The 2018 Jeep Wrangler, New Look, New Tech and launched at the LA Motor Show.

The all new Jeep® Wrangler – the most capable SUV ever – makes its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, building on its legendary history with an unmatched combination of off-road capability, authentic Jeep design, open-air freedom, superior on- and off-road dynamics, and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology features.

Even more legendary go-anywhere 4x4 capability

The all-new Jeep Wrangler delivers unmatched off-road capability courtesy of specific technical features including two advanced 4x4 systems, new Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case, Tru-Lock electric front- and rear-axle lockers, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential and the electronic sway-bar disconnect. 

Modern take on authentic Jeep Wrangler design

The Wrangler's unique exterior design includes an instantly recognizable keystone-shaped grille, iconic round headlamps and square taillamps, improved aerodynamics, a convenient fold-down windshield, even more open-air freedom, and dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations.

The new car’s interior combines authentic styling, precision craftsmanship and high-quality materials that result in improved versatility and comfort for drivers and passengers. 

Advanced technology

The all-new Jeep Wrangler is loaded with more advanced technology features than ever before and offers three new Uconnect systems (Uconnect 5-, 7- and 8.4NAV), delivering communication, entertainment and navigation features. These new, fourth-generation Uconnect systems include a full-colour LED instrument cluster, the choice of 5.0, 7.0- or 8.4-inch touchscreens with pinch-and-zoom capability, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features. Safety and security were paramount in the development of the new generation of Jeep Wrangler, which offers more than 75 available active and passive safety and security features. 

New advanced fuel-efficient powertrains join the Wrangler line-up available in North America including the all-new 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder and the 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V-6 engines mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission.

More information and images of the all-new Wrangler unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show are available on the FCA US media website at the link. Product specifications and detailed timing for the Wrangler in EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) will be available next year, closer to the commercial launch in the EMEA region.

Jeep expands its range of Wrangler 4x4 vehicles with the new limited edition, the Rubicon Recon.

Jeep continues to expand its popular range of Wrangler 4x4 vehicles with the introduction of a stunning new limited edition, the Rubicon Recon.

Revealed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon brings to the most capable production vehicle in the world even greater capability, including more protection from the most severe, rugged off-road terrain. The new special edition model will offer improved 4x4 capability thanks to specific off-road components including a stronger front axle and heavy-duty cast rear differential covers.

Based on the existing Wrangler Rubicon model, the new Recon adds attractive adventure styling to the legendary 4x4 capability and open air freedom, thanks to equipment such as 18-inch Low Gloss Granite Crystal painted aluminium wheels, a black dual top (including both soft and hardtop options), and a dual-vented Power Dome hood with a black-silhouette "Rubicon" decal featuring red accent lettering on both sides. A Trail Rated logo with red accents, a black fuel filler door, and a black hard spare tyre cover complete the package.

A black-and-red theme characterises the inside of the new Wrangler Rubicon Recon. Red accent stitching adorns the standard black leather heated seats with a "Rubicon" embroidered logo. Black vinyl-wrapped front door armrest and console lid with black stitching, red accent netting on front door pockets and the centre console, unique leather-wrapped steering wheel and red accent coloured seatbelts help to distinguish the Recon from the rest of the Wrangler line-up.

The new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon special-edition model comes in two- and four-door specification and is powered by Jeep’s 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine delivering 284 horsepower, matched to the automatic five-speed gearbox. It comes in three exterior colours: Gobi, Bright White, and Granite Crystal.

The new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon will cost £40,505 OTR (two-door) and £42,175 (four-door) when it goes on sale in the UK  from today.

The continued expansion of Ssangyong continues with another new dealership.

• Lowdhams (Nottingham) joins the SsangYong network
• Six model range all backed by a 5-year limitless mileage warranty 

The SsangYong range of 4x4s and SUVs is now available in Nottingham, following the appointment of Lowdhams.

The dealership will operate the SsangYong franchise from its premises at Lowdham Road, Gunthorpe, Nottingham NG14 7ES. 

Welcoming the company to the franchise, Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK said: “We are delighted to welcome Lowdhams to the SsangYong network, and at such an exciting time for the brand. 

“With a six-car portfolio that includes SUVs, 4x4s, a one-tonne pick-up and an MPV, it’s the value-brand that really offers dealers a car for almost every customer. Having added a suite of new safety equipment to Tivoli and Tivoli XLV, a fresh look to Korando, and with the all new D-segment Rexton launching in the UK later this year, there’s so much for dealers to get their teeth into. 

“Lowdhams is the first of several new dealers joining us, and we look forward to making further announcements about other key locations shortly,” said Paul. 

Commented Steve Sharpe, group managing director of Lowdhams, “We are delighted to have been appointed to represent SsangYong and greatly look forward to playing our part in its continuing success. SsangYong has an impressive range, and with very competitive pricing and a 5-year limitless mileage warranty on every car, we believe it will do extremely well in our area.” 

This brings the SsangYong dealer network up to 60, plus 11 authorised SsangYong service centres. 

Jeep launches a new ultra limited edition model of its evergreen Wrangler 4x4.

Jeep is expanding its Wrangler range of 4x4 vehicles with the introduction of a stunning limited edition, the Night Eagle. 

Revealed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the Jeep Wrangler Night Eagle comes in a choice of striking colours with exclusive decals, and provides a unique style, premium equipment levels and, of course, Jeep’s legendary off-road capability. 

Just 66 examples of this special new arrival are bound for the UK – all fitted with Jeep’s 2.8-litre CRD 200hp turbo diesel engine paired to a five speed automatic gearbox. The engine gives the car a 0-62mph time of 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 107mph. The Euro 6 unit can return a combined 31.4mpg and has a 235g/km CO2 figure. 

Legendary Wrangler capability is achieved through the standard Command-Trac part-time, two-speed transfer case with a low-range gear ratio.

Finished in unique Xtreme Purple, Alpine White or Solid Black paint the Night Eagle receives distinctive decals on the bonnet and rear quarter panels, 18-inch mid-gloss black wheels, body-colour grille, mid-gloss black colour accents, headlamp rings and Jeep badge, body colour dual top, black fuel filler door, deep tint sunscreen glass and hard spare tyre cover. 

Inside, the new Night Eagle features standard black McKinley leather seats with black sport mesh fabric inserts and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with Diesel Gray accent stitching. A black vinyl-wrapped console lid and front door armrest with Diesel Gray accent stitching, Piano Black grab handle and vent ring bezels, and All-Weather slush mats complete the distinctive interior to this special edition model. 

The full standard equipment creates a comfortable, high-tech driving environment which includes the nine-speaker Alpine Premium Audio System with subwoofer and the Uconnect Navigation system with CD/DVD/MP3, 6.5-inches touchscreen, AUX and USB ports. 

The new Jeep Wrangler Night Eagle will cost £39,810 OTR when it goes on sale in the UK this week.

Jeep sponsors the Tough Mudder event for the 4th year and launches a limited Edition to celebrate this sponsorship.

• 100 limited edition Jeep Renegade Tough Mudder vehicles go on sale today across the UK
• Renegade takes on world’s first ‘Tough Mudder for Jeep’
• Jeep wades through signature obstacles from Tough Mudder course including: ‘Mud Mile’, ‘Quagmire’, ‘Killa Gorilla’ and ‘Cliff Hanger’
• Fourth year Jeep will be sponsoring the UK Tough Mudder season
• Renegade Tough Mudder £27,795 OTR and comes in two colours: orange and black

Jeep and Tough Mudder have put their expertise and innovation commitment to the test after partnering to create the first ever ‘Tough Mudder for Jeep’ to launch the limited edition Renegade Tough Mudder.

To celebrate Jeep’s fourth year sponsoring the UK Tough Mudder series, it has released just 100 of the special limited edition vehicles – which go on sale today (27 April) in the UK – just two days ahead of the 2017 UK season kick-off at London West on April 29th.

The limited edition Renegade successfully waded through a course designed by Tough Mudder, tackling rough terrain, dirty water and signature Tough Mudder obstacles, including ‘Mud Mile’ and ‘Quagmire.’ The Renegade also tackled the steep slopes and inclines of ‘Killa Gorilla’ and the treacherous Cliff Hanger obstacle.

Costing £27,795 OTR, the limited edition Renegade embodies the spirit, fun, adventure and innovation of Tough Mudder with Jeep’s legendary off-road credentials ensuring drivers can tackle any challenge while Mudders push themselves into the unknown on the continually evolving obstacle course. 

Will Dean, Tough Mudder CEO and Co-founder commented on the new Tough Mudder Renegade: “We are proud to partner with Jeep for the fourth consecutive year and enhance the onsite experience for participants, as Mudders from all over the UK get the opportunity to check out Jeep’s iconic fleet of vehicles. We are thrilled to partner in launching the limited edition Renegade Tough Mudders. I look forward to getting behind the wheel of the Renegade myself.”

The first ever ‘Tough Mudder for Jeep’ took place at Silverstone Circuit’s off-road course, Northamptonshire.

About the limited edition Tough Mudder Renegade

The Tough Mudder version is a 4x4 Auto 2.0 Multijet 140hp – available in orange and black – and uses the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk’s front bumper to provide a more rugged appearance combined with exclusive features and anodized orange interior. Customers will be able to know the specific number of the limited edition model that they have bought, as there is an exterior decal highlighting this, for example ‘55/100’.

Standard features include:

• 2.0 Diesel Multijet II (140hp)
• 9 speed automatic transmission
• 4x4 Active Low
• 17” black alloy off road wheels – with 215/60/ R17 Mud & Snow tyres
• Tough Mudder exclusive bonnet decal
• Limited edition numbered stickers on upper rear three quarter panel
• Tough Mudder tailgate badge
• Off road style front bumper
• Specific interior look – orange and black – with anodised orange interior bezels
• Fabric – heated front seats
• (DAB) Digital Audio Broadcast
• Uconnect 5” touchscreen with Bluetooth, Sat Nav and live services
• All weather floor mats
• Tough Mudder Merchandise Pack to include water bottle, cap, hand towel, lanyard and wrist band in a drawstring bag

About Tough Mudder and Jeep

2017 marks the fourth year that Jeep UK partners with Tough Mudder, the leading active lifestyle brand and media company, which hosts a series of endurance and mud run events all over the world.

The famed ‘Mud Mile’ obstacle will return to the 10-12-mile Tough Mudder Full and 5-mile Tough Mudder Half events throughout the season where thousands of Mudders will tackle the co-branded Jeep obstacle at the event. Once again, the Renegade converted into a DJ booth will be providing extra motivation for Mudders on that section of the course.

Jeep will be present at six Tough Mudder events this year, providing a fleet of Jeep Renegade, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee vehicles and displaying the new Renegade Tough Mudder limited edition. The Jeep Fest Service Station will return for a second time, enhancing the participant experience by featuring a face-marking station for participants to use pre-event.

As Mudders finish the events, the Jeep Fest Service Station will also be giving away car seat covers to keep their vehicle interiors clean.

The first UK Tough Mudder events of the season take place this weekend (29 April) at Tough Mudder and Tough Mudder Half London West at Culden Faw. Find out more about the limited edition visit here: http://www.jeep.co.uk/renegade-tough-mudder/

Ssangyong expands into the importation of commercial vehicles from DFSK.

Vehicle Import & Distribution Ltd, has been established by Bassadone Automotive, which also owns the UK importer and distributor of SsangYong 4x4 cars and light commercials, SsangYong Motor UK Ltd.

The setting-up of the new company will be overseen by Doug Lincoln, operations director.  With its head office and logistics centre in Luton, DFSK vehicles will arrive through the company’s own import reception and preparation centre at Portbury Docks, near Bristol.

The range, which will go on sale this summer, will initially comprise four models.  The C31 single cab minitruck, C32 double cab minitruck, C35 panel van, and the C37 minivan.  UK prices have yet to be announced, but expected to start from below £10,000.

All DFSK vehicles meet the latest emissions requirements, and are powered by 1500cc Euro 6B petrol engines.

Commented Doug Lincoln, “We believe there is a huge opportunity for DFSK in the UK.  From small independent businesses through to local authorities, cost-saving and value-for-money is today’s mantra.  Why pay more when a DFSK delivers such a great return on investment?

“We particularly see huge opportunities in metropolitan areas where the vehicles’ compact size, manoeuvrability and economical petrol engines are ideal for short, stop-start urban journeys.”

From launch, there will be a network of service centres nationwide, with retail outlets located strategically.

“Good and well-priced aftersales service is vital in this sector of the market,” says Mr Lincoln.  “We want to get that right and build customer confidence in the product and servicing before pushing for volume sales.”

6.2 LItre, 707 HP, 180mph, sounds like a supercar, but it is a Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV

• Most powerful SUV ever: supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine delivers 707 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque 
• Quickest SUV ever: 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, quarter mile in 11.6 seconds and top speed of 180 mph
• Upgraded TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and driveline components engineered to handle additional torque output
• 60-0 mph braking performance of 114 feet
  • New Brembo braking system includes largest-ever front brakes on a Jeep® vehicle
• World-class on-road driving dynamics: upgraded TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and driveline components, five drive-mode Selec-Track system and Bilstein adaptive damping suspension
• Aggressive, functional exterior appointments include unique quad-tip exhaust and redesigned fascia that optimizes airflow and cooling
• New standard 20 x 10-inch Titanium wheels expose distinctive yellow Brembo brake calipers
• Driver-focused interior: 7-inch instrument cluster with centered tachometer and 200 mph speedometer; 8.4-inch touchscreen with Trackhawk Performance Pages
• More than 70 safety and security features
• Loaded with advanced technology: new Uconnect 8.4-standard touchscreen includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Injected with an unmatched 707 horsepower courtesy of an awe-inspiring supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine, the most awarded SUV ever and the most capable full-size SUV on the planet has been transformed into the most powerful and quickest SUV ever.

Introducing the new 2018 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.

The new benchmark 707-horsepower supercharged engine combines with an upgraded high-torque capacity TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, world-class on-road driving dynamics and new Brembo brakes to deliver a new level of performance: 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, quarter mile in 11.6 seconds at 116 mph, top speed of 180 mph, 60-0 mph braking distance in 114 feet and .88g capability on the skid pad.

“Long recognized as the full-size SUV capability leader, Jeep Grand Cherokee is now the most powerful and quickest SUV as well, with the introduction of our new 707-horsepower Trackhawk,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. “The new Grand Cherokee Trackhawk delivers astounding performance numbers, backed by renowned SRT engineering that combines world-class on-road driving dynamics with luxury, refinement and an array of innovative advanced technology.”

Built in Detroit at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant, the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will arrive in Jeep showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Awe-inspiring 707 horsepower courtesy of supercharged 6.2-litre V8

Powering the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine delivering 707 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque.

The breakthrough supercharged engine is designed and manufactured using only the strongest and most durable materials. Its cast iron block features water jackets between the cylinders for optimal cooling. A forged-steel crankshaft with induction-hardened bearing surfaces is so strong it can withstand firing pressures of nearly 1,600 psi (110 bar) – the equivalent of five family sedans standing on each piston, every two revolutions. The unique, specially tuned crankshaft damper has been burst tested to 13,000 rpm.

High-strength, forged-alloy pistons – developed using advanced telemetry measurement – are coupled to powder-forged connecting rods with high-load-capacity bushings and diamond-like, carbon-coated piston pins.

Premium grade, heat-treated aluminum-alloy cylinder heads are optimized for superior thermal conductivity. Sodium-cooled exhaust valves feature hollow-stem construction and special steel-alloy heads that stand up to temperatures as high as 1,652 degrees Fahrenheit (900 degrees Celsius).

The 2,380cc per revolution supercharger includes integral charge-air coolers and an integrated electronic bypass valve to regulate boost pressure to a maximum of 11.6 psi (80 kPa). The twin-screw rotors are specially coated with:

• a proprietary formula of polyimide and other resins
• nanometer-sized, wear-resistant particles
• solid lubricants, such as PTFE (Teflon)

The coating enables tighter clearance between the rotors. This reduces internal air leakage, delivering improved compressor performance and higher efficiencies. The coating can withstand the temperatures generated by compression, and provides superior corrosion resistance.

The supercharger is sealed for life with premium synthetic oil, uses a drive ratio of 2.36:1 and has a maximum speed of 14,600 rpm. The supercharger drive system’s one-way clutch de-coupler improves refinement, while allowing for precisely the kind of powerful sound certain to captivate Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk drivers.

Air sources for the supercharger include a cold-air scoop in the lower front fascia, which replaces the driver’s-side fog lamp and helps to feed the 92mm throttle body.

The large-nosed crankshaft drives a high-flow gerotor oil pump, which feeds a lubrication circuit that includes eight high-flow piston-cooling jets. A high-capacity oil/air heat exchanger, mounted in the front of the Trackhawk, mitigates oil temperatures when driving conditions are harshest, such as on the track.

A new low-temperature cooling system, consisting of a pump, reservoir, heat exchanger and lines, help keep the charge air cool during performance driving. This system is designed to keep intake air temperatures below 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius), under extreme ambient conditions, while enabling air flow of up to 30,000 litres per minute.

A new fuel delivery system, featuring two high-flow, multi-mode pumps, matches the high-performance demands of the engine.

Upgraded driveline components, durability and refinement result in benchmark off-road performance

The performance of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is bolstered by various upgraded driveline components engineered to handle the additional torque output from the supercharged engine.

The standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission delivers improved shift response, quality and consistent performance and drivability. The transmission software takes into account variables such as engine torque gradients, kick-down events, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, grade changes, friction detection and downshift detection to determine the appropriate shift map. 

Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is equipped with the Jeep Quadra-Trac on-demand four-wheel-drive system, which includes an electronic limited-slip rear differential and a single-speed active transfer case. The new, full-time active transfer case uses forged steel chain sprockets and a wider chain for added strength and durability.

A strengthened rear drive shaft connects to a new, stronger rear axle. The differential features a revised housing design, revised ring-and-pinion tooth geometry and new four-point axle mounting scheme for better load distribution, additional torque capacity and overall durability. Torque is delivered to the rear wheels via new ultra-high-strength 300-metre low-alloy vacuum melted steel half-shafts with upgraded eight-ball outboard constant velocity joints.

Standard Launch Control optimizes the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s performance by coordinating the engine, transmission, driveline and suspension for a textbook launch and consistent straight-line acceleration.

A new standard Torque Reserve system provides improved engine torque response and quicker vehicle acceleration in Launch Control by pre-positioning the supercharger bypass valve to generate boost and minimize manifold filling time, while cutting fueling to individual cylinders and managing spark timing. This generates a reserve of torque that can be instantaneously delivered upon acceleration from a standing stop.

The Selec-Track system on the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk uses performance-tuned software to pre-configure and distinguish the five dynamic modes, including: Auto, Sport, Track, Snow and Tow, enabling drivers to choose a vehicle setting that ideally meets their requirements and ambient conditions. The drive modes separately control the four-wheel-drive system, transmission, paddle shifters, suspension and the electric power steering.

Dynamic drive mode configurations include:

• Auto — Automatically adapts to any condition; uses a 40-percent front/60-percent rear torque split
• Sport — Transmission shift times are reduced by 50 percent versus Auto Mode; stability control, four-wheel-drive and steering systems are set for typical enthusiast driving style; paddle shifters are enabled and suspension is tightened up without increasing impact harshness to deliver increased vehicle performance capability over Auto Mode; uses 35/65 torque split
• Track — Transmission shift times are reduced 68 percent versus Auto Mode to 160 milliseconds; stability control, four-wheel-drive and steering systems are set for ultimate track performance; paddle shifters are enabled and suspension is set to full firm to deliver maximum vehicle performance capability on smooth, dry surfaces; uses 30/70 torque split
• Tow — Alters torque delivery off the line for greater smoothness and adjusts suspension to combat pitch and yaw to deliver maximum towing performance: uses 60/40 torque split
• Snow — Maximizes traction to deliver optimized performance on snow and ice with reduced engine horsepower; uses 50/50 torque split

Trackhawk also features a Custom Mode that allows the driver to personalize the vehicle’s performance with a selectable driving experience offering a multitude of vehicle system combinations. 

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk rides on a short- and long-arm (SLA) independent front suspension with coil springs, Bilstein adaptive damping suspension (ADS), upper- and aluminium lower-control arms (“A” arms), aluminium knuckle, aluminium clevis and hollow stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is a multi-link design with coil spring, Bilstein ADS, aluminium lower control arm, independent upper links (tension and camber), plus a separate toe link, and a hollow stabilizer bar.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is capable of towing 7,200 pounds.

New benchmark SUV stopping performance

New high-performance Brembo brakes include the largest standard front brakes ever offered on a Jeep vehicle. Up front are 15.75-inch (400 mm) two-piece vented rotors with six-piston calipers painted with a new distinctive yellow finish, and 13.78-inch (350 mm) vented rotors with four-piston yellow calipers in the rear for outstanding stopping performance, heat management and durability. 

The new Brembo brakes bring the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk to a stop from 60 mph in 114 feet. For added safety, the anti-lock braking, electronic stability control and traction systems are uniquely tuned.

Aggressive and functional exterior

The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk rides one inch lower than non-SRT Grand Cherokee models and is further set apart with body-colored wheel flares, side sill cladding and a sculpted hood with dual heat extractors.

The signature seven-slot upper front grille is flanked by adaptive, bi-xenon headlamps and surrounded by an LED character lamp treatment. The headlamps on the Trackhawk model feature a unique Gloss Black background to accent their jewel-like appearance.

The fog lights are absent from the Trackhawk’s front fascia to optimize airflow to cooling modules and air induction without compromising the vehicle’s balance.

From behind, the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk features a unique Gloss Black rear valence that showcases four-inch Black Chrome quad exhaust tips. The new quad exhaust system design provides an exhilarating and unmistakable note during maximum acceleration. 

A ‘Supercharged’ badge on both front doors and a Trackhawk badge on the liftgate features a Liquid Titanium Chrome outline and Matte Black background.

New standard 20 x 10-inch Titanium wheels with a Satin Chrome centre cap showcase the distinctive yellow calipers underneath. Available lightweight 20 x 10-inch forged aluminum Low Gloss Black wheels save 12 pounds versus the standard Trackhawk wheel. Grand Cherokee Trackhawk also features all-new Pirelli 295/45ZR20 Scorpion Verde All-Season and new Pirelli P Zero three-season tires with an increased speed rating.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is available in nine exterior colours: Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Diamond Black, Ivory Tri-coat, Bright White, Velvet Red, Rhino (exclusive), Redline 2 (exclusive) and True Blue.

High-performance, racing-inspired interior

The driver-focused interior features premium soft-touch materials, unique Light Black Chrome finishes and carbon fibre spears, and a 7-inch driver information display (DID) instrument cluster, which features the tachometer in the middle. The 200-mph speedometer is on the left side of the cluster.

The instrument panel center stack with new 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen features Trackhawk-exclusive Performance Pages that showcase an array of performance timers and gauge readouts, including a new engine dynamometer screen that measures instantaneous horsepower, torque and current transmission gear. The dynamometer screen also includes a new snapshot function for owners to save their readouts on a USB.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s three-spoke steering wheel with a flat bottom features a bevy of comfort, convenience and connectivity controls and ergonomically efficient paddle shifters.

The Trackhawk features standard Nappa leather and suede seats with an embroidered ‘Trackhawk’ logo. A fully wrapped Signature Leather Interior Package with ‘Trackhawk’ embossed on the seats, optional in black and Trackhawk-exclusive black and Dark Ruby Red is available. Seats are also heated (front and rear) and ventilated (front). Dark Ruby Red seatbelts and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof are also available options.

A new Premium Metal Package is standard and enhances the Trackhawk’s interior with various upscale real metal accents.

Additional premium interior features include: standard Active Noise Cancellation; premium headliner; leather stitched instrument panel, doors, centre console and armrest; Berber floormats with Trackhawk badge and available dual-screen rear-seat entertainment center with Blu-ray.

There is a choice of two audio systems, including an 825-watt Harman Kardon high-performance audio system with 19-speakers and two subwoofers.

Safety and Security

The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk includes more than 70 safety and security features, including Trailer Hitch Camera View at Speed, which allows owners to view trailered items through the rear-mounted camera while moving, and a Valet mode that enables the following vehicle configurations:

• Engine is remapped to significantly reduce horsepower and torque; limited to 4,000 rpm
• Transmission locks out access to first gear and upshifts earlier than normal
• Transmission will treat the manual shifter position the same as the drive position
• Traction, steering and suspension are set to their Street settings
• Steering-wheel paddle shifters are disabled
• Drive Mode functions are disabled
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is enabled to Full-on
• Launch Control is disabled

Drivers can activate and deactivate Valet mode with a personalized four-digit PIN code.

Other prominent, standard Grand Cherokee Trackhawk safety and security features include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop; Advanced Brake Assist; Blind-spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection; Full-speed Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation; Front and Rear Park Assist; Lane Departure Warning-Plus; Ready Alert Braking and SiriusXM Guardian and Roadside Assistance buttons.

Advanced technology delivered with all-new infotainment system

New for 2018, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is equipped with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through the latest version of Uconnect’s 8.4-inch touchscreen radio system. 

Apple CarPlay

Seamlessly integrates an iPhone with the vehicle’s built-in display and controls in addition to featuring Siri Voice control. iPhone-equipped drivers can make phone calls, access music, send and receive messages, and receive voice-guided navigation optimized for traffic conditions and more, while staying focused on the road.

Android Auto

System shares useful information when driving and makes it easy to access the best of Google technology. Featuring Google Maps with free voice-guided navigation, live traffic information, and lane guidance; on-demand access to 30 million songs with Google Play Music; plus the ability to place phone calls or send and receive messages while keeping hands on the wheel; and ask Google search any question. Android Auto also makes it easy to access popular apps and content from the Uconnect system’s touchscreen.

The latest Uconnect operating system includes easy-to-use features, pinch-to-zoom display, enhanced processing power, faster startup times and touchscreens that display high-resolution graphics. Drivers and passengers also have an abundance of infotainment features at their fingertips with SiriusXM Radio, Travel Link, Traffic and Guardian Connected Services that provide real-time information.

50 years have past & the Velar name has made a return on the All-New Range Rover.

• Land Rover launches new visitor attraction at its Solihull home
• Tour takes visitors on a journey from the 1967 Velar prototype to the new Velar
• Interactive exhibit showcases British design and engineering story behind the world’s greatest luxury SUV.

Land Rover has opened a new visitor attraction at its thriving Solihull manufacturing plant. ‘The Range Rover Story’ is an interactive exhibit created to celebrate 50 years of the world’s most revered luxury SUV. 

Range Rover has been manufactured at Solihull since 1970, but its history with the site goes back to 1967 when the first secret prototype was conceived, codenamed Velar. 

The new exhibit will take visitors on a time-travelling voyage from its inception in the mid 1960s, through to the introduction of the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Evoque. The exhibition culminates in an exciting unveil of the new Range Rover Velar, celebrating British design and engineering integrity. 

Roger Crathorne (known as Mr Land Rover) dedicated 50 years’ service to Land Rover and has been heavily involved in the creation of the exhibition. 

He said: “The exhibit tells the incredible story of the Range Rover, from the original Velar prototype through to today’s new model. At the time I began my career in 1967 as a Technical Assistant on the Velar Team, the intention was never to build a luxury vehicle. 

Over the 50 years since, the Range Rover has come a long way. We wanted to develop a more comfortable on-road Land Rover that would combine the comfort of the Rover with the Land Rover 4x4 capability to support a growing leisure market.” 

Nigel Blenkinsop, Operations Director at Solihull, said: “We are hugely proud to build the Range Rover Velar at Solihull, the birthplace of both the Land Rover and Range Rover. Here, we have invested over £2bn in recent years to enable us to triple production. Our business is now Britain’s number one car manufacturer.” 

The opening of the Range Rover exhibition coincides with the opening of Velar manufacturing tours at Solihull. Velar is the third new model in a year to be launched at the plant, following the Jaguar F-PACE and new Discovery. 

Velar is produced in one of the largest aluminium body shops in the world and is beautifully finished in a versatile trim hall; capable of producing three different SUVs – all built to customers’ unique specifications. 

The Solihull plant has contributed to the company doubling its sales and headcount in the past five years. This has supported the UK’s revival in manufacturing, boosting the British economy where the automotive company provides 240,000 jobs in the supply chain. The Range Rover family contributes £10bn annually to the UK economy and is Britain’s largest luxury export