'05 Grand Cherokee Up DateWe've been hearing the rumors for awhile: The next generation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is in the works. Though we don't have key information yet, such as what exactly it's going to look like or whether that solid front axle will still be in residence, we can report that the body styling will remain similar to the current model (with some exceptions) and that two updated powerplants will be offered, a 4.7L V-8 and a 5.7L hemi V-8. Word on the street is that the body styling has continued to evolve in the direction of the Euro SUV, with overlaid round headlights and a more rectangular grille. A few specialty items are said to have been added as well, including an air suspension and a third row of seats for increased occupant capacity. As far as the drivetrain, spy shots revealed a solid rear axle, but a new cost-saving, parts-sharing philosophy means that the new Grand Cherokee will borrow some cues and equipment from the current and next-generation Mercedes ML-Class models.
Reader Of The MonthAfter featuring a reader of the month in the Aug. '03 issue, we received a good deal of photos from other readers who explained why they felt they deserved this exalted moniker. This month's snapshot came from Tiffany Gonzalez of Lorton, Virginia, who presented us with a photo of her husband, Horacio, reading 4 Wheel Drive & Sport Utility on a gurney at the local hospital. Seems that Horacio is an animal lover as much as he is a 4x4 enthusiast, and he inadvertently knocked his axle off its stand trying to get a kitten out of harm's way. While steel-toed boots might have softened the blow, the flip-flop sandals Horacio was wearing at the time, did not. Tiffany tells us that Horacio has fully recovered from the incident, and they are currently preparing for their next big project: their first child, due this November. Best of luck to both Horacio and Tiffany.
Bestop Cleaning HouseIf you're looking to score a new soft top or bikini top for that Jeep of yours, Bestop just made it a lot cheaper to do so. The company launched its new clearance Web site, offering factory seconds and discontinued products, including soft tops and accessories, sound bars, and bikini tops. For more information, contact: www.bestopbuys.com.