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2012 Grand Cherokee - Features & Changes

116K views 347 replies 85 participants last post by  rockrash 
#1 · (Edited)
2012 Grand Cherokee - JG Garage exclusive advance info

Order banks open: June 6 (May 30th for Canada)

Production start: July 20 (except SRT8); August 18 (SRT)

Models

Laredo
Limited
Overland
Overland Summit
SRT8

Engines:

3.6L, 5.7L, 6.4L

Transmissions:

5-speed automatic
6-speed automatic (5.7L models)

What's New:

All-new 2nd Generation SRT8 with 6.4L Hemi
6-speed Automatic replaces the 5-speed Automatic on V8 models
40GB Hard Drives on all Media Center Radios
Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering – added to all V6 models
Added availability of options on Laredo
New Stand-alone Uconnect option on Laredo ‘E’
New Dual-Pane Panoramic Sunroof option on Laredo ‘X’
New Power Liftgate option on Laredo ‘X’ (requires Power Sunroof)
New 20-inch Polished Wheels available on Overland (late availability)
New 18-inch Polished Aluminum Wheels available on Laredo “E” and “X” (late availability)
New 18-inch Off-Road Tire & Wheel Delete (AGW) on Laredo ‘X’
New: Chrome tow hooks (Summit Edition, late availability)
New 20-inch Polished Aluminum Wheels (WRJ) optionally available on Overland (replaces Chrome Clad option),
- (design is identical to the standard 20-inch Premium Wheels, but with a rich polished finish (late availability)
Harman Kardon 19-speaker High Performance 7.3 Surround Sound audio system (SRT8 only)
LED taillamps (cancelled until 2013 model year)


Exterior colors:

Black Forest Green (Order banks open November 1, production start December 12, 2011)
Brilliant Black Crystal Clear Coat
Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat
Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat
Maximum Steel (order banks open November 25, production start December 12)
Mineral Gray Metallic Clear Coat
Rugged Brown Pearl Coat (production delayed until November 7, 2011)
Stone White Clear Coat
True Blue
Winter Chill (order banks open October 3rd, production start December 19)

White Gold Clear Coat (cancelled for remainder of model year, last day of production 11/30/2011)
Canyon Brown (cancelled, replaced by Rugged Brown. Existing orders with Canyon Brown were changed to Rugged Brown.


Navigation radios (same as 2011 models except RHR hard drive increased to 40GB, 20GB usable):

430N (Garmin RHB)
730N (Harmon RHR) (Standard on Overland and SRT8)

Additional expanded information: http://wk2jeeps.com/wk2_2012_features.htm

--Milous
 
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#3 · (Edited)
Thanks Milous. How about headlights? Are the led running lights coming to all models? It is weird that the LED tail lights are srt only.....still, just a swap away. :)

If you have a chance Milous, tell them to paint the lowers on the Overland, or at least offer it as an option.

The new colors look promising. Are any of them currently offered on other models other than the redline? The Deep Burgundy Pearl Coat and Canyon Brown Pearl Coat look promising.
 
#15 ·
I have noticed that some media outlets list the current 5.7 so called multi-speed transmission as a 6 speed because of the different down shift gear, I think... or perhaps its just easier to fit "6 speed" into the story than "Multi-Speed Overdrive".... :)
 
#16 ·
How close are we getting to a replacement for the Hemi?

It's been around since '05 and I would think that we are about due for a slightly faster and more fuel efficient offering. Maybe something along the lines of the rumored V6 twin-turbo.

Although 2011 sales have been strong, I think long term the WK2 really needs an upgrade from the Hemi to stay competitive with other high-end SUVs.
 
#17 ·
How close are we getting to a replacement for the Hemi? It's been around since '05 and I would think that we are about due for a slightly faster and more fuel efficient offering. Maybe something along the lines of the rumored V6 twin-turbo.
The all-new 2nd gen Hemi 5.7 VVT was released starting with the 2009 model year - hp, torque and fuel economy were improved.
 
#19 ·
I would be a tad bummed if I had bought a Rugged Brown Summit and the Canyon Brown Pearl Coat ends up being the same color with a different name and available on all models since it was listed as "exclusive" to the Summit (perhaps just for 2012). Doubt the brown will be as common as black, white, silver, gray....but still the exclusivity was sorta a nice draw.
 
#21 ·
From photos, the color looks close - but it's hard to tell. I think it probably won't be the exact same color just because Chrysler will probably use paint that doesn't have that particular additive from Japan.

I do agree though, it would be nice if it's different enough so that the Rugged Brown Summits are instantly recognizable. (So says this Star-Bellied Sneech :D)
 
#20 ·
6-speed automatic transmission (5.7L models)

- Would like to know more about this....
 
#26 ·
Thanks for the info Milous.

I'm wondering if there will be any tweaks similar to what the new Dodge Charger got?

And has Jeep/Chrysler finally put a illuminated Push Button Start on the JGC?!?
 
#30 ·
Is the 430 Garmin same as the current one or is this an upgraded version?
Same radio.


Are prices expected to stay the same?
They will increase a little as is common for the new model year. Shipping will increase by $45 (to $825) - this is actually effective today with the 2011 models. 2011 Overland models also increased by $385 today, an increase that will be reflected on the 2012 models.


I just test drove a V6 limited today and really want it, do you still suggest waiting for the 2012?
I would definitely hold off at least until confirmed changes are known, should be within the next few weeks.
 
#29 ·
Anyone know if these preliminary colors are available on all models? Are they replacing or being added to the 2011 colors or only available on certain models in lieu of other colors?

Torn between wanting to lease a V6 Laredo X or Limited 4x4 now or waiting to pre-order a 2012 in June. Any advantages or disadvantages to doing either? Price or otherwise?

Thanks! :)
 
#35 ·
Thanks for the welcome :)

Mostly referring to changes for 2012 (i.e. 6-speed mated to the V8, final confirmation on colors, Overland Summit continuing for 2012, any other tweaks or a change in pricing, features, options, etc.). Lot of rumors/speculation out there, and it would be nice to know details for sure so that an informed "Get a 2011 off the dealer lot now vs. Wait for a 2012" decision can be made.
 
#39 ·
They'll probably had to so some significant redesign in order to do it because of the bigger size. Move the A/C vents and ductwork on either side of it, etc. They'd want to probably redesign the array of HVAC buttons that are underneath it, too, so that the size of that array of buttons in in proportion to the new display. etc. I'm sure they want to get some ROI on the current design before they go and do all that.
 
#38 ·
You are better off securing a 2011 GC Limited or Overland. Milous confirmed price increases all in play. I doubt there will be many changes, if any. A 6-speed is possible, based on what I have read. IMO, 6 vs. 5-speed is not going to be a huge gas saving delta. Beyone that, why pay 2012 pricing. Find a 2011, they are out there. Save $sssss.
 
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