JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
The 'Jeep Grand Cherokee' is a mid-size sport utility vehicle produced by the Jeep division of DaimlerChrysler. 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)
The 'ZJ' models, manufactured from 1993 to 1998, originally came in three general trims, the 'Base', 'Laredo', and the 'Limited'. The Base model (later renamed 'SE' in 1994) offered basic features such as full instruments, cloth interior, a standard five-speed manual transmission (93-94), and other optional equipment found on Laredo; The SE model was dropped in 1996 due to lack of consumer demand. The Laredo was the mid-scale model (base model after 1996), 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 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-lb 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, though receiving slightly less hp 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. The following highlights several of these.
The 5.9L Limited ZJ (1998)
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 worwide. 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 and 345 ft·lbf of torque, going from zero to 60 mph 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 said to be the best 4x4 that year, performing like a sports car with fast acceleration and its Quadrac Trac 4x4 system that gave it excellent handling. It was able to compete against many sporty-type sedans and some previous two-door muscle cars. Their rarity and performance make them highly sought after.
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 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-44 rear differential with traction lock
- electric fan
- high-output alternator
- freer-flowing exhaust with 2 1/4 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)
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 introduction of a new transfer case) and in 1998, with its 5.9 Limited 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 lb-ft (300 N·m) | ''export'' |
| 1993–1995 | 4.0 L | ''AMC'' I6 | 190 hp (142 kW) | 225 lb-ft | |
| 1996–1998 | 4.0 L | ''AMC Power Tech'' I6 | 185 hp (138 kW) | 225 lb-ft | |
| 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) (Chinese production 2006-present)
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 Mopar 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).
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 all wheel drive systems at the time with triple locking differentals, and the only fully automatic, joining the contemporary Mercedes Gelandewagen, Mercedes Unimog and Magna Steyr Pinzgauer, all of which featured standard full-locking axle and transfer case differentials.
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".
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). [2].
It is 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 which was significantly modified by Beijing Jeep for the Chinese market and is still sold as an entry level model.
Engines
| Years | Displacement | Engine | Power | Torque | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998–2004 | 4.0 L | ''Power Tech'' I6 | 195 hp (145 kW) | 230 lb-ft @3000 rpm | |
| 1998–2004 | 4.7 L | ''PowerTech'' V8 | 235 hp (175 kW) | 295 lb-ft | |
| 2002–2004 | 4.7 L | High Output ''PowerTech'' V8 | 265 hp (198 kW) | 330 lb-ft | |
| 1999-2001 | 3.1 L Diesel | ''531 OHV'' Diesel I5 | 138 hp (103 kW) | 283 lb-ft (384 Nm) | available in Europe |
| 2002-2004 | 2.7 L Diesel | ''OM647'' Diesel I5 | 161 hp (120 kW) | 295 lb-ft(400Nm) | 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 is available in European models and meets the European stage III emissions.
★ Displacement: 3,124cc
★ Power: 104 Kw/140 bhp
★ Torque: 367 Nm/271 lb-ft
★ Transmission: Four speed electronically controlled automatic
WK (2005–present)
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 and a rear-seat DVD player.
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, prized by off-roading Jeep fans for its ability to maintain consistent ground clearance and provide optimal wheel articulation, with a double-wishbone independent setup like that which debuted in the 2002 Liberty. 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.
The 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee made its European debut at the Euro Camp Jeep held in Ardèche, France.
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 | 235 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 | 420 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
An ''SRT-8'' version of the Grand Cherokee debuted at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. Powered by a 420 hp (310 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), performance gas charged shocks and modified suspension components, a special transfer case, an electronic all-wheel-drive system and interior and exterior updates. It is the fastest production SUV, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds, faster than the Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes-Benz ML63, the two closest competitors.
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·lb (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
★ Jeep Grand Cherokee Preview, Phil Berg, , , Car and Driver,
External links
★ Official Jeep Grand Cherokee Site
★ 2007 European Debut
★ Pages with the design development
★ Forum Exclusively for the 2005+ WK
★ AutoGuideWiki.com
★ wjjeeps.com
★
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