2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo | Review | Buying Guide
2005 will forever be remembered as the year that the Grand Cherokee emerged from the pack of sport utility vehicles and began to truly dominate the segment. The reason for that is because the makers of the mainstay have done a complete reworking of the tried vehicle.
The result is more power, more features and more size—in effect, everything that could have been upgraded was. There are two all-wheel drive setups, three engines, two transmissions, new transfer cases…really, the list can go on and on.
Starting things off is the entry-level Laredo model (Limited covered separately). It can’t boast everything that the Limited can, but it is cheaper. Both get a new exterior that includes a higher belt line and a reduced glass-to-body proportion.
Under the Hood
The standard powertrain under the hood of the Laredo has been beefed up for 2005. It consists of a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 210 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 235 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. For 2005 Laredos, this new engine is couple to a new 5-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift gate.
Optional this year is a 4.7-liter V6 engine. It adds a big dose of muscle in the form of 230 horsepower at 4700 rpm and 290 lb-ft of torque at 3700 rpm. A similar 5-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift gate is used, but this one has a tow/haul mode.
2005 Grand Cherokees can be purchased with rear-wheel drive or with one of two all-wheel drive systems: Quadra-Trac or Quadra-Drive. The former employs a new transfer case and Throttle Anticipate, which takes steps to maximize traction before tire slippage even occurs. The latter also includes limited-slip differentials.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The all-new Grand Cherokee is longer than the 1999-2004 version by 3.5 inches in wheelbase and 5 inches overall. This gives it a more stately appearance, both on and off the road.
Standard features for the Laredo include a rear wiper, air conditioning, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a center console, power mirrors, windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, an AM/FM/CD player, a digital clock and a trip computer.
There are plenty of new options this year. Many of them are quite sophisticated, like a power sunroof, rear-obstacle detection, satellite radio and an infotainment group. It includes a DVD player and an in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer or navigation system.
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