you can talk to Alexa Voice Service, ask about the weather, manage home automation, play music, and more. (Compatible smart home device required and sold separately). New remote control modes, including Jeep Off Road Pages on a mobile app, Eco Score to monitor driving style and more.

 

A new, state-of-the-art McIntosh audio system is standard on the top trims and features 19 custom-designed speakers (including a 25.4cm subwoofer), 950 watts of power and a 17-channel amplifier. The Jeep brand is currently the only automotive manufacturer in the world to carry a McIntosh sound system.

 

In terms of safety, the state-of-the-art Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe ushers in an array of more than 110 advanced safety and security features, including innovative applications of technologies that refine the connection between driver, vehicle and the road.

 

On top of the standard safety features, additional features include:

  • New Night Vision camera with pedestrian and animal detection
  • New Intersection Collision Assist
  • Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist and new Traffic Sign Recognition
  • New 360-degree surround-view camera system with front and rear washers
  • New Active Driving Assist (L2) automated driving is also available

 

Jeep Authentic Accessories by Mopar

Thanks to a wide range of Jeep Authentic Accessories, it is possible to customise the Grand Cherokee even more to further enhance its superior style, functionality, off-road capabilities, comfort, and fun to drive.

 

Customers can choose from accessories that range from exterior and interior features to safety, EV, carriage and electrical.