• Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 coming late 2006
• Jeep Commander coming mid-2006

Jeep is planning an even greater presence in Australia this year with the company today confirming two all-new models for 2006; the high performance Grand Cherokee SRT-8 – one of the fastest four-wheel drives in the world, and the seven-seat Jeep Commander.

The addition of the seven-seat Jeep Commander and the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8, arriving mid-year and in the fourth quarter respectively, will build on record sales in 2005 and grow the brand’s stable to four model line-ups in Australia, joining the iconic Wrangler, the mid-sized Cherokee and flagship Grand Cherokee.

“The addition of the Grand Cherokee SRT-8 and the Jeep Commander, will make our 2006 model range our most competitive ever and will take our brand to even more customers,” said Gerry Jenkins, managing director, Chrysler Group Australia.

“The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 is the quickest, most powerful Jeep vehicle ever."

“Jeep vehicles are known worldwide for their capability, utility and distinctive style."

“The Grand Cherokee SRT-8 marries those qualities with Street and Racing Technology’s (SRT) balanced approach to performance, to create a vehicle that will leave in its dust competitors that cost twice as much."

“The Jeep Commander also broadens the brand’s appeal. Our customer’s and dealer’s have long been requesting a seven-seater Jeep and the Commander is the perfect solution."

“The Commander has a unique look, which is increasingly important in today’s crowded marketplace, allowing customers to differentiate themselves from the sea of sameness."

“It has been deliberately designed to hark back to the rugged look of the original Cherokee that so many people love,” said Jenkins.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8

The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 is powered by a 6.1-litre Hemi V8 producing 313 kW and 569 Nm.

Chrysler/Jeep maintain the SRT-8 has the power to outperform the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, claiming the Grand Cherokee SRT-8 provides exceptional ride and handling, world-class braking, race-inspired interior appointments and functional, performance-oriented exterior enhancements. Many will have trouble digesting these ambitious claims.

The Grand Cherokee SRT-8 features a specially developed full-time four-wheel drive system that channels 90 per cent of power to the rear wheels. If sensors detect rear wheel spin, torque will then be sent to the front wheels to increase traction. A reprogrammed traction control system, 20-inch wheels and an SRT sports-tuned suspension all help provide what Chrysler/Jeep cliaim as "outstanding ride and handling."

Developed by Chrysler’s ‘Street and Race Technology’ performance division, the Grand Cherokee SRT-8 will become the third SRT badged Chrysler Group vehicle sold in Australia, joining the Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6, on sale in Australia since mid 2005, and the Chrysler 300C SRT-8 which is due to arrive mid year.

All SRT vehicles feature powerful engines, unique exterior details, sports suspension and a sports interior.

Jeep Commander

Although the new Jeep Commander shares the same four-wheel drive system, suspension and powertrains as the Grand Cherokee, it is a very different vehicle.

The Commander is designed to accommodate seven people with three rows of seats arranged theatre-style, while the interior materials and design are different to that found on the Grand Cherokee.

Even whilst accommodating extra passengers, the Commander is only five centimetres longer than the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee, for a nimble drive and responsive handling.

Australian pricing for these models is yet to be confirmed.

2006 Jeep Commander

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