The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a luxurious and capable off-road SUV in production for 50 years. It was the first unibody SUV in history and vehicle produced by Jeep. The SRT Trackhawk model was the most powerful SUV in the world when it was launched in 2018. However, its first generation was an extremely basic and barebones SUV and even featured a different name — Jeep Cherokee.
In this DubiCars Car Spotlight article, we take a closer look at the history and generations of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and its journey from a basic wagon to a sporty and luxurious SUV. This article also delves into how and why Jeep Cherokee turned into Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Origins of the Jeep Cherokee & Jeep Grand Cherokee
During World War II, Willy’s Overland produced the Willys MB, a rugged off-road military vehicle that came to be known as Jeep. Post the war, the Jeep was produced for civilians and hence, the CJ (Civilian Jeep) series was born. This series eventually gave birth to the Jeep Wrangler. Read all about the history and generations of the Jeep Wrangler here.
Willys Overland was acquired by Kaiser and turned into Kaiser-Jeep. The brand continued producing CJ models. However, it was also looking into the production of a larger and more comfortable luxury 4WD wagon. This led to the introduction of the Jeep Wagoneer in 1963. Towards the end of the 60s, a more capable and sportier off-road vehicle was in the works.
Jeep decided to name it Cherokee in reference to the Native American ‘Cherokee’ tribe. It marked a return to the three-door SUV body style, similar to the CJ series. However, the Cherokee had all the luxuries offered by the Jeep Wagoneer. In 1992, it was spun off into a larger series of SUVs named Jeep Grand Cherokee.
First Generation Jeep Cherokee (SJ) | 1974 – 1983
The first generation Jeep Cherokee (SJ) was introduced in 1974 as a two-door version of the Jeep Wagoneer. It was designed to appeal to a younger, more adventurous demographic, combining the utility of an SUV with a sportier appearance. Its design set the stage for what would become the Grand Cherokee, emphasizing versatility and ruggedness.
The SJ Cherokee featured a range of powerful engines — a 4.2-litre inline-6 and three V8 engines ranging from 5.9-litres to 6.6-litres in capacity. Transmission options included a 4-speed manual gearbox and GM’s turbo-hydramatic automatic transmission.
Second Generation Jeep Cherokee (XJ) | 1983 – 2014
In 1983, Jeep introduced the second generation Jeep Cherokee (XJ). This model was notable for its unibody construction, a significant departure from the traditional body-on-frame design of every other SUV at the time. Being the first-ever SUV to feature unibody underpinnings helped the Cherokee achieve a level of sportiness other SUVs of the period could only dream about.
The large and thirty V8 engines were discontinued with the previous generation. Instead, this generation was powered by a 2.5-litre inline-4, a 2.8-litre V6, or a 4.0-litre inline-6. Inline-4 diesel engines were also introduced with this model. Production in the USA ended in 2001, however, it was produced in China until 2014 by BAW under the name BAW Qishi.
The second generation Jeep Cherokee was discontinued only to be replaced by a new lineup of SUVs in 2002, the first of which was named Jeep Liberty. However, the Cherokee nameplate was too precious for Jeep to discontinue. Instead, the brand had some ‘grand’ plans for the Cherokee.
First Generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ) | 1992 – 1998
The Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ) made its grand entrance in 1992, and it was a game-changer for the SUV segment. The ZJ was the first SUV to feature a driver-side airbag as standard, highlighting Jeep’s commitment to safety. It also boasted a more luxurious interior compared to its predecessors, with high-quality materials and advanced technology.
The Grand Cherokee’s design combined rugged off-road capability with a comfortable, refined driving experience, setting a new standard for SUVs. It also revived some mighty American V8 engines. Engine options included a 4.0-litre inline-6, a 5.2-litre V8, and a 5.9-litre V8.
Second Generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) | 1998 – 2005
The second generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ), introduced in 1998, continued to build on the success of the ZJ. The WJ featured a more aerodynamic design and a stiffer chassis, improving both performance and handling.
It also offered a range of powerful engines, including the 4.7L Powertech V8, which provided ample power for both on-road and off-road driving. Inside, the WJ showcased a more luxurious interior with advanced features such as dual-zone climate control and an improved audio system.
Third Gen Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK) | 2004 – 2010
In 2004, Jeep unveiled the third generation Grand Cherokee (WK), which marked a significant evolution in design and technology. While it received a mixed reaction to the new design language, the lengthy features list and the performance on offer more than made up for it.
It also introduced the Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced off-road capability and improved handling in various driving conditions. The WK’s interior was more spacious and upscale, offering premium materials and advanced technology such as navigation and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
This generation was the first to offer a HEMI V8 engine under the bonnet. The well-known 5.7-litre V8 and the more powerful 6.1-litre HEMI V8 engines were on offer. In addition, a 3.7-litre V6 and a 4.7-litre V8 were also available. Diesel engine options were discontinued with the previous generation.
Fourth Generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2) | 2010 – 2022
The most popular Jeep Grand Cherokee generation ever was launched in 2010. The fourth generation represented a major leap forward in terms of luxury, technology, and performance. The WK2 was built on a new platform shared with the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, providing a more refined and comfortable ride.
This generation brought forth the infamous SRT Trackhawk version of the SUV. Powered by a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI Hellcat V8 producing 707hp, the Trackhawk gave redefined the term ‘Sporty SUVs.’ With high-quality materials, advanced infotainment systems, and a host of safety features, this generation’s interior saw significant upgrades.
Fifth Generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (WL) | 2021 – Present
2021 saw the introduction of the latest iteration, the fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (WL). This model continues the tradition of blending luxury with rugged capability, featuring a more modern and sophisticated design. The WL Grand Cherokee offers a variety of powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid variant, reflecting Jeep’s commitment to sustainability.
Jeep discontinued the large 6.2-litre and 6.4-litre V8 engines, prioritising efficiency, and environment-friendliness. The largest engine is now the 5.7-litre HEMI V8. The 4xe variant features a 2.0-litre inline-4 turbo-petrol paired with an electric motor. The interior is more luxurious than ever, with advanced technology such as a digital instrument cluster, a large touchscreen infotainment system, and a host of driver assistance features.
Most Popular Jeep Grand Cherokee Generations In The UAE
In the UAE, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts, particularly the fourth and fifth generations. Their blend of luxury, performance, and off-road capability, make them well-suited for the diverse driving conditions in the region.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Price In The UAE
Prices for a new Jeep Grand Cherokee for sale in the UAE range from AED 154,000 to AED 207,000. Prices for a used Jeep Grand Cherokee for sale in the UAE range from AED 14,000 to AED 249,000 depending on the model, year of manufacture, and condition.
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FAQs
What Is The Price of The Jeep Grand Cherokee In The UAE?
Prices for a new Jeep Grand Cherokee range between AED 154,000 and AED 207,000 while a used one would cost between AED 14,000 and AED 249,000.
When Did Jeep Grand Cherokee Start?
Production of the Jeep Grand Cherokee first started in 1992. However, production of its predecessor, the Jeep Cherokee began in 1974.
What Engine Is In The Jeep Grand Cherokee?
A range of impressive engine options power the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The current generation is available with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder hybrid, a 3.6-litre V6, and a 5.7-litre V8.
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