The Jeep Grand Cherokee II (WJ), produced from 1999 to 2004, represented a significant leap forward for the iconic American SUV. The 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic variant, specifically manufactured between 1999 and 2001, occupied a key position in the lineup, offering a balance of power, capability, and relative affordability. This model year marked the beginning of the WJ generation, built on the WH platform, and aimed to improve upon the previous (ZJ) generation in terms of refinement, interior space, and off-road prowess. It was primarily targeted at the North American market, where large SUVs were highly popular, and served as a competitor to vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Toyota 4Runner.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Generation | Grand Cherokee II (WJ) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.7 V8 (220 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1999 year |
| End of production | 2001 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 20.8 l/100 km (11.3 US mpg, 13.6 UK mpg, 4.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 15.6 l/100 km (15.1 US mpg, 18.1 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 210.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 4700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 46.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 3200 rpm (287.65 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EVA |
| Engine displacement | 4701 cm3 (286.87 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.7 l (14.48 US qt | 12.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1851-1900 kg (4080.76 – 4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595-644 kg (1311.75 – 1419.78 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%) | 3360 kg (7407.53 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 4611 mm (181.54 in.) |
| Width | 1858 mm (73.15 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2180 mm (85.83 in.) |
| Height | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2690 mm (105.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1511 mm (59.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1511 mm (59.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 210 mm (8.27 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.45 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 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 | 245/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand Cherokee variant was the 4.7-liter V8 engine, internally designated as the EVA engine. This engine was a member of Chrysler’s second-generation small-block V8 family. It featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design operating two valves per cylinder, and a multi-port fuel injection system. The 4.7L V8 produced 220 horsepower at 4700 rpm and 390 lb-ft of torque at 3200 rpm. The engine’s relatively low 9:1 compression ratio was a compromise for reliability and compatibility with various fuel grades. The automatic transmission used was a 4-speed 42RE unit, known for its durability but not particularly for its fuel efficiency. This transmission was electronically controlled, offering smoother shifts compared to earlier iterations.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.7L V8 with the 4-speed automatic provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8.6 seconds, making it competitive with other SUVs in its class. The automatic transmission, while reliable, had relatively wide gear ratios, which sometimes resulted in the engine feeling strained during quick acceleration or when climbing hills. Compared to the manual transmission versions or the higher-output 4.7L HO (High Output) models, this configuration prioritized smooth cruising and towing capacity over outright speed. The 4×4 system, utilizing part-time four-wheel drive, provided good traction in various conditions, making it a capable off-roader for recreational use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Higher trim levels, such as the Limited, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded suspension packages. The interior design was functional and comfortable, though not particularly luxurious compared to some European competitors.
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 on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight, but not particularly powerful.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic Grand Cherokee was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong towing capacity. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, averaging around 15 mpg combined. Compared to the 4.0L inline-six engine option, the V8 offered significantly more power but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The V8 also required more frequent and potentially more expensive maintenance than the six-cylinder engine.
Legacy
The 4.7 V8 engine, while not without its flaws, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. The 42RE automatic transmission is also known for its durability. Today, these Grand Cherokees are relatively affordable on the used car market, making them popular choices for those seeking a capable and comfortable SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as cooling system failures, suspension wear, and potential for oil leaks. Despite these potential issues, the 1999-2001 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic Grand Cherokee remains a respected and capable vehicle, representing a significant step forward in Jeep’s SUV lineage.
