At least one observer said that the Phoenix / Pentastar engines were at least a generation ahead of anything currently available. Power ratings for the Jeep Grand Cherokee will be 280 horsepower (209 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 N•m) @ 4,800 rpm; the engine uses a chain drive instead of a timing belt for greater longevity and accuracy. The engine was first shown to the public on April 8, 2009.
Here are some of the major innovations, as far as we can tell:
* All accessories bolted directly onto the block to avoid vibration and noise
* Exhaust manifold apparently integrated into the head itself
* Oil to antifreeze oil cooler in the "V"
* Canister-free oil filter element — prevents landfill, allows incineration; also eases DIY oil changes and prevents ham-fisted oil change places from "holing" or over-tightening the filter
* Very lightweight block — saves on aluminum and reduces overall vehicle weight (improving balance, too)
o High-pressure die-cast blocks save on labor, have thinner walls, and are 20 pounds lighter than GM’s V6 blocks, saving around $40 per engine on aluminum and contributing to much lower build costs than GM’s engines.
The 3.6-liter V-6 version features high-flow intake and exhaust ports, which in combination with VVT via dual independent cam phasing, allows optimum volumetric and combustion efficiency over the full speed and load range. This results in an exceptional, flat torque curve along with high specific power. The engine’s torque exceeds 90 percent of its peak value from 1,600 to 6,400 rpm, which provides outstanding drivability and responsiveness.
In the Grand Cherokee, the engine will not have direct injection, partly because that technique, while more efficient, adds some noise and vibration. Direct injection is rumored to be on future versions of the engine.
Refinement was achieved with the help of advanced computer-aided engineering. Structural, intake, and exhaust areas deliver low levels of noise. Idle quality was improved through dual independent cam phasing.
The advanced oil filter system eliminates oil spills and contains an incinerable filter element instead of the typical spin-on filters, which are disposed of in landfill sites; the filter is conveniently located on top of the engine. The use of long-life spark plugs, regular gasoline, and a high-energy coil-on-plug ignition system also helps to reduce cost of ownership. The engine also is fully flex fuel capable, offering consumers the choice of gasoline or E85 fuel without any degradation in performance or emissions.
TypeLiquid cooled 60-degree V6
MaterialAluminum block and heads; deep-skirt blockValvesChain driven DOHC with 24 valves. Roller finger followers and hydraulic lash adjusters.
Dual independent cam-torque actuated phasers.Displacement220 cid / 3.6 litersBore x Stroke3.78 x 3.27 (96 x 83 mm)Fuel injectionReturnless, sequential. Direct injection “may be coming.”Compression10.2:1Fluid6 quarts 5W20 oil; 14 quarts antifreeze; regular gasRedline6,400 rpm (stated elsewhere as 7,200 rpm)Power280 hp (209 kw) @ 6,400; 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) @ 4,800Emission controlsDual three-way catalytic converters, heated oxygen sensors, internal featuresAssemblyFirst: Trenton South Engine, Trenton, Michigan
Running on regular gas, the Pentastar engine is rated for 16 mpg city, 23 highway on the Grand Cherokee — vs 16/20 for the Hemi. It meets California LEV II+ evaporative emission requirements, Tier 2, meets Federal Bin 4+ emission requirements, and Clean Fuel Fleet Certification (CCF-LEV) in all other states.
I've been tempted too, but sticking with chevrons for now.