The Jeep Grand Cherokee II (WJ), produced from 1998 to 2003, represented a significant leap forward for the iconic American SUV. The 4.0-liter inline-six engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission was a popular configuration, offering a balance of capability and affordability within the WJ lineup. This variant served as a mainstay for buyers seeking a robust, comfortable SUV without the higher price tag of the V8 models. It was positioned as a mid-range offering, appealing to families and individuals needing a capable vehicle for both daily driving and light off-road adventures. The WJ generation marked a departure from the previous ZJ model, introducing a more refined interior, improved ride quality, and updated styling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Generation | Grand Cherokee II (WJ) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 (195 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 172.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 195 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 312 Nm @ 3000 rpm (230.12 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | ERH |
| Engine displacement | 3956 cm3 (241.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 98.4 mm (3.87 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.1 l (14.9 US qt | 12.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1809 kg (3988.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2449 kg (5399.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1104 l (38.99 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2047 l (72.29 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 78 l (20.61 US gal | 17.16 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 68 kg (149.91 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2268 kg (5000.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4610 mm (181.5 in.) |
| Width | 1836 mm (72.28 in.) |
| Height | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1511 mm (59.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1511 mm (59.49 in.) |
| Front overhang | 815 mm (32.09 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1105 mm (43.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 221 mm (8.7 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.45 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 36.7° |
| Departure angle | 28.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 305 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 305 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand Cherokee variant is the 4.0-liter (3956 cc) inline-six cylinder engine, designated the ERH code. This engine, a descendant of the AMC 242 cubic inch inline-six, was known for its durability and relatively simple design. It featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, utilizing a single overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing adequate performance for the vehicle’s intended use. The 4.0L engine produced 195 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 230 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. The automatic transmission was a Chrysler-built 42RE four-speed unit. This transmission was chosen for its robustness and suitability for towing, although it lacked the efficiency of more modern transmissions. The 42RE featured electronic control for shift scheduling, but was not known for particularly quick or sporty shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee offered a comfortable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but the 195 horsepower and the four-speed automatic meant it wasn’t a particularly quick vehicle. The 42RE transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards torque delivery rather than outright speed. Compared to the V8-powered Grand Cherokees, the 4.0L felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded or towing. However, the inline-six offered a smoother, more refined feel than the V8s, and its lower weight contributed to better handling. The part-time four-wheel-drive system, selectable via a rotary dial, provided enhanced traction in inclement weather or on unpaved surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels, like the Limited, added features such as leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and a rear entertainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on base models, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-use controls.
Chassis & Braking
The WJ Grand Cherokee utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of a coil spring and rigid axle setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed a similar configuration with trailing arms and a coil spring. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard equipment. The suspension was tuned for a balance of ride comfort and off-road capability, providing a reasonably smooth ride on paved roads while still offering sufficient articulation for tackling moderate trails.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee was well-received by consumers seeking a capable and affordable SUV. Critics praised its durability and comfortable ride, but noted its relatively slow acceleration and dated transmission. Compared to the V8 models, the 4.0L offered better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 4.0L was also generally more reliable than the V8s, as it had fewer potential points of failure. Against competitors like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Blazer, the Grand Cherokee offered a more refined interior and a more capable four-wheel-drive system.
Legacy
The 4.0L inline-six engine proved to be remarkably durable, and many examples are still on the road today. While the 42RE transmission can be prone to issues with age, it is generally reliable with proper maintenance. In the used car market, the 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a rugged and affordable SUV. Its simplicity and durability make it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain, and its capable four-wheel-drive system makes it well-suited for a variety of tasks. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Overall, the 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee represents a solid and dependable SUV that has stood the test of time.
