Jeep Joins The Party…Finally
Sources indicate that the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be offered with a six-speed automatic transmission. This represents a must needed change that will make Jeep more competitive in its class with regards to performance and fuel economy.
The Hemi has been a great engine (having owned a 2005 with one), but paired with the 545RFE five-speed often felt clumsy and overworked. Early reports indicated that Fiat planned on using a new eight-speed transmission, but it now looks like the 65RFE six-speed will be utilized.
Beyond the Grand Cherokee, Jeep will also update the engine in the 2012 Wrangler. Historically known for the bullet-proof 4.0L, Jeep replaced the straight six with a 3.8L V6 in 2007 with the introduction of the JK. For 2012, Jeep will be using the new 3.6L Pentastar V6 which debuted last year in the 2011 Grand Cherokee. This new engine represents a significant boost in performance and should help win back customers who may have exited the Wrangler brand following the demise of the 4.0.