Jeep Grand Cherokee Generations: What’s Changed Over The Years?
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Jeep created some of the most iconic vehicles that graced the American market. While the Wrangler is widely considered the face of the Jeep brand, there’s no denying that the Jeep Grand Cherokee also significantly influenced the brand.
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The Cherokee was introduced as a comfortable American SUV with excellent off-roading capabilities. Its versatility, luxury car trimmings, and upscale cabin have resonated with many consumers. Before long, the Grand Cherokee gained its enthusiastic following and ended up more than just the intended replacement for the regular Cherokee.
Over the years, the Cherokee has evolved over five generations, becoming one of the more popular Jeep models. The Grand Cherokee was initially released to replace the regular Cherokee but instead turned into a midsize SUV alternative to the now-discontinued Grand Wagoneer.
Are you looking to buy a new or used Grand Cherokee? It’s best if you learned about the Jeep Grand Cherokee generations. Below, we’ll walk you through the many Jeep Grand Cherokee generations and how it changed over the years.
Jeep Grand Cherokee First Generation (1993-1998)
The Grand Cherokee was first introduced under the “ZJ” designation and received critical acclaim at the 1992 Detroit Auto Show. The original ZJ Grand Cherokee was initially offered with only one powertrain, a 4.0-liter straight-six that produced 190 horsepower and was praised for its durability. Later with the 1992 and 1993 models, Jeep started offering the Grand Cherokee with the optional 5.9-liter V-8 engine that produces 245 hp and 345 lb-ft of torque.
In the first-generation Grand Cherokee, buyers also had the choice between an Aisin AX15 manual or an AW4 4-speed automatic transmission. However, the manual transmission was unceremoniously discontinued in the 1995 production year. In terms of options, the original 1993 Grand Cherokee was available in three trims: the base SE model, Laredo, and Limited. The base trim was relatively basic, with cloth seats, manual locks, and manual windows. Meanwhile, going up the Laredo trim would give power windows and locks, a leather-clad steering wheel, and a cruise control feature.
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With the ZJ generation, the Grand Cherokee displayed great promise. It became popular with consumers who want a more stylish and luxurious SUV yet remain trail-ready as needed. The Grand Cherokee also helped Jeep leverage its place in the midsize SUV segment for the years to come.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Second Generation (1999-2004)
Even with the success of the ZJ generation, Jeep wasn’t about to sit on its laurels. Enter the Grand Cherokee’s second generation, dubbed the “WJ” generation. This is one of the Jeep Grand Cherokee generations that brought a significant redesign with a more rounded and sophisticated aesthetic and innovative engine and tech features.
With its continued push toward the upmarket stream, the WJ generation offered a friendlier and more user-centric cabin. The infotainment system featured a user-friendly layout that prioritized ease of use. It also included multi-adjustable leather seats and an improved passenger room. Luxury features are also not in short supply with the addition of heated seats, a premium audio system, and support for Sirius Satellite Radio.
Tech-wise, the more opulent technological features like in-car cellular phones and dual-zone climate control were made standard in the Grand Cherokee. First-class connectivity features such as HomeLink and Uconnect Bluetooth connectivity were also included.
The old V8 engine from the previous generation was replaced by a newly-developed 4.7L PowerTech V8, which was lighter and more efficient. The Quadra-Drive was also introduced, an automatic four-wheel drive system, where the required torque was sent to the front and rear wheels as needed.
Overall, the second-generation Grand Cherokee was considered a great all-rounder with a stiffer body.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Third Generation (2005-2010)
The “WK” Grand Cherokee saw another redesign but returned to its more boxy and angular styling roots. Most people would remember the WK generation for its SRT8 trim, the fastest SUV on the market at the time, even beating the likes of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo. Powered by a 6.1L Hemi-V8 engine that cranked out 20 hp and 420 ft-lb of torque, the SRT8 made Americans fall in love with obscenely fast SUVs.
However, the rest of the engine lineup wasn’t slouches, either. The outgoing V6s and V8s were updated – a 3.7L V6 produced 215 hp and a 5.7L Hemi-V8 engine with 325 hp. The Grand Cherokee’s off-road chops were enhanced with the available electronic limited-slip differentials and true low-range gearing.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee Fourth Generation (2011-2020)
The WK2 is among the most awarded Jeep Grand Cherokee generations, thanks to its extensive powertrain options, class-leading technology, and exceptional on and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee received a comprehensive update both inside and out.
Powertrain options ranged from a 3.6L V6 with 290 hp and a 5.7L V8 with 360 hp. Next year, the 2012 Grand Cherokee introduced an SRT8 6.4L V8 engine lifted from the Dodge Challenger, capable of an exhilarating 475 hp. Regarding technology, the Grand Cherokee remained a top contender with its uConnect infotainment system, hands-free features, voice-activated commands, and Bluetooth support.
As expected, the WK2 also featured some of the best 4x4 systems at that time, including the Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II. For more off-roading capability, you may add the ability to modify the ride height using the height-adjustable air suspension. Electronic control modes are also available for tackling challenging terrains like pavement, snow, sand, or rock.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee Fifth Generation (2021-Present)
The new WL generation Jeep Grand Cherokee L debuted in 2021 and came with three different four-wheel drive systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, and the Quadra-Lift.
The Grand Cherokee also came in four trim levels: Laredo, Limited, Overland, and Summit. The Laredo and Limited trims are powered by a Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine and paired with an eight-speed transmission. This setup is capable of 290 hp and 257 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the Overland and Summit trims are equipped with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine with an output of 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque.
At this point, you’ve caught up with all Jeep Grand Cherokee generations.
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