The Jeep Grand Cherokee first debuted in 1992 at the Detroit Auto Show by climbing up the stairs and driving through the window. It was designed as a larger and more luxurious successor to the Jeep Cherokee (XJ), with more interior space and a smoother highway ride. Over the years, the Grand Cherokee has gone through many changes and will be going into the 5th generation with the release of the 2022 model.
How does it compare? What makes the Grand Cherokee stand out from the Cherokee?
Size
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV, whereas the Cherokee is a compact SUV, making the Grand Cherokee bigger in size and weight.
Cargo Space
The Jeep Cherokee has up to 57.7 cu ft of cargo space, and the Grand Cherokee has up to 68.3 cu ft.
Power
Cherokee has 3 different engine configurations (2.0L Turbo, 2.4L, 3.2L V6) and the Grand Cherokee has 4 engines to choose from (3.6L V6, 5.7L V8, 6.2L Supercharged V8, 6.4L SRT V8).
Towing
When it comes to towing capability, the Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,200 LB in the right configuration, while the Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 LB when equipped with the V6 engine.
In short, the Grand Cherokee is bigger and more powerful.
What has changed?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been around for almost three decades now, so obviously, there have been some significant changes over the years.
1993 – 1998 (ZJ)
The first generation of the Grand Cherokee came with three trim levels: Base (SE), Laredo, and Limited. Throughout its production, it was offered in 4 different engine configurations (2.5 L Diesel, 4.0L I6, 5.2L V8, 5.9L V8), and either with a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. It featured a fully mechanical full-time 4×4 system, as well as an automatic system called Quadra-Trac.
1999 – 2005 (WJ)
In 1998 Daimler Chrysler unveiled the second generation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. It was redesigned with many notable features, like the updated V8, updated automatic transmission, a new automatic Quadra-Drive 4×4 option, and a complete interior redesign.
2005 – 2010 (WK)
For the third generation, Jeep added the 5.7L HEMI V8 and 6.1L HEMI V8 SRT-8 engines to the lineup, and the 3.7L V6 replaced the 4.0L I6. This generation also saw the change to independent front suspension.
2011 – Present (WK2)
The most notable change for the fourth generation was the all-new body design which improved aerodynamics and strengthened the body. The 4×4 system had three different systems to choose from, Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II. Four-wheel independent suspension was also implemented along with available Quadra-Lift adjustable air suspension.
A new 3.6L V6 replaced the old 3.7L V6, and a 3.0L Turbocharged V6 Diesel became available as well.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The current model year of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is offered in 11 trim levels, 12 colors, 4 engine configurations, plus many other available options to customize the Jeep to your needs.
Drive in luxury, comfort, and style with the new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
How about a third row of seating?
The new Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers even more room with its third-row seats and adds more modern features to the Most Awarded SUV Ever. Available features include a Rear-seat monitoring camera, Heads-Up Display, Digital Rearview Mirror, Night Vision Camera, hand-wrapped, quilted Palermo leather, and genuine Waxed Walnut wood interior, and a lot more!
If you are interested in a Jeep Grand Cherokee L, please contact us.