Jeep Grand Cherokee

Infobox Automobile


name = Jeep Grand Cherokee
manufacturer = Chrysler Corporation (1993-98)
Magna Steyr
DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007)
Chrysler LLC 2008-present
production = 1993–present
class = Mid-size SUV
body_style = 4-door SUV
layout=Front engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive
predecessor = Jeep Grand Wagoneer

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). [ [http://faculty.concord.edu/chrisz/hobby/93-Jeep2design.html The development of the Jeep Grand Cherokee design, undated] , retrieved on 2008-05-18.] 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. [Citation
last = Rothenberg
first = Al
title = Design Debate - Who's the father of the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
journal = Ward's AutoWorld | date = March 1, 1998
url = http://wardsautoworld.com/ar/auto_design_debate_whos/index.html | accessdate = 2008-05-18 .] 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. [ [http://faculty.concord.edu/chrisz/hobby/93-JeepItems/89jeepShowCar-l.jpgImage of the 1989 Jeep Concept 1 show car] , retrieved on 2008-05-18.]

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)

Infobox Automobile generation


boxcolor = lightgreen
name = ZJ
assembly = Detroit, Michigan
Graz, Austria
aka = Jeep Grand Wagoneer
production = 1993–1998
platform = ZJ
engine = 4.0 L "AMC 242" I6Collapsible list
title = Complete engine specscite manual
author = Jeep
title = Service Manual 2000 Jeep Cherokee
section = XJ 4.0L sec9 page115
sectionurl =
version =
publisher = DiamlerChrysler
date = 2000
url =
format = Print and pdf
id =
accessdate = 2008-05-01
quote = bore x stroke = 3.88 x 3.413 in ]
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 = nowrap| •Displacement: 242.1 CID (3,968 cc)
2 = nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.413|in|mm|0|abbr=on
3 = nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.88|in|mm|0|abbr=on
4 =nowrap| •Power: n/a
5 =nowrap| •Torque: n/a
6 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
7 = 4.0 L "Power Tech " I6Collapsible list
title = Complete engine specscite manual
author = Jeep
title = Service Manual 2000 Jeep Cherokee
section = XJ 4.0L sec9 page115
sectionurl =
version =
publisher = DiamlerChrysler
date = 2000
url =
format = Print and pdf
id =
accessdate = 2008-05-01
quote = bore x stroke = 3.88 x 3.413 in ]
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 = nowrap| •Displacement: 242.1 CID (3,968 cc)
2 = nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.413|in|mm|0|abbr=on
3 = nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.88|in|mm|0|abbr=on
4 =nowrap| •Power: n/a
5 =nowrap| •Torque: n/a
6 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
7 =5.2 L "Magnum" V8
5.9 L "Magnum" V8
2.5 L "425 OHV" I4
transmission = 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
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)
weight = 3614 lb (1640 kg)
wheelbase = 105.9 in (2690 mm)-like cast aluminum wheels.

In 1995 the performance of the V8 engine was upgraded to Auto ft.lbf|300|-1 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, 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)

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 displacing 360 cubic inches with an output of Convert|245|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and Auto ft.lbf|345|0 of torque, going from zero to convert|60|mi/h|km/h|-1|abbr=on 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.jeepforum.com and JeepsUnlimited.com, as well as the Speed Freaks Forum on 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 in 2 locations
• 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-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)

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)

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. 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 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

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

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 Convert|420|hp|kW|0|abbr=on 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. It has a base MSRP of $40,230 USD. [ [http://autos.yahoo.com/2007_jeep_grand_cherokee_srt_8-slideshow/?tab=gen&i=izp_instrumentcluster&a=all#imgs Slideshow &#8212 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 — Yahoo! Autos ] ] 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 4.6 seconds and to the quarter mile dragstrip in 13.2 seconds at convert|104.1|mph|1. 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 Viper among all Daimler-Chrysler SRT 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. [ [http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=3&article_id=4065&page_number=3 Monticello, Mike. "Chariots with Fire" Road & Track magazine November 2006] , retrieved on January 24 2008]

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 convert|7|in|0 of ground clearance. The Grand Cherokee SRT-8 was the first SRT vehicle to wear the Jeep emblem.

The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is equipped with a reconfigurable display that displays performance information including longitudinal and lateral g-force, 0-60 mph acceleration time, 1/8-mile and 1/4-mile acceleration time, and speed and braking distance. [cite web|url=http://www.jeephorizons.com/news/09_grand_cherokee_srt8_090108.html|title= 2009 Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT8|work=jeephorizons.com|accessmonthday=September 3 |accessyear=2008]

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. [ [http://www.trucktrend.com/roadtests/suv/163_0704_2006_hennessey_srt600_jeep_srt8/specs_pricing.html Performance Road Test: 2006 Hennessey SRT600 Jeep SRT8 by Motor Trend's Truck Trend magazine] , retrieved on December 23 2007.] 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, 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 Convert|218|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=off and convert|376|lbft|0|abbr=on 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 (2010– )

The next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee will be in 2010 with a unibody construction and a fuel-efficient V6 engine that is being developed under the codename Phoenix. [http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080813/ANA02/569163889/1129 Barkholz, David. "Chrysler to build fuel efficient Grand Cherokee" Automotive News, August 13, 2008] , retrieved on August 13, 2008.] The company announced a $1.8 billion, convert|285000|sqft|0|afj=on 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.

References

;Inline;General
*cite journal|journal=Car and Driver|author=Phil Berg|pages=69–70|issue=August 1998|title=Jeep Grand Cherokee Preview

External links

* [http://www.jeep.com/grand_cherokee/index.html Official Jeep Grand Cherokee Site]
* [http://www.archive.org/details/747__Jeep_Cherokee_ Only in a Jeep] . Public Domain Jeep promo video.