Goodyear Run-Flats Will Carry High-Performance Jeep

AKRON, Ohio, March 24 -- The all-new 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, unveiled this week at the New York Auto Show, is loaded with special features -- including four that are a first for a Jeep vehicle.

High-performance tires with run-flat capability are being supplied by Goodyear for the new Jeep model, giving it a heightened level of versatility and extended mobility. The Grand Cherokee SRT8 will ride on 20-inch diameter aluminum wheels wrapped with Goodyear Eagle RS-A run-flat tires in a 255/45R20 size in front, and 285/40R20 at the rear. The four-season tires are W-speed- rated.

Jeep selected Goodyear to develop tires for the innovative specialty vehicle, which adds 85 horsepower to the already quick 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The 6.1-liter HEMI-equipped engine (415 horsepower) on the SRT8 model supplies the power, and a performance suspension and Chrysler's Electronic Stability Program (ESP) provide the high level of handling.

The low and aggressive stance of the vehicle, with its SRT (Street and Racing Technology) styling, aero improvements and fender-filling 20-inch tires make it a visually appealing sight.

Mike Parnell, Goodyear's vice president for OE tires, said the Eagle RS-A tires feature an asymmetric tread pattern that enables precise cornering capabilities, with aggressive tread blocks on the outside shoulder for increased handling capability, along with high traction and a quiet ride.

"Being selected to supply the highest-performance tires for the highest- performance vehicles -- especially a run-flat fitment for a premium-image brand -- is a proud honor for Goodyear. Our position on the Grand Cherokee SRT8 joins our fitments on Chrysler vehicles like the PT Cruiser, Ram truck, 300C, Magnum and others," said Parnell.

Goodyear tires are original equipment on many vehicles from Acura, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jeep, Land Rover, Lexus, Mazda, Mercury, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Toyota. Traditionally, more new vehicles in North America are equipped with Goodyear tires than any other brand.

Goodyear is the world's leading manufacturer of run-flat tires, with applications on the Chevrolet Corvette, Mini Cooper, various BMW sports cars and others.

For more information about Goodyear's broad selection of tires for cars, light trucks, SUVs, and more, visit http://www.goodyeartires.com/ .