Jeep improves Grand Cherokee fuel-efficient with Phoenix V-6
September 17, 2008
By Benson Kong
Photography by the Manufacturer
As Chrysler prepares itself for the future with the shifting market demand for more environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles, the next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee will use a new V-6 engine, dubbed the Phoenix, with cylinder-deactivation technology. Additionally, the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have a carlike unibody construction for a more compact design.
The Phoenix V-6 can shut down three cylinders when under low loads, reportedly saving 6% to 8% in fuel consumption, while also saving on emissions. Chrysler is hoping to create a vehicle that's more appealing to the mainstream public with a more pump-friendly SUV that offers better around-town handling thanks to the unibody construction. The platform for the new Grand Cherokee was jointly developed with Mercedes-Benz and will be used for future yet-to-be revealed models.
To prepare for the next-generation Grand Cherokee, Chrysler plans to push more than $1.8 billion to retool its Jefferson assembly plant in North Detroit. Funds for expansion and retooling of the Jefferson plant will be backed by sales of Chrysler's non-earning assets, such as land around its headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and its Tritec engine plant in Brazil. Chrysler is looking to liquidate up to $1 billion in assets.
Source: Motor Authority