Jeep Grand Cherokee

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Jeep Grand Cherokee
2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ)
ManufacturerChrysler Corporation (1993-98)
Magna Steyr
DaimlerChrysler (1998–2007)
Chrysler LLC 2008–present
Production1993–present
PredecessorJeep Grand Wagoneer
ClassMid-size SUV
Body style(s)4-door SUV
LayoutFront engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive
ManualsService Manual

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

Development

The Grand Cherokee's origins date back to 1983 when American Motors (AMC) engineers were designing a successor to the smaller Jeep Cherokee (XJ).[1] Three outside (non-AMC) designers — Larry Shinoda, Adam Clenet, and Giorgetto Giugiaro — were under contract with AMC to create and build a clay model of the replacement model, then known as the "XJC" project.[2] However, the basic design for the Cherokee's replacement was well under way by AMC's in-house designers and the 1989 Jeep Concept 1 show car foretold the basic design.[3]

The Grand Cherokee was the first Chrysler-badged Jeep product. Development work for the new model continued and 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
1993–1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
Also calledJeep Grand Wagoneer
Production1993–1998
AssemblyDetroit, Michigan
Graz, Austria
PlatformZJ
Engine(s)4.0 L AMC 242 I6 4.0 L Power Tech I65.2 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 44RH automatic
4-speed 44RE automatic
4-speed 46RH automatic
4-speed 46RE automatic
Wheelbase105.9 in (2690 mm)
Length1993-95: 176.7 in (4488 mm)
1996-98: 177.2 in (4500 mm)
Width1996-98: 69.2 in (1758 mm)
1993-95 2WD: 69.3 in (1760 mm)
1993-95 4WD: 70.7 in (1795 mm)
Height64.9 in (1648 mm)
Curb weight3614 lb (1640 kg)
1996–1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo

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 forever. 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 lb·ft (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 "Grand Cherokee" fender emblems in the American Motors-typeface were replaced with the typeface used on other Chrysler vehicles. The AMC 4.0 L straight-6 engine, able to tow 5,000 lb (2,300 kg), was also refined, through minimal loss in power 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 5.9 Limited was a Jeep Grand Cherokee produced only for the 1998 model year, having more luxury and performance than that of the regular Limited. Chrysler churned out nearly a quarter million Grand Cherokees in 1998. Of those, less than fifteen thousand were 5.9s. It housed a Magnum 5.9 L V8 engine with an output of 245 hp (183 kW) and 345 lb·ft (468 N·m) of torque, going from zero to 60 mph (100 km/h) in only 7.3 seconds[5] (Motor Trend measured this at a slightly faster 6.8 seconds [6]see Motor Trend, January 1998, page 51), making it the quickest SUV available that year. The power of the 1998 5.9L V8 has been surpassed by Jeep only with the 2006 introduction of the 420hp, 6.1L SRT8 HEMI. The 5.9 Jeep Grand Cherokee was named the 1998 four-wheel drive vehicle of the year by Peterson's 4-wheel & Off-Road . [7] Other features separated the 5.9 from the standard Limited model including[8]:

  • Functioning heat-extracting hood louvers
  • Mesh grille insert
  • Five-spoke alloy Ultrastar wheels
  • Black-wall tires
  • An improved premium 180 watt, 10 speaker Infinity stereo system
  • A rear speaker bar for additional infinity speakers
  • Calf-grain, soft leather seats and trim
  • Leather door inserts
  • Leather shift handle, e-brake and transfer case handle
  • Enhanced faux wood trim throughout, additionally 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 squeeking problems found on the base 5.2l limited
  • Molded rocker panels
  • Stock foglights
  • Stock power sunroof/moonroof


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

  • A stronger 46RE transmission than the 5.2L with a heavier output shaft
  • Quadradrive heavy duty NV249 transfer case
  • Standard trac-lock rear differential
  • An electric fan
  • A high-output 150A alternator
  • Lower restriction exhaust and chrome plated exhaust tip [9]
Further Statistics from Motor Trend January, 1998[10]
Model Production Total Percent
1993–1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee "ZJ" 1,428,095[11] 100.00%
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 247,372 17.32%
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited 14,286 1.00%
5.9 Limited w/Federal Emissions 10,051 0.70%
5.9 Limited w/CA Emissions 4,235 0.30%

References

  1. The development of the Jeep Grand Cherokee design, undated, retrieved on 2008-05-18.
  2. Rothenberg, Al (March 1, 1998), "Design Debate - Who's the father of the Jeep Grand Cherokee?", Ward's AutoWorld, http://wardsautoworld.com/ar/auto_design_debate_whos/index.html, retrieved on 18 May 2008 .
  3. Image of the 1989 Jeep Concept 1 show car, retrieved on 2008-05-18.
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 Jeep. XJ 4.0L sec9 page115, Service Manual 2000 Jeep Cherokee (Print and pdf). DiamlerChrysler. Retrieved on 2008-05-01. “bore x stroke = 3.88 x 3.413 in”
  5. Peterson's 4-wheel & Off-road, February 1998, at 81
  6. Motor Trend, January 1998, page 51
  7. Peterson's 4-wheel & Off-road, February 1998, at 81
  8. ID.
  9. Kolak (07-19-2008). "Are Niner parts used on other Mopar vehicles?". Jeeps Unlimited - Speed Freaks. http://www.jeepsunlimited.com/forums/showpost.php?p=8554928&postcount=14. Retrieved on 2008-07-19. 
  10. Motortrend, January 1998
  11. Unknown (07-18-2008). "WJ sales, production dates & milestones". WJ Jeeps. http://www.wjjeeps.com/production.htm. Retrieved on 2008-07-18. 

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, and a unique leather interior. This Jeep was the most costly of the line up, and was produced in limited numbers.

The Orvis Edition (1995–1997)

1996 Grand Cherokee Orvis

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. In performance, the 5.2 V8 engine became standard, but was available with a 4.0 inline 6 cylinder engine. Also, all Orvis editions were installed with tow hooks and the Up-Country suspension group. However, the interior was special. Two-tone green and tan leather seats were complimented with red accent piping and Orvis insignia. There was a slight difference between the 1996 and 1997 years' interior compared to each other. The 1996 had a black dash where the 1997 had a tan dash, this is an easy way to tell the difference between the two. 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 1998 when the 5.9 Limited was introduced.

Production numbers of the Orvis Editions are:
1995- 10,020
1996- 2,341
1997- 2,733

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 the Eagle Talon model. TSi packages came equipped with 5 spoke 16-inch (410 mm) 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 German made gas charged shocks installed upside down, taller coil springs and longer bump stops

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 (242 CID) AMC I6 190 hp (142 kW) 225 lb·ft (305 N·m)
1996–1998 4.0 L (242 CID) AMC Power Tech I6 185 hp (138 kW) 225 lb·ft (305 N·m)
1993–1998 5.2 L (318 CID) Magnum V8 230 hp (164 kW) 300 ft·lbf (407 N·m)
1998 5.9 L (360 CID) Magnum V8 245 hp (183 kW) 345 ft·lbf (468 N·m) Limited

WJ (1999–2004)

WJ
1999–2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
Production1999–2004
AssemblyDetroit, Michigan
Graz, Austria
Beijing, China
PlatformWJ
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 42RE automatic
45RFE automatic
5-speed 545RFE automatic
Wheelbase105.9 in (2690 mm)
Length1999–2000: 181.5 in (4610 mm)
2001-03: 181.6 in (4613 mm)
2004: 181.3 in (4605 mm)
Width1999–2000 & 2004: 72.3 in (1836 mm)
2001-03: 72.6 in (1844 mm)
Height1999–2000 & 2004: 69.4 in (1763 mm)
2001-03: 70.3 in (1786 mm)
Curb weight3669 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 chrysler's first clean sheet V8 since the 60's (SOHC aluminium heads, plastic intake), 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 (the 23 gallon fuel tank was replaced with one of a 20.5 gallon capacity). The Inline 6 engine was also updated in 1999. 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) was added by redesigning the intake manifold. The manual transmission was dropped with this model.

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 available in this generation was the automatic four wheel drive option called Quadra-Drive II. 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.

The 45RFE and 545RFE 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". In 2001, the programming was changed to make use of all six ratios. Rather than have six forward gears, the transmission was programmed to act as a five-speed with the alternate second gear for downshifts. The RPM at 70 miles per hour on a 545RFE is 2000 RPM, 200 rpm less than the 45RFE programming. 1999 and 2000 model year WJ owners can have their 45RFE transmission's programming flashed to enable the extra gear as both transmissions are physically the same. The 42RE 4-speed automatic remained the transmission for the Inline 6 engine. It was not changed from the previous model Grand Cherokee's.

The interior was also completely redesigned in 1999. The redesign allowed for larger rear doors, and more space for rear passengers. Controls for various items like headlights, heated seats, and rear wiper were moved to more convenient locations. The electronic Vehicle Information center was moved from below the radio to above the windshield, and was standard on all 2000 and up models. Limited models included automatic dual-zone climate control. A 10 CD-Changer was also available with the Infinity Audio package.

The Grand Cherokee received a minor facelift for 2004.

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

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 alongside the Special Edition the 4.7 L High Output engine V8 initially debuted as the standard motor. 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 (242 CID) Power Tech I6 195 hp (145 kW) 230 ft·lbf @3000 rpm
1999–2004 4.7 L (287 CID) PowerTech V8 235 hp (175 kW) 290 ft·lbf @3200 rpm
2002–2004 4.7 L (287 CID) High Output PowerTech V8 265 hp (198 kW) 330 lb·ft (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: 3124 cc (191 CID)
  • Power: 104 kW/140 bhp
  • Torque: 367 Nm/271 ft·lbf
  • Transmission: Four speed electronically controlled automatic

WK (2005–2010)

WK
2005–2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Production2005–present
AssemblyDetroit, Michigan
Graz, Austria
PlatformWK
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 CRD
Transmission(s)5-speed 545RFE automatic
5-speed W5A580 automatic
Wheelbase109.5 in (2781 mm)
Length186.7 in (4742 mm)
2005-07 SRT-8: 195.1 in (4953 mm)
Width73.3 in (1862 mm)
Height2005-07: 67.4 in (1712 mm)
2008–present: 68.7 in (1745 mm)
2008–present SRT8: 66.7 in (1694 mm)
Curb weight4490 lb (2037 kg)
RelatedJeep 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. The bottom part of the headlights became rounded, and the lower portion of the front bumper became removable to increase the approach angle for off-road use.

The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with an improved 5.7-liter HEMI rated at 357 horsepower (266 kW) and 389 ft·lbf. (527 N•m) of torque. The engine uses variable valve timing to increase fuel economy.[7]

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 265 hp 305 lbf-ft Laredo, Limited
2008– 4.7 L power tech V8 305 hp 334 lbf-ft Limited
2005– 5.7 L Hemi V8 345 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. The WK is known as a WH in International (i.e. non-US) markets

SRT-8

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

An SRT-8 (Street and Racing Technology V8) version of the Grand Cherokee debuted at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. Powered by a 420 hp (313 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), Bilstein performance gas charged shocks and modified suspension components, Mercedes-Benz NAG1 (WA580) 5-speed transmission, unique NV146 transfer case, specially designed electronic all-wheel-drive system and interior and exterior updates. A drive shaft from a diesel application, fortified Dana 44 rear differential, and 12" wide Goodyear tires in the rear (11" in the front) complement the performance package. The sports tuned suspension allows the Jeep SRT8 to hold 0.92g on the skid-pad, putting the 4,700 lb (2,100 kg) truck on par with the Porsche 911 Turbo (997), which holds just 0.04g more (0.96g) on the skid-pad. A road test of the 2006 model by Road & Track magazine yielded a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.6 seconds and a quarter mile dragstrip of 13.2 seconds at 104.1 miles per hour (167.5 km/h). Such numbers made the SRT-8 Grand Cherokee the fastest accelerating vehicle within the SRT8 lineup (which at the time included the Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300C), and second only to the SRT10 Viper among all SRT tuned vehicles. There is no electronic speed governor employed, leaving the top speed rev-limited (revving to redline in top gear) to just shy of 170 MPH.[8]

To achieve superior on-road handling, 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 front fascia spoiler gives the vehicle 7 inches (178 mm) of ground clearance. The Grand Cherokee SRT-8 was the first SRT vehicle to wear the Jeep emblem.

The Jeep SRT8 drive-line stayed the same from the 2006 to 2010 model years, with major changes slated for the 4th generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (2nd generation Jeep SRT8) set to debut in 2011. [9]

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.[10] 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

2008 Grand Cherokee with 3.0 V6 Turbo Diesel

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

OM642 3.0 L CRD V6 Turbo Diesel with Variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). It produces 218 horsepower (163 kW; 221 PS) and 376 lb·ft (510 N·m) of torque at 1,600 to 2,800 rpm.

In North America and elsewhere this BlueTec 3.0 L V6 CRD became available since 2007. It includes a diesel particulate filter to reduce exhaust emissions.

This engine is also used in the Mercedes-Benz ML320.

Next-generation (2011– )

The next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee will begin with the 2011 model year. It will feature a unibody construction and a fuel-efficient V6 engine that is being developed under the codename Phoenix.[11] The company announced a $1.8 billion, 285,000 square feet (26,477 m2) expansion of its Jefferson North Assembly plant to allow flexible manufacture of the next-generation model, as well as other undisclosed products off the same platform that was developed jointly with Mercedes.[11] The model will introduce many new features to the WK line.

Total American Sales

Calendar Year Sales
1999[12] 300,031
2000 271,723
2001[13] 223,612
2002[14] 224,233
2003 207,479
2004[15] 137,148
2005 115,439
2006[16] 139,148
2007 120,937
2008[17] 73,678

References

  1. Jeep's China web page, retrieved on November 17 2007.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 "Jeep - Specs & Upgrades:". Chrysler LLC. http://www.jeep.com/bridge/vehsuite.html?app=vehiclespecs&family=commander&model=Technical&zipcode=10101&year=2008. Retrieved on 2008-05-06. 
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 "Jeep - Specs & Upgrades:". Chrysler LLC. http://www.jeep.com/bridge/vehsuite.html?app=vehiclespecs&family=commander&model=Technical&zipcode=10101&year=2008. Retrieved on 2008-05-06. 
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 "Jeep - Specs & Upgrades:". Chrysler LLC. http://www.jeep.com/bridge/vehsuite.html?app=vehiclespecs&family=commander&model=Technical&zipcode=10101&year=2008. Retrieved on 2008-05-06. 
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 "Jeep - Specs & Upgrades:". Chrysler LLC. http://www.jeep.com/bridge/vehsuite.html?app=vehiclespecs&family=grand_cherokee&model=Technical&zipcode=10101&year=2008. Retrieved on 2008-05-13. 
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  13. http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2003/01/04/152240.html
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References

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

External links