Jeep Grand Cherokee



The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV made by Jeep, a division of DaimlerChrysler. European Grand Cherokees are manufactured in Austria by Magna Steyr.

See Wikicars' comprehensive Jeep Grand Cherokee Review.

Recent Changes

 * the 2010 LA Auto Show played host to the unveiling of the range's flagship Grand Cherokee Overland Summit. Available in Rugged Brown, Mineral Gray, White Gold or Black, the car features extra chrome brightwork, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, unique Black Olive burl real wood trim in an interior swathed in saddle-color Nappa leather, Berber floor mats with Black and Chestnut accent binding complete the look. Other creature comforts include Advanced Warning System and Adaptive Cruise Control group, which consists of Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-path detection systems. Pricing for the Grand Cherokee Overland Summit edition starts at $42,495 (plus $780 destination) for 4x2 models, and $45,995 (plus $780 destination) for the 4x4 versions.

Styles and Major Options
The 2011 Grand Cherokee comes in three trims: the Laredo, Limited and Overland. All trim levels come standard with an all-new 290-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 engine boasting an 11 percent improvement in fuel economy, delivering up to 23 mpg and over 500 miles on one tank of gas. Features for each trim are as follows:

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4

Standard features on the Laredo 4x4 model includes Quadra-Trac I 4x4 system, 3.6-liter V-6 engine, Keyless Enter-N-Go, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Trailer-Sway Control, front-seat side air bags and side-curtain air bags for front and rear, active head restraints, power 8-way driver seat with power 4-way lumbar adjust, fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Optional features include a 360-horsepower 5.7-liter V-8 engine and a Trailer Tow Group.

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4x4

Limited 4x4 models add features that include Quadra-Trac II® 4x4 system with Selec-Terrain, front and second-row heated leather seats, memory settings, Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge auto-leveling headlamps with SmartBeam®, CommandView dual-pane panoramic sun roof, Parkview® rear back-up camera, Parksense® rear park assist, premium audio, automatic temperature control, 18-inch aluminum wheels, Garmin® navigation, rain-sensitive wipers and bright door handles.

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4x4

Overland 4x4 models add numerous features including Quadra-Lift air suspension, premium interior with Nappa leather-trimmed and heated seats, vented front seats, wood/leather-wrapped heated steering wheel with memory, power tilt/telescope steering column, wood bezels, leather-stitched instrument panel/doors/center console armrest, power liftgate, and 20-inch aluminum wheels.

Pricing
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Gas Mileage
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As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

Engine and Transmission
Specifications, details, graphs, pictures and other information regarding the powertrain is placed in this section.

Performance
Please make sure to write information of the vehicle's performance in a third-person point of view. This section should include information about the car's acceleration figures, handling, braking, etc.

If using information gathered from Road Test articles from a reputable automotive source, then please make sure to cite the quote.

Reliability

 * RECALL ALERT: On Sept 21st 2007, Jeep issued a recall involving 28,755 Jeep Grand Cherokees and Commanders made between May 17 and July 13 2007 due to a manufacturing mistake involving the disc brakes that could cause the clamper to fracture and stop functioning.


 * RECALL ALERT: Jeep recalling more than 47,000 2002-2003 Liberty because of loss of lubrication in their front ball joints due to salt and 2009 Commanders, Grand Cherokees, and Wrangler models due to a possible reversed wiring on the driver's airbag controller which may inhibit the airbag's deployment.

Safety
According to the NHTSA, the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee received the highest ratings of 5/5 stars for Front and Side Impact crash tests. In Rollover tests, it performed slightly worse, receiving a 3/5 stars for two wheel drive models and a 4/5 stars for four wheel drive models.

The list of standard safety equipment found on the Grand Cherokee is as follows:
 * Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
 * Front and Rear Anti-Roll Bars
 * Four Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
 * Front Impact Airbags w/Occupancy Sensors
 * Side Impact Bars
 * Seatbelt Pretensioners

Colors
A full list of colors can be found at CarsDirect.com. Here is a partial list:

Exterior
 * Black Clearcoat
 * Dark Khaki Pearlcoat
 * Light Graystone Pearlcoat
 * Midnight Blue Pearlcoat
 * Stone White Clearcoat

Interior
 * Dark Khaki/Light Graystone
 * Khaki
 * Medium Slate Gray

Main Competitors

 * Honda Pilot
 * Volkswagen Touareg
 * Nissan Murano
 * Ford Explorer
 * Chevrolet TrailBlazer
 * Toyota Highlander
 * Acura MDX
 * Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
 * BMW X5
 * Mitsubishi Pajero

Hybrid Models
There are currently no hybrid models of the Grand Cherokee.

Unique Attributes
If there are any features of this vehicle that sets it apart from other vehicles in its class, then mention those unique attributes here.

Interior
This section should include information on the interior's design, build quality, ergonomics, space (head and legroom, front and rear), features, stowage compartments and overall comfort and livability. Add pictures wherever applicable and keep information in a third-person point of view.

Resale Values
According to Kelley Blue Book, "the Grand Cherokee is projected to retain an average value over five years, with the V6 model losing more of its value than the V8. The Grand Cherokee's projected 24-, 36-, 48- and 60-month residual values are better than the Nissan Pathfinder, on par with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and well below the Toyota 4Runner.

Autos.com ranks the Grand Cherokee Second in its class for Resale Value, tied with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Chrysler Pacifica, and Nissan Pathfinder, and behind a four-way First Place tie between the Honda Pilot, Nissan Murano, Toyota 4Runner, and Toyota Highlander.

Criticisms

 * "Hard plastic interior surfaces could use some padding..." - Edmunds.com
 * "The [second-row] seat back is a large, hard expanse with no rake, so you can't adjust it to your comfort level." - Cars.com
 * "Balanced, stable, but body lean prompts slowing down for tight, fast turns." - Consumer Guide
 * "The Grand Cherokee does not offer a third-row seat and interior space is nowhere near the levels of larger Sport Utility Vehicles..." - Kelley Blue Book
 * "Apart from the engine and the brightness of the headlamps, every single thing about this car is wrong. It's uncomfortable, cramped and feels like it's made entirely of melted lego". - Top Gear

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).[3] 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 Cherokee replacement, then known as the "XJC" project.[4] 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.[5]

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, CEO Lee Iacocca was pushing for redesigned Chrysler minivans, thus delaying the Grand Cherokee's release until late 1992 as an Explorer competitor. Unlike the Explorer, the Grand Cherokee utilized monocoque (unibody) construction, whereas the Explorer was a derivative of the Ranger pickup with a separate body-on-frame.

The Grand Cherokee debuted in grand fashion at the January 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. Sales of the 1993 model year Grand Cherokee began in April 1992.[6]

Production of the Grand Cherokee started shortly afterward in the purpose-built Jefferson North Assembly in Detroit, Michigan, United States. European Grand Cherokees are manufactured in Austria by Magna Steyr.[7] [edit]

Current Generation: (2011–present)
The current generation Jeep Grand Cherokee went on sale in summer 2010 as a 2011 model. It was unveiled at the 2009 New York Auto Show. The 4th-generation Grand Cherokee retains its classic Jeep styling combined with a modern and sleek body style. The interior is luxurious featuring leather trim and wood accents, plus state-of-the-art electronics options. The 2011 Grand Cherokee has won numerous awards for off-road capability, luxury, value, best-in-class, and safety.



The body design is all new and has undergone testing for aerodynamic efficiency while improving ruggedness with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone, resulting in a 146% torsional stiffness (over the previous design) for improved durability and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness.

Like the previous generations, the chassis is steel uniframe. Unlike previous models, the new WK2 features 4 wheel independent suspension for better on road handling. Engine choices include the all new 3.6 L Pentastar V6 and 5.7 L Hemi V8. Four wheel drive systems include Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II. Optional Quadra-Lift suspension can raise vehicle's ground clearance up to 11.1 ft. Lift modes include Park, Aero, Normal Ride Height, Off-Road 1, and Off-Road 2. Also new is the Selec-Terrain which has modes for Auto, Sport, Snow, Sand/Mud, and Rock.

The Hemi V8 retains the Multiple Displacement System (MDS) that shuts down four cylinders in low-power driving situations. And the V8 remains coupled with the multi-speed automatic transmission which includes Electronic Range Selection (ERS) to manually limit the high gear operating range. Trailer tow is rated 7,400 lb for Hemi models and 5000 lb for Pentastar models.

The 3.6 L Pentastar V6 replaces the 3.7 L and 4.7 L PowerTech engines. The 5.7 L Hemi engine was retained as the V8 option, although no Hemi badging will be used on the exterior of the vehicle. Also, the WK program code remains.

Some features changes with this generation are the handbrake being replaced by a footbrake, the wiper stalk on the right side of the steering column being moved to the turn signal stalk, which also means the lights move to the dash.

A 3.0 Litre turbocharged diesel V6 by VM Motori (with Multijet II injection ) rated at 177 kW (241 Hp) and 550 Nm (404 lb/ft) of torque will be offered in export markets by mid-2011

For the 2011 model year, the Grand Cherokee is offered in five trim levels: Laredo, Laredo X, Limited, Overland, and Overland Summit. The performance SRT-8 version will return for 2012.

SRT-8
On April 20th, 2011, Jeep announced that the SRT8 version will be debuted at the 2011 New York Auto Show. According to Chrysler, it's the fastest Jeep ever built. It reaches 0-60 miles per hour in 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 155 miles per hour. Quarter mile times were in mid-13-second range.

The new Cherokee SRT-8 will be equipped with a 465 horsepower 6.4 liter Hemi V8 engine. Jeep claims the new SRT8 gets 13-percent better fuel economy than its predecessor. To keep the gas mileage respectable, Jeep has employed a new active exhaust system that lets Chrysler's cylinder-deactivating Fuel Saver Technology operate over a wider RPM band. Chrysler claims that the SUV can now travel up to 500 miles on a single tank.

Production
The company announced a US$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 (ML Chassis).

Third Generation (2005-2010)
The all-new WK Grand Cherokee debuted in 2004 for the 2005 model year.

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.



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 4.7 L was refined, now producing 305 hp (227 kW; 309 PS), and 334 lb·ft (453 N·m).

The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with an improved 5.7 L Hemi engine rated at 357 hp (266 kW; 362 PS) and 389 ft·lbf (527 N·m) of torque. The engine uses variable valve timing to increase fuel economy.[23

Models

 * 2005–2010 – Laredo (not in Europe)
 * 2005–2010 – CRD Predator (Europe)
 * 2005–2010 – Limited
 * 2006–2010 – Overland
 * 2006–2010 – SRT-8

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 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 5,000 lb (2,300 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 Chrysler 300C, Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger and the now-discontinued Dodge Magnum), 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 (270 km/h).[21]

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.

Only 10,355 Jeep SRT8s were ever built.

BlueTec
In Europe, South America, South Africa and Australia, a V6 CRD engine produced by Mercedes-Benz was available from its introduction in 2005:

OM642 3.0 L CRD V6 Turbo Diesel with Variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). It produces 215 horsepower (160 kW; 218 PS) and 376 lb·ft (510 N·m) of torque at 1,600 to 2,800 rpm at a fuel consumption of 17 mpg-US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg-imp) city and 22 mpg-US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg-imp) highway.

NOTE: MPG figures are based on US EPA, European combined consumption is 27.7 mpg-imp (10.2 L/100 km; 23.1 mpg-US).

In North America and elsewhere this 3.0 CRD V6 was available from 2007 in "NA" but was short lived. The Mercedes sourced unit meets stringent EU4 Emission stardards without the need for a diesel particulate filter - which hampers vehicle efficiency, however - it includes a diesel particulate filter (North America only) to apparently further reduce exhaust emissions. It was not however available for sale in California or certain Northeast states, due to new stricter emissions regulations for non-commercial vehicles. Vehicles could be bought used in California and Northeast states, as the regulations only applied to new vehicles.

This engine is also used in the following vehicles: UK and Europe: Mercedes B-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, ML-Class, GLK-Class & G-Wagen. Mercedes Benz **320CDI or **350CDI in some more recent models.

Second Generation - WJ (1999-2004)
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.

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 127mm), 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 the only truck all wheel drive system at the time with triple differentals, as Toyota had removed the front locker from their Land Cruiser.

The 45RFE automatic transmission in the WJ was notable. It included 3 planetary gearsets rather than the two normally used in a 4-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, Chrysler enabled the use of the sixth gear to make the transmission a 5-speed automatic, and a new name: 545RFE. The different second gear is still used for downshifts. Chrysler labeled the transmission as a "Multi-Speed Automatic." Owners of 1999 and 2000 WJs with the 45RFE can have their transmission computer flashed to enable the 5th gear.

In addition to Jeep's UniFrame construction, Daimler Chrysler partnered with Porsche to further strengthen the frame. This was done to reduce NVH. UniFrame is an unusual construction scheme, it incorporates all of the strength and durability of a body-on-frame construction into a unitized construction. By adding stiffness and rigidity to the structure, they enhanced the ride and strengthened the network of steel beams, rails and pillars (or "safety cage") that surround and protect occupants. More than 70 percent of the underbody is high-strength steel. All Jeep Grand Cherokees feature UniFrame construction.

The Grand Cherokee received a minor facelift for 2004 including round fog lamps, a lower front fascia and a new body-color matched inset grille design.

WJ 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
 * 2003–2004 — Freedom 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, priced between the Laredo and Limited, offering the same quality of the Limited, differences include the option of the 4.7 L V8 engine. The Special Edition uses the Qudra-Trac II drivetrain, which utilizes the same NV247 transfer case as the limited edition, but lacks Quadra-Drive's front and rear Vari-Lok differentials. Special Edition came with premium interior details (Instrument cluster graphics were shared with Laredo model, did not acquire white-faced gauges from Limited model), 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 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 Limited the 4.7 L High Output engine V8 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. 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-inch 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. The Freedom Edition was a modified Laredo model. Features include special badging, painted charcoal rock rails, charcoal lower-body cladding and front/rear fascias, charcoal painted wheels, silver interior accents, and optional leather seats.

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.

As of 2010, the current model is sold in China.

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

First Generation - ZJ (1993-1998)
The ZJ models, manufactured from 1993 to 1998, originally came in 3 general trims, the Base, Laredo, and the Limited. The Base model (also known as SE) offered basic features such as full instruments, cloth interior, and a five-speed manual transmission (in 1993 only); The SE model was dropped in 1996. The Laredo was the mid-scale model, 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; a basic onboard computer; and waffle-like cast aluminum wheels.

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 I6 engine 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.

Specialty models included the Orvis (1995-1997); a Grand Cherokee Limited package that featured an exterior color scheme of deep hunter green with red and gold strip accents (1995), 1996 to 1997 Orvis exteriors were of hunter green tone with basic gold striping; the interior was a two-tone green and champagne seats complimented with red accents and "Orvis" company badging. A sporty TSi model (1997-1998) briefly debuted, exterior features included single color body paneling, with a light blue striping accent. TSi packages came equipped with 16 in alloy wheels, 225/70R16 tires, leather seats and a premium sound system.

The 5.9 Limited was produced only for the 1998 model year, having more luxury than that of the regular Limited. It housed a powerful 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, making it the quickest SUV available that year. Other features separated the 5.9 from the standard Limited model, an upgraded 46RE transmission, electric engine fan to save power, upgraded styled rocker panels, a more aerodynamic roof rack, mesh styled grille, unique five-spoke alloy wheels, an improved 10 speaker Infinity premium stereo system, softer higher quality leather seats and leather appointments to the door panels, center console, transmission and transfer case shifters. Many of these unique parts are sought after by Jeep enthusiasts to put on their non 5.9 Limited versions.

For 1993 alone, Jeep resurrected 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.

Four-wheel drive systems included Command-Trac, a part-time unit offering temporary 4-wheel asistance; Command-Trac was dropped from lineup in conjunction with the SE trim in 1996. Select-Trac had the option of either full-time or part-time operation; both shift-on-the-fly Command-Trac and Select-Trac were already available for the Cherokee, and were adopted to the Grand Cherokee. Exclusive to the Grand Cherokee was the introduction of Quadra-Trac having all-time four-wheel assistance only, this was standard on all Limited and specialty trims and optional for Laredo models alike. Rear wheel drive models were sold though only for the Laredo in late 1993, and it wasn't until 1994 when rear wheel drive was available for Limited; and in 1997 5.2 L V8 engines were sold along with rear wheel drive.

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.

Specialty models appeared for a brief time, The Sport was slightly more equipped than the Laredo and offered a 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 front grille were standard issue on the Special Edition. The Overland (appropriated after the former Jeep parent, Willys-Overland) was the top-of-the-line level, boasting the 4.7 L H.O. V8 as well as a wealth of standard features such as 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.

ZJ Models

 * 1993–1996 – Base "SE"
 * 1993–1998 – Laredo
 * 1993–1998 – Limited
 * 1993 Grand Wagoneer
 * 1995–1997 – Orvis "Limited Edition"
 * 1997–1998 – TSi
 * 1998 5.9 Limited

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.

Jeep Grand Wagoneer (1993)


For 1993 alone, Jeep carried over the Grand Wagoneer name for a special luxury version of the Grand Cherokee with both the 4.0L I6 and the 5.2 L V8 engines, 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 Moss Green, or in 1997 the (less common) Light Driftwood, with roan red and maize side strip accents (1995). Moss Green paint accents on the road wheels (matching the moss 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 complemented with roan 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, The Orvis Edition luxury trim package was optional on the Limited version, and when equipped with all the other options was 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 (1997–1999) briefly debuted, exterior features included single color body paneling, with lower indigo blue striping and TSi accent similar to that found on the Eagle Talon model. They could only be ordered in select colors, which included Black, Platinum, and Deep Amethyst. TSi packages came equipped with 5 spoke {16 inch alloy wheels, 225/70R16 tires, sport tuned suspension and steering, fog lights, Luxury group, featuring: "Highland" perforated leather seats, overhead computer, power driver's seat and a premium sound system with steering wheel mounted controls. The 4.0 litre I6 and the 5.2 litre V8 were the only two available engines in this package. The TSi was priced between the Laredo and the Limited; however, it was comparatively unpopular and a limited number were sold.

The 5.9 L Limited ZJ (1998)
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 manufactured nearly a quarter million Grand Cherokees in 1998. Of those, fewer than fifteen thousand were 5.9s. It housed a Magnum 5.9 LV8 engine with an output of 245 hp and 345 lb-ft of torque, going from zero to 60 mi/h in only 7.3 seconds (Motor Trend measured this at a slightly faster 6.8 seconds ), making it the quickest SUV available that year. The performance of the 1998 5.9 L V8 has been surpassed by Jeep only with the introduction of the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, which housed a 6.1 L Hemi Engine. The 5.9 Jeep Grand Cherokee was named the 1998 four-wheel drive vehicle of the year by Petersen's 4-Wheel & Off-Road Magazine.

The 5.9 Limited was available only in Deep Slate, Stone White, and Bright Platinum. Other features separated the 5.9 from the standard Limited model including:


 * Functioning heat-extracting hood louvers
 * Revised grill with mesh grille inserts
 * 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 squeaking problems found on the base 5.2 L limited
 * Molded rocker panels

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


 * A stronger 46RE transmission than the 5.2
 * Quadratrac 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


 * Further Statistics from Motor Trend January, 1998:

Origins
The Grand Cherokee was a spinoff of the notably smaller Jeep Cherokee. Based on the Jeep Concept 1 (1989), the Grand Cherokee's origins date back to 1983 when American Motors engineers were designing a Cherokee successor. The first generation was the first Chrysler-badged Jeep product since AMC came up with the concept; the AMC engineers/designers behind the project, who later became Chrysler employees after the 1987 buyout, were pushing for a late 1980s release date. However, then-CEO Lee Iacocca was pushing for redesigned Chrysler minivans, delaying the Grand Cherokee's release until late 1992.

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.

Worldwide
In Europe, Grand Cherokees there are built in Austria by Magna Steyr.

Grand Cherokees started arriving in 1996 in Australia and offered similar engines and trim levels. Australian bound versions are currently built in Austria.

Design quirks and oddities
Many of the first year models (Late '98/99) had many "unresolved" problems, such as rear windows failing to work.

In 2005, Chrysler Australia chose Broome, Australia to lauch the WH Grand Cherokee.