New for the 2009 model year, Jeep Grand Cherokee features a new 5.7-liter HEMI, which provides better fuel economy, improved idle quality and overall refinement. With 357 horsepower (266 kW) and 389 lb.-ft. (527 N*m) of torque, this new HEMI engine also delivers an 8.2 percent increase in horsepower and a 3.7 percent increase in torque compared with the previous generation engine. The HEMI's new Variable Valve Timing (VVT) improves fuel economy in two ways. First, it reduces the engine's pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event, which allows more work to be transferred to the crankshaft instead of being rejected out of the exhaust port as heat. Essentially, VVT improves engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.
INTERIOR
• Instrument panel upgrades to include Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) System
• New 9-inch rear DVD screen replaces 8-inch screen
• iPod interface available with uconnect gps
• Laredo model features a standard soft-touch center armrest cover, leather-wrapped park brake handle, floor mats, interior chrome door handles and audio control buttons
POWERTRAIN/CHASSIS
• New 5.7-liter HEMI engine