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Jeep Grand Cherokee

About 12 pages (3,722 words)

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Manufacturer	Chrysler Corporation (1993-98) Magna Steyr DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007) Chrysler LLC 2008-present
Production	1993–present
Predecessor	Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Class	Mid-size SUV
Body style(s)	5-door wagon
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size sport utility vehicle produced by the Jeep division of Chrysler. European Grand Cherokees are manufactured in Austria by Magna Steyr.

Development

The Grand Cherokee was a spinoff of the smaller Jeep Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee's origins date back to 1983 when American Motors (AMC) engineers were designing a Cherokee successor [1]. The 1989 "Jeep Concept 1" show car foretold the basic design. The Grand Cherokee was the first Chrysler-badged Jeep product since AMC came up with the concept; the AMC engineers/designers behind the project, later Chrysler employees (after the 1987 buyout of AMC) were eager for a late 1980s release date; however, then-CEO Lee Iacocca was pushing for redesigned Chrysler minivans, thus delaying the Grand Cherokee's release until late 1992 as an Explorer competitor. The Grand Cherokee debuted in grand fashion at the 1992 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. Then-Chrysler president Robert Lutz drove Detroit mayor, Coleman Young up the steps of Cobo Hall and through a plate glass window to show off the new vehicle. Production of the Grand Cherokee started shortly afterward in the purpose-built Jefferson North Assembly in Detroit, Michigan and has remained there since.

ZJ (1993–1998)

ZJ

Also called	Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Production	1993–1998
Assembly	Detroit, Michigan Graz, Austria
Platform	ZJ
Engine(s)	4.0 L AMC I6 4.0 L Power Tech I6 5.2 L Magnum V8 5.9 L Magnum V8 2.5 L 425 OHV I4
Transmission(s)	4-speed Aisin AW-4 automatic 5-speed Aisin AX-15 manual 4-speed 42RE automatic 4-speed 46RH automatic 4-speed 44RE automatic 4-speed 46RE automatic
Wheelbase	105.9 in (2690 mm)
Length	1993-95: 176.7 in (4488 mm) 1996-98: 177.2 in (4500 mm)
Width	1996-98: 69.2 in (1758 mm) 1993-95 2WD: 69.3 in (1760 mm) 1993-95 4WD: 70.7 in (1795 mm)
Height	64.9 in (1648 mm)
Curb weight	4052 lb (1838 kg)

1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The ZJ models, manufactured from 1993 to 1998, originally came in three general trims, the Base, Laredo, and the Limited. The Base model offered basic features such as full instruments, cloth interior, a standard five-speed manual transmission, while soon gaining the moniker SE name in 1994. Creature comforts like power windows and locks were not standard equipment on the SE, although conveniences like these were finally included in 1995; a somewhat contrasting pricetag with minimal production numbers resulted with low consumer demand and dropping the now-uncommon bare-bone model indefinitely. The Laredo was the mid-scale model (essentially becoming base model after 1996), standard features included added body cladding power windows, power door locks, and cruise control; exterior features displayed a medium grey plastic lower body paneling and five-spoke aluminum wheels. The Limited was the premium model, with the lower body paneling being the same color as the vehicle color. The Limited also boasted standard features such as leather seating, optional power sunroof, mirrors, seats, and remote keyless entry system; heated mirrors, and heated seats, a basic onboard computer; and waffle-like cast aluminum wheels.

In 1995 the performance of the V8 engine was upgraded to 300 ft·lbf (410 N·m) from 285 previously. 1996 brought cosmetic changes ranging from improved body modeling (grille, bumpers), and integrated foglights; interior features added dual airbags and increased fabric quality for seating. At the same time, the American Motors-fonted "Grand Cherokee" fender emblems were replaced with a font style used on other Chrysler vehicles. The AMC 4.0 L straight-6 engine, able to tow 5,000 lb, was also refined, through minimal loss in horsepower but gained more torque and presented quieter operation. Limited models that year and onward had more luxury items such as driver placement memory, remote radio control from the steering wheel, and variable assist while driving and parking. Between 1996-98, the export Grand Cherokee Laredo (marketed for Japan) had the optional Aspen package (source: The Story of Jeep).

Special edition ZJs

Throughout its lifetime, there were several different "one-off" and special edition models of the ZJ, including but not limited to the gold series. The following highlights several of these.

The 5.9L Limited ZJ (1998)

A Deep Slate 1998 Grand Cherokee 5.9L (Note hood louvers and mesh grill inserts)

The Grand Cherokee 5.9-Liter Limited was produced in limited numbers only for the 1998 model year, having more luxury and performance than that of the regular Limited and sold under the trim '5.9 Limited'. A similar trim was introduced in Europe under 'LX' trims (not 5.9L). There are only 15000 worldwide. Although it is not very expensive in North America, it is significantly pricer in the Middle East and Asia because of the low quantity. It housed a Magnum 5.9 L V8 engine with an output of 245 hp (183 kW) and 345 ft·lbf (468 N·m) of torque, going from zero to 60 mph (100 km/h) in only 7.3 seconds (Motor Trend measured this at a significantly faster 6.8 seconds see Motor Trend, January 1998, page 51.), making it the quickest SUV available that year. The straight-line performance of the 1998 Grand Cherokee 5.9 has been surpassed by Jeep only with the 2006 introduction of the 6.1 L SRT8 HEMI Grand Cherokee. The 1998 Grand Cherokee was Motor Trend's 4x4 of the year in 1998. Their rarity and performance make them highly sought after (see, e.g. the Grand Cherokee Forum on www.jeepsunlimited.com) Other features separated the 5.9 from the standard Limited model including:

functioning heat-extracting hood louvers
a mesh grille insert
unique five-spoke alloy wheels
black-wall tires
an improved premium 180 watt, 10 speaker infinity stereo system,
a rear speaker bar, roof mounted with 4 speakers
softer calf leather trim,
leather door inserts,
leather shift handle, e-brake and transfer case handle,
wood trim around the transmission shift handle base
a full-leather spare tire cover with multiple pockets
a flat back-row floor allowing for the comfortable seating of three
a center leather armrest in the rear seat
a lower-profile roof rack that eliminated squeaking problems found on the base 5.2L limited
monochromatic trim
molded rocker panels

The Grand Cherokee 5.9 further included additional performance-enhancing features including:

stronger transmission than the 5.2L with a heavier output shaft
standard Dana-44A(ALUM. HOUSING) rear differential with traction lock
electric fan
high-output alternator
freer-flowing exhaust with 3 inch pipes and a wide polished stainless steel exhaust tip

The 5.9 Limited was not available in all the regular Limited colors. It was available only in Deep Slate, Stone White, and Bright Platinum.

Jeep Grand Wagoneer (1993)

1993 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

For 1993 alone, Jeep carried over the Grand Wagoneer name for a special luxury version of the Grand Cherokee with the 5.2 L V8, this marked the last appearance for the Grand Wagoneer in the Jeep lineup. Having all the features of the Limited it featured a simulated wood grain body cladding, along with special Grand Wagoneer badging. These Jeep were the most costly of the line up, and were only produced in very limited numbers.

The Orvis Edition (1995-1997)

The Orvis (1995-1997) was a Grand Cherokee Limited package that featured an exterior color scheme of either Deep Hunter Green, or (less commonly) Light Driftwood, with red and gold side strip accents (1995). Green paint accents on the road wheels (matching the deep hunter green body color) and the special "Orvis" brand badging were the only significant exterior visual differences. However, the interior was special. Two-tone green and tan leather seats were complimented with red accent piping and Orvis insignia. Because it was an additional luxury trim package to the Limited, the Orvis Edition (when fully optioned) became the most expensive of all the Grand Cherokee versions until 1997.

TSi (1997-1998)

A sporty TSi model (1997-1998) briefly debuted, exterior features included single color body paneling, with lower indigo blue striping accent similar to that found on Eagle's Talon model. TSi packages came equipped with 5 spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, 225/70R16 tires, sport tuned suspension and steering, perforated leather seats, and a premium sound system. A 5.2 litre V8 was available. The TSi was priced between the Laredo and the Limited.

4x4

Four-wheel drive systems included Command-Trac, a part-time unit offering temporary 4-wheel assistance; Command-Trac was dropped from lineup in conjunction with the SE trim in 1996. Selec-Trac had the option of either full-time or part-time operation; both shift-on-the-fly Command-Trac and Selec-Trac were already available for the Cherokee, and they were adapted to the Grand Cherokee. Exclusive to the Grand Cherokee was the introduction of Quadra-Trac system with permanent all-time four-wheel assistance. This was standard on all Limited and most specialty trims, as well as optional on Laredo models. Rear wheel drive I6 models were sold though only for the Laredo in late 1993, while it was in 1994 when rear wheel drive was made available for the Limited. In 1997, the 5.2 L V8 engines were made optional in rear wheel drive models.

Suspension

An available "Up Country" package was offered. The suspension package included heavier duty gas charged shocks, along with various other suspension components improved.

Awards

The Grand Cherokee V8 was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list and was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1993. It was also Petersen's 4x4 of the Year in 1993, 1996 (with the redesigned NV249 transfer case), 1998 (with the newly available 5.9L V-8), 1999 (with its acclaimed 2nd generation model), 2001 (with the new 5-speed transmission), and 2005 (with its 3rd generation model).

Models

1993–1995 — Base "SE"
1993–1998 — Laredo
1993–1998 — Limited
1995–1997 — Orvis "Limited Edition"
1997–1998 — TSi
1993 Grand Wagoneer
1998 5.9 Limited

Engines

Years	Displacement	Engine	Power	Torque	Notes
1993–1998	2.5 L Diesel	425 OHV I4	114 hp (85 kW)	221 ft·lbf (300 N·m)	export
1993–1995	4.0 L	AMC I6	190 hp (142 kW)	225 ft·lbf (305 N·m)
1996–1998	4.0 L	AMC Power Tech I6	185 hp (138 kW)	225 ft·lbf (305 N·m)
1993–1998	5.2 L	Magnum V8	220 hp (164 kW)	300 ft·lbf (407 N·m)
1998	5.9 L	Magnum V8	245 hp (183 kW)	345 ft·lbf (468 N·m)	Limited

WJ (1999–2004)

WJ

Production	1999–2004
Assembly	Detroit, Michigan Graz, Austria Beijing, China
Platform	WJ
Engine(s)	4.0 L PowerTech I6 4.7 L PowerTech V8 4.7 L H.O. PowerTech V8 3.1 L 531 OHV I5 2.7 L OM647 I5
Transmission(s)	4-speed 45RFE automatic 5-speed 545RFE automatic
Wheelbase	105.9 in (2690 mm)
Length	1999-2000: 181.5 in (4610 mm) 2001-03: 181.6 in (4613 mm) 2004: 181.3 in (4605 mm)
Width	1999-2000 & 2004: 72.3 in (1836 mm) 2001-03: 72.6 in (1844 mm)
Height	1999-2000 & 2004: 69.4 in (1763 mm) 2001-03: 70.3 in (1786 mm)
Curb weight	3669 lb (1664 kg)

The redesigned WJ 1999 Grand Cherokee shared just 127 parts with its predecessor. The structure was stiffened by Porsche Engineering for sharper steering and lighter weight. The spare tire was relocated from the side of the cargo compartment to under the floor to great relief of owners. The two heavy pushrod V8 engines were replaced by a single aluminum SOHC unit, Chrysler's then-new PowerTech. Although this engine produced less torque than both previous V8s, it was lighter and got much better fuel economy and provided similar on road performance figures. While other Jeep vehicles used the Mopar 5 x 4.5 bolt circle, this was the first Jeep following the 1987 Chrysler buyout to receive a wider bolt pattern — 5 x 5. The 5 x 5 bolt pattern (also 5 x 127 mm), although common to GM rear wheel drive vehicles and light duty trucks/vans, has spread beyond its use with GM (and Ford with their 1973 to 1978 LTDs and Lincolns). Chrysler first used the 5 x 5 pattern on full-size half-ton Dodge Ram pickups and Dodge Ramcharger SUVs in 1986. A notable feature that was available this generation was the automatic four wheel drive option called Quadra-Drive. With three viscous clutches, it was one of only a few four wheel drive systems at the time with triple locking differentals, joining the contemporary Mercedes Gelandewagen, Mercedes Unimog and Magna Steyr Pinzgauer, and the only one of the four with fully automatic operation, although the axle differentials could not be manually locked like in the other three vehicles.

Pre- and post-facelifted WJ Grand Cherokees, right and left respectively

The 45RFE automatic transmission in the WJ was notable. It included three planetary gear sets rather than the two normally used in a four-speed automatic. This gave it six theoretical speeds, and it would have been the first six-speed transmission ever produced in volume, but it was programmed to only use five of these ratios. Four were used for upshifts, with a different second gear for downshifts. Although five of the six ratios were used, Chrysler decided to call it a "4-speed automatic".

The Grand Cherokee received a minor facelift for 2004.

Models

The Laredo and luxurious Limited trim levels were standard models. Specialty models:

2002–2003 — Sport
2002–2004 — Special Edition
2002–2004 — Overland
2003–2004 — Columbia Edition

These specialty models appeared for a brief time, The Sport was slightly more equipped than the Laredo and offered a very discrete two-tone black trim interior for style. The Special Edition was introduced offering the same quality of the Limited, differences include 4.7 L V8 engine and slightly revised, Special Edition came with premium interior details, Plush Leather seats, AM-FM, In-Dash CD/Cassette along with ten disc CD changer stowed in a well thought location in within cargo space. Special Edition Trim package from bumper to bumper was presented with a fully polished, non-textured finish. Front grille debut was standard issue on the Special Edition. The Overland (appropriated after the former Jeep parent, Willys-Overland) was the top-of-the-line along side the Special Edition the 4.7 L High Output engine V8 initially debuted as the standard powerhouse. Alongside a wealth of standard features such as plusher interior trim with "Overland" badging, mid-2003 came a revised strong black two-tone trim interior and Built-in GPS equipped with the model. Front and side-curtain airbags, an Infinity sound system with 10-disc changer, heated/power front seats, integrated rock rails, power sunroof, wood/leather steering wheel and 17 in alloy wheels were also standard. The Columbia Edition offered the usual features of the other specialty models besides a strong unique two-tone interior with "Columbia Sportswear" badging, with the 4.7 L H.O. engine and GPS optional.

Chinese Production

Beijing Jeep Corporation, Ltd. had been producing the XJ classic Cherokee since 1984, and in 2004 they bought the old tooling for the WJ Grand Cherokee when the WK was introduced for the USA as a 2005 model. After some tooling up time, the WJ was introduced in 2006 for the Chinese market as the Jeep 4000 and 4700 Grand Cherokee (for the 4.0 I-6 and 4.7 V8, inc. HO, models respectively). It was their flagship model and nearly identical to the 2004 Grand Cherokee Limited in looks and equipment, including the solid axle suspension, choice of 4wd systems, body color cladding, alloy wheels, Chrysler sound systems, and Chrysler automatic climate controls. This is unlike the XJ Cherokee that was significantly modified by Beijing Jeep for the Chinese market. The current model is now sold in China.^[1]

Engines

Years	Displacement	Engine	Power	Torque	Notes
1998–2004	4.0 L	Power Tech I6	195 hp (145 kW)	230 ft·lbf @3000 rpm
1999–2004	4.7 L	PowerTech V8	235 hp (175 kW)	295 ft·lbf @3200 rpm
2002–2004	4.7 L	High Output PowerTech V8	265 hp (198 kW)	330 ft·lbf (447 N·m)
1999-2001	3.1 L Diesel	531 OHV Diesel I5	138 hp (103 kW)	283 ft·lbf (384 Nm)	available in Europe
2002-2004	2.7 L Diesel	OM647 Diesel I5	161 hp (120 kW)	295 ft·lbf(400 Nm)	available in Europe and Australia only

Detroit Diesel/VM Motori

The 3.1 litre turbo-diesel on the 1999 Grand Cherokee was developed in conjunction with Detroit Diesel/VM Motori. It has an electronic injection pump, electronically-controlled, vacuum-actuated exhaust gas recirculation, and a special catalyst to control oxides of nitrogen (NOx). Manufactured in Cento, Italy, at 13,000 units per year. It was available in European models and meets the European stage III emissions.

Displacement: 3,124 cc
Power: 104 kW/140 bhp
Torque: 367 Nm/271 ft·lbf
Transmission: Four speed electronically controlled automatic

WK (2005–present)

WK

Production	2005–present
Assembly	Detroit, Michigan Graz, Austria
Platform	WK
Engine(s)	3.7 L PowerTech V6 4.7 L PowerTech V8 5.7 L Hemi V8 6.1 L Hemi V8 (SRT-8) 3.0 L OM642 V6
Transmission(s)	5-speed 545RFE automatic 5-speed W5A580 automatic
Wheelbase	109.5 in (2781 mm)
Length	186.7 in (4742 mm) 2005-07 SRT-8: 195.1 in (4953 mm)
Width	84.2 in (2139 mm)
Height	2005-07: 67.4 in (1712 mm) 2008-present: 68.7 in (1745 mm) 2008-present SRT8: 66.7 in (1694 mm)
Curb weight	4490 lb (2037 kg)
Related	Jeep Commander

The all-new WK Grand Cherokee debuted in 2004 for the 2005 model year. Features available for the first time in a Jeep included Quadra-Drive II four-wheel drive, rear-seat DVD player and optional 5.7L Hemi V-8. The design still emphasizes power and luxury, with significant work done on improving noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). However, for the first time, Jeep also emphasized on-road performance to a similar extent as the cornerstone of its brand, off-road capability. This newfound emphasis on on-road refinement led Jeep to replace the live-axle with leading-arms front suspension (found in the ZJ and WJ) with a new design: an independent double-wishbone setup like that which debuted in the 2002 Liberty. The new Jeep changed its philosophy due to what it perceived as increasing demand in the SUV marketplace for on-road performance and decreasing demand for off-road capability, and though the new design is perceived to be more smooth over washboard-types of roads, the new front suspension was criticized by off-roading Jeep community for its inability to provide optimal axle articulation during low-speed, technical maneuvers, specifically over uneven terrain. The 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee made its European debut at the Euro Camp Jeep held in Ardèche, France.

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Grand Cherokee received a minor facelift for 2008.

Models

2005–present — Laredo
2005–present — Limited
2006–present — Overland
2006–present — SRT-8

Engines

Years	Engine	Power	Torque	Notes
2005–	3.7 L PowerTech V6	210 hp	235 lbf-ft	Laredo
2005–2007	4.7 L PowerTech V8	275 hp	305 lbf-ft	Laredo, Limited
2008–	4.7 L PowerTech V8	305 hp	334 lbf-ft	Limited
2005–	5.7 L Hemi V8	330 hp	375 lbf-ft	Limited, Overland
2006–	6.1 L Hemi V8	425 hp	420 lbf-ft	SRT-8
2005 (2007 in NA)–	3.0 L OM642 V6	215 hp	376 lbf-ft	Laredo, Limited, Overland

Notes

The 4.7 L High Output engine that first appeared with the Grand Cherokee Overland WJ was dropped from the current Jeep lineup. It is now used exclusively in the Dodge Dakota.

SRT-8

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

An SRT-8 (Sport Racing Technology V8) version of the Grand Cherokee debuted at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. Powered by a 420 hp (Expression error: Unrecognised punctuation character "{" kW) version of the 6.1 L Hemi, it also features upgraded Brembo brakes, large dual performance exhaust with polished tips (exiting out the middle of the rear so towing becomes a problem), performance gas charged shocks and modified suspension components, the transmission from the European Diesel Grand Cherokee, an electronic all-wheel-drive system and interior and exterior updates. A road test of the 2006 model by Road & Track magazine proved that the stock SRT8 is "focused 100 percent on performance; road performance, that is” with sports car performance numbers, including 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and to the quarter mile dragstrip in 13.2 seconds at 104.1 miles per hour (167.5 km/h).^[2] To achieve superior on-road handling, important off-road gear has been removed to make the SRT-8 lighter. The SRT-8 has no low range case and no limited slip or locking differentials. Its ride stance is significantly lower and the deep chin spoiler giving it a low ground clearance for an SUV. Because of its lack of off-road capability, Jeep has not given the SRT8 its "Trail Rated" mark.

Hennessey SRT600

The Jeep SRT8 upgrade by Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE) out-accelerates a stock Dodge Viper by more than a car length at 60 mph (0-to-60 mph in 3.4 seconds, 1.4 seconds quicker than stock) and beats the SRT10 Viper in the quarter mile.^[3] With a turbocharged 6.1 L Hemi V8 inside, the exterior modifications consist of a few SRT600 badges and optional 20x10.5-inch forged-aluminum wheels wrapped in grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 2 295/30ZR20 tires.

Diesel

In Europe and South America, a V6 CRD engine was available from introduction in 2005:

OM642 3.0 L CRD V6 Turbo Diesel with VGT, 218 hp DIN (160 kW) and 376 ft·lbf (510 N·m)

In North America and elsewhere a BlueTec 3.0L V6 CRD is available from 2007. It includes a diesel particulate filter to reduce exhaust emissions. It's currently found in the Mercedes-Benz ML320.

References

Phil Berg. "Jeep Grand Cherokee Preview". Car and Driver (August 1998): 69–70.

^ Jeep's China web page, retrieved on November 17 2007.
^ Monticello, Mike. "Chariots with Fire" Road & Track magazine November 2006, retrieved on December 23 2007.
^ Performance Road Test: 2006 Hennessey SRT600 Jeep SRT8 by Motor Trend's Truck Trend magazine, retrieved on December 23 2007.

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Dispatcher											DJ-3A										DJ-5/6
Crossover																	FJ-3/3A																																														Compass MK
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Compact SUV				VJ																		C101						C104												Cherokee/Wagoneer XJ																		Liberty KJ						Liberty KK
SUV																			Wagoneer/Cherokee SJ																					G Wagoneer									G Cherokee ZJ						G Cherokee WJ						G Cherokee WK
		Willys Jeep Wagon																																																												Commander XK
Pickup			Willys Jeep Truck																																							Comanche MJ
																			Gladiator								Honcho/J10-20 Series
Truck												Forward Control