First lesson in Jalopnik readership — always have a camera at the ready. Like star tipster and reader Adam, who was quick to take a picture of a manufacturer-plated Jeep near Rochester Road and Big Beaver in Troy, MI earlier this week as he made his way home from a long day of widget-making or sprocket-mending. Adam saw this oddly-badged Jeep and immediately though "Patriot." However, due to the boxy exterior, he really could have thought "Commander" or "Liberty." If he'd thought the last one, he'd have been right — sort of. You see, this diesel-powered Jeep is a Liberty for the overseas market and it looks like it's doing a short jaunt stateside (to take advantage of the currency conversion rates wethinks with some shopping over at Somerset) wearing it's more familiar and much-more-loved overseas name — Jeep Cherokee. Remember, if you spot a camo-clad car — like this diesel Jeep Cherokee — send us a tip to tips@jalopnik.com and you, like Adam, might see your name in the fancy lights of the webosphere!

BMW VISION EFFICIENTDYNAMICS AT THE 78TH INTERNATIONAL GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

Character:
• World premiere of the concept car BMW Vision EfficientDynamics,
showing a further stage in the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy. The first time a 4-cylinder diesel engine has been combined with BMW ActiveHybrid Technology in a large Sports Activity Vehicle.
• The concept study based on a BMW X5 - even as a serial production model extremely efficient and dynamic - shows the unique potential
of technology developed as part of the BMW EfficientDynamics programme. It combines BMW's superior diesel expertise with the innovative BMW ActiveHybrid Technology. A further increase in efficiency
is achieved by means of BMW EfficientDynamics measures in the environment of the combustion engine by optimising energy flow and aerodynamics.
• By intelligently combining a combustion engine and a generator as part
of a Mild Hybrid concept, dynamic performance and efficiency are increased to an equal degree. With the extensive deployment of measures which are in some cases ready for serial production and were in some cases specially developed for this study, there is maximum utilisation of the potential of BMW EfficientDynamics for the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emission levels up to the limits of what is feasible within the
BMW X5 vehicle segment. At the same time, the study clearly shows that any additional increase in efficiency over and above the highly efficient BMW vehicles already available today can only be achieved by means of
an exponential increase in effort and expense.
• With an average fuel consumption of 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the
EU test cycle and a CO2 emission level of 172 grams per kilometre,
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is by far the most efficient vehicle of its
size in the competitive environment of the BMW X models. The significant reduction of fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels is realised having to forego BMW's characteristic driving dynamics. In addition to acceleration (0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds), comfort and versatility are also at the level of a large SAV - but in conjunction with the fuel consumption and CO2 emission levels of conventional vehicles in the compact class.
Technology:
• The 2.0 litre 4-cylinder diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo, common
rail injection of the third generation and all-aluminium crankcase
housing delivers 150 kW/204 bhp and generates a maximum torque of 400 Nm between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. It is the first diesel in the
world with a specific power output of over 100 bhp per litre of capacity.
• BMW ActiveHybrid is based on a modular principle which allows
the integration of the best possible components in differing concepts, according to the "Best of Hybrid" strategy. The components used in
the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics study - Mild Hybrid and 4-cylinder diesel - harmonise just as perfectly as the combination of Full Hybrid and the 8-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid.
• The innovative hybrid system of the concept study BMW Vision EfficientDynamics reflects the most sophisticated stage of development of intelligent energy management in the vehicle to date. In the Mild Hybrid concept, the generator contributes to vehicle acceleration with 15 kW and
a maximum torque of 210 Nm. The total output of the vehicle is 165 kW.
The hybrid technology thus increases the dynamic potential of the
4-cylinder diesel engine in way which is in keeping with the character of the BMW X5, as well as enabling the combination of a small engine with
a large vehicle in the first place. What is more, the generator produces electricity to supply the power consumers in the vehicle by means of
Brake Energy Regeneration. This minimises the direct conversion of fuel into electrical energy and maximises the drive torque available for conversion into driving dynamics.
• Power generation: the compact generator, integrated in the crankcase housing, replaces a conventional generator powered directly by the engine. Electrical energy is produced by Brake Energy Regeneration with a unique degree of efficiency without impairing the drive torque of the engine. The high-power electronic system - for the first time flange-mounted directly onto the gearbox - allows a compact design which has never been possible before, as well as a sound arrangement of the hybrid components.
• Battery: a high-performance, package-appropriate lithium-ion battery integrated in the luggage compartment supplies the vehicle electrical system. Its high storage capacity enables optimum exploitation of the potential provided by Brake Energy Regeneration.
• Use of electrical power: due to the higher level of electrical power output available, additional vehicle functions can be powered purely electrically. The Auto Start/Stop Function for avoiding idling phases of the combustion engine is available virtually all the time and without any loss of comfort in conjunction with ActiveHybrid Technology.
• The hybrid module is based on a technology which was conceived as
part of the hybrid co-operation between BMW and Daimler. The hybrid co-operation successfully develops components for hybrid drives including high-power electronic systems and high-volt batteries. Here, the specific BMW design of the hybrid drive systems is ensured.
• The concept car BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is fitted with a novel,
highly efficient 8-speed automatic transmission developed jointly by
BMW and ZF Getriebe GmbH. Presented here for the first time and ready for serial production use, this 8-speed automatic transmission makes
an additional contribution to reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions with its direct connection to the engine and minimised torque-converter slip. The further increased shift dynamics and direct-find function for moving into the selected driving position promote a dynamic driving response. Power transmission is effected via the intelligent all-wheel
drive system BMW xDrive, i.e. fully variably between the front and rear axle.
• In the concept car BMW Vision EfficientDynamics there is also a solar
roof which acts as an additional energy source for the vehicle power supply which is independent of the engine. High-power solar cells covering
a surface area of some 1.0 square metres generate a maximum energy
of one kilowatt hour for consumers inside and outside the vehicle. This enables pre-heating of the gear oil, thereby shortening the inefficient warm-up phase. What is more, direct energy supply is possible during standstill
for ventilation or for operating a cool box, audio equipment, a mobile phone charger or for charging the vehicle battery, for example. This optimised
the availability and use of electrical energy in a way which is CO2-neutral.

Exterior design:
• BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is based visually and technologically
on the BMW X5. The BMW ActiveHybrid components are integrated in the vehicle in a way which is appropriate to the overall package. The generator and high-power electronic system are integrated in the transmission casing and thus invisible from the outside. A specially designed load compartment recess reflects the compact design of the lithium-ion battery.
• An innovative rim design opens up additional potential in the optimi-
sation of aerodynamics. The aero wheels of the concept car BMW Vision EfficientDynamics make an additional contribution to reducing fuel consumption, for example by requiring one kilowatt less of propulsion power at a speed of 160 km/h. The aerodynamic shaping of the spokes reduces rim ventilation. This has a positive impact on the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle.

[Jeep Commander CRD Spy Photo]

HB Ride Spotting: Jeep Commander CRD [How Bourgeois]

Related:
Edmunds Crash-Tests the Jeep Commander; Startech Tunes the Jeep Commander [internal]

All-new Engine, Refreshed Interior and Exterior and More Premium Amenities for 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

All-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine delivers increased horsepower and torque, improved fuel economy
Refreshed exterior and interior design stays true to its authentic Jeep character with signature seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel openings and attention to rich details and craftsmanship
Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with all-new SIRIUS Backseat TV
Even more innovative, premium amenities are available, including MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System, HID auto-leveling headlamps and heated first- and second-row seats

New York City, April 4, 2007 - The Jeep brand unveiled today the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee that features an all-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine that delivers a 24 percent increase in horsepower, a 6 percent increase in torque and improved fuel economy compared with the engine it replaces. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers a refreshed interior and exterior design and a host of innovative premium amenities, including one not found on other full-size sport-utility vehicles (SUV) on the road today — SIRIUS Backseat TV . The vehicle will arrive at Jeep dealerships starting this fall.

"With a choice of five engines, three four-wheel-drive systems and more premium amenities than ever before, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee sets the benchmark for full-size SUVs just as it did when it debuted in 1992," said John Plecha, Director — Jeep Brand Marketing and Global Communications. "Now available with SIRIUS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee just made road trips or short trips with kids even more enjoyable."

Only Full-Size SUV with Five Engine Offerings
The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the only vehicle with a choice of five engine offerings:
Award-winning 3.0-liter common rail diesel V-6 engine - Now available on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited and Overland
3.7-liter V-6 engine - Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
All-new 4.7-liter V-8 engine - Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
5.7-liter V-8 HEMI engine - Available on Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, standard on Overland
6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine - Standard on Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

All-new for 2008 is the 4.7-liter V-8 engine that offers better fuel economy, power and torque than the previous 4.7-liter engine, while at the same time delivering improvements in refinement.

The new 4.7-liter V-8 incorporates two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 291 horsepower (217kW), a 24 percent increase, and 322 lb.-ft. of torque (437 N m), a 6 percent increase over the previous 4.7-liter V-8 engine. And, like the engine it replaces, the new 4.7-liter V-8 engine is flex-fuel capable, which gives customers the ability to use up to an 85 percent concentration of ethanol (E85) to fuel their vehicles.

Improvements in the new 4.7-liter V-8 result from significant revisions to the induction system, a lightweight piston/rod assembly and reduced accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. Engine smoothness at idle is enhanced with a new cam design, two spark plugs per cylinder and a valve-lash adjuster system. The new 4.7-liter V-8 also is equipped with electronic throttle control.

First to Offer All-new SIRIUS Backseat TV
The Chrysler Group will be the first and only auto manufacturer to offer SIRIUS Backseat TV in its 2008 model year vehicle lineup, including the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

SIRIUS Backseat TV features three channels of respected children's TV featuring many of the most well-known kids' programming, including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. Rear-seat passengers will be able to watch shows such as Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants," Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana" and Cartoon Network's "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends."

SIRIUS Backseat TV operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle's second-row (except minivan: second- and/or third-row) video screen, and channel name, program title and rating will be broadcast and displayed on the screen. For added flexibility, rear-seat passengers can enjoy SIRIUS Backseat TV while front-seat occupants listen to SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit. In addition, when the vehicle is in park, programming can be displayed on the MyGIG screen for front-seat viewing.

Innovative Premium Amenities
Along with SIRIUS Backseat TV, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes a variety of premium amenities that are new for 2008, including the new MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System that has a built-in navigation, audio, entertainment and communication system. MyGIG enables customers to use touch-screen or voice commands to control all of the features, and includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive where music and photos can be stored. There's space reserved on the hard drive for approximately 1,600 songs; that's over 100 hours of music. There also is a voice-memo recorder feature. MyGIG supports real-time traffic information, available through SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and can provide an alternate drive route based on current traffic.

Also new on the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee are high-intensity discharge (HID) auto-leveling headlamps. HID auto-leveling headlamps provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination. The auto-leveling feature automatically adjusts the headlamps to the vehicle pitch depending on the load and number of passengers in the vehicle. This feature also benefits oncoming traffic as the system prevents drivers from being distracted by glare from the headlamps. The auto-leveling feature is only available with HID headlamps.

ParkView Rear Back-up Camera (with or without navigation), ParkSense Rear Back-up System, SmartBeam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, iPod connectivity and 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels also are part of the vehicle's available features and options.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee also features three new safety and security technologies for 2008: Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control.

Hill Descent Control (HDC) is standard on Grand Cherokee 4x4 models. Operational in the "4WD Low" position, HDC provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed. By means of electronic brake control, HDC supplements the gear reduction and engine braking that a traditional mechanical low-range transfer case provides. For ease of operation, Grand Cherokee's HDC is activated and deactivated automatically, after the HDC button is engaged, as the system senses changes in topography. The system works whether the vehicle is in forward or reverse.

The available Hill Start Assist (HSA) allows the driver time to transition from brake to throttle to achieve a smooth launch on a grade. The system will hold brake pressure for two seconds upon the driver's release of the brake pedal. The ABS system decreases wheel pressure in response to increasing throttle to provide a smooth launch.

Trailer Sway Control is optional on all Grand Cherokee models. This system reduces trailer sway and provides improved trailer stability and increased towing safety.

Refreshed Exterior and Interior
With its upright and substantial posture, the Jeep Grand Cherokee's design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance. The grille has been lengthened, and the headlamps are more circular for a more dominant and expressive front view. A new HID headlamp, optional on Limited and standard on Overland, includes an internal optic lens for the park/turn function. Fog lamps also have also been lowered for enhanced performance. Off-road enthusiasts will be pleased with the new two-piece front fascia, allowing for the entire lower piece to be removed before hitting the off-road trails.

On the inside, the vehicle's two-tone instrument panel features a new level of refinement with bright accents, a soft-touch surface and updated styling. A new tilt and telescoping steering column is standard, with a new steering wheel that includes bright accent bezels, which house the electronic vehicle information center's switches. The Limited model's steering wheel adds two-tone leather and bright chrome accent rings, and the Overland features a real wood rim for added luxury. Also new is the updated line of instrument clusters that feature new brighter LED illumination, with the Limited and Overland models receiving a modern and elegant treatment where, when the vehicle is started, the dark-tinted lens fades to reveal chrome-ringed black gauges that are surrounded by a bright silver accent field. The new floor console has improved cup holders and a new leather-wrapped and chrome-accented parking brake handle. The door panels have new armrests for improved ergonomics and comfort. New for the Overland model are the new saddle perforated leather seats that feature accent piping for an even more upscale look.

Jeep Brand
The Jeep brand has seven models in the 2007 model year, the most available to retail consumers at one time in its 65-year-plus history.

The expansion of the Jeep brand has taken place in just two years. At the start of 2004, the brand's trio of tough, capable, rugged SUVs included the venerable Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty (Cherokee outside North America) and the icon of the brand, the Jeep Wrangler.

In 2005, the Jeep Commander was introduced. In 2006, the redesigned Jeep Wrangler was unveiled. Also debuting in 2006 were three more all-new Jeep vehicles: Jeep Patriot, Jeep Compass and the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

What's this familiar SUV spotted way the hell up in northern Scandinavia, near the Norwegian border? According to those familiar three letters, it's the Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited with the CRD Diesel engine. That's the Benz-built 3.0-liter diesel, producing 215 hp and 376 lb.-ft. torque. Chrysler announced last month the current CRD-powered model will have an MSRP of $38,475. According to spies, some bumper tweaks and seven-spoke wheels indicate this is the 2008 model, which will get a minor facelift over the current Grand Cherokee. Let's just hope they're not using the oil burner to smoke salmon for export. – Mike Spinelli

SPY PHOTOS: Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD [World Car Fans]

Related:
Spy Photos: Jeep Wrangler CRD [internal]

If there's anything like consensus among Jeep fans, it's that a CRD version is long overdue. Sure, you can get all the 2.8-liter, common-rail turbo-diesel Jeeps you want, so long as you're outside US airspace. We know the day will come when the new smoggers arrive on these shores, but is that day near? Do these shots, seen on GreatLakes4x4.com indicate Jeep's ready to pull the trigger (and hey, is that green one a Gladiator pickup in disguise) ? Well, not exactly. These are most likely military vehicles built for export. Back into the waiting room with you, scalliwags! – Mike Spinelli

3 CRD Wranglers sighted in the Soo & WTF? [Great Lakes 4x4]

Related:
Jeep to Discontinue Liberty Diesel [internal]

Despite having doubled its original sales target, Jeep's Liberty CRD will soon be gone like Flynn (well, times change). Blame it on stricter emissions standards going into effect on 2007 that'll render its VM Motori-built 2.8-liter four unusable in the US market. Considering the company just announced its Grand Cherokee will be fitted with a common-rail diesel mill from DaimlerChrysler's Mercedes stable, the Liberty move doesn't mean the company's diesel experiment failed. Well, it kind of does. Chrysler's Jeep reportedly won't be building a new, cleaner-burning diesel Liberty due to cost issues. Bean counting 101.

Allpar News: Liberty diesel dropped [All Par]

Related:
Jeep Cherokee to Get Diesel, Stink up Joint [internal]

We knew it would happen (seriously, we did know). Jeep announced today it will offer its Grand Cherokee in delicious diesel flavor. In fact, it'll be Mercedes-Benz's 3.0-liter CRD (common-rail) turbodiesel burner the Europeans have been privy to that will power the SUV in the US. The Chrysler kids are talking about a 30% increase in fuel economy (over the deepest-sipping V8) from the mill, which produces 215 hp at 3800 rpm and 376 lb.-ft. torque waaay lowdown in the 1600-2800 rpm range — with estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway. It'll be available on the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, Limited and Overland models. Speaking of Europeans, one of these little numbers blew by us on the autostrada in Italy last month — notwithstanding that such a pedal-down maneuver probably cost him about five bucks in fuel. Still, we're totally ready for diesels over here.

Related:
Jeep Needs Engines: Success of Liberty CRD Highlights Diesel Lack [internal]