The Jeep Grand Cherokee II (WJ), produced between 1999 and 2004, represented a significant leap forward for the iconic American SUV. The 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic variant, specifically those manufactured between 2001 and 2003, occupied a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a balance of power, capability, and relative affordability. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a robust SUV with V8 performance without the premium price tag of the higher-trim models. This generation marked a departure from the previous (ZJ) model, introducing a fully independent front suspension and a more refined interior, solidifying the Grand Cherokee’s reputation as a capable and comfortable family vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Generation | Grand Cherokee II (WJ) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.7 V8 (235 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 year |
| End of production | 2003 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 127 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 235 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3200 rpm (295.02 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 kg (4080.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 644 kg (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%) | 2948 kg (6499.23 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 | 5 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; 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand Cherokee variant is the 4.7-liter V8 engine, internally designated as the EVA engine code. This engine is a member of Chrysler’s third-generation small-block V8 family. It features 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 9:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the ability to run on readily available gasoline grades. The 4.7L V8 produced 235 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 3200 rpm. The engine’s torque curve was relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide range of engine speeds. Paired with this engine was a 5-speed automatic transmission (typically the 42RE or 45RFE depending on specific build dates), chosen for its durability and suitability for towing. This transmission was electronically controlled, offering smooth shifts and adaptive learning capabilities.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.7L V8 with the automatic transmission delivered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the 4.0L inline-six or the diesel options available. While not as quick as the higher-output 4.7L HO (High Output) versions, it provided ample power for everyday driving and towing. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was typically in the 7.5-8.5 second range. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did contribute to some power loss compared to a manual transmission. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with a focus on providing sufficient torque for off-road situations and hauling. The 4×4 system, typically Quadra-Trac I or II, offered varying degrees of automatic four-wheel drive engagement, enhancing traction in slippery conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2001-2003 Grand Cherokee 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. 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 towing packages. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather being standard on the Limited. Dashboard configurations were relatively consistent across trims, with a focus on functionality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The WJ Grand Cherokee featured a fully independent front suspension, a significant improvement over the solid front axle of the previous generation. The rear suspension utilized a solid axle with coil springs and a trailing arm design. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good off-road capability. Brakes were typically ventilated discs on the front and discs on the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear suspensions to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.7 V8 Automatic Grand Cherokee was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable four-wheel drive system. However, fuel economy was a common criticism, with the 4.7L V8 being significantly less fuel-efficient than the 4.0L inline-six or the diesel options. Compared to the higher-output 4.7L HO, the 235 hp version offered a more affordable entry point into V8 ownership, but at the expense of some performance. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission and the cooling system.
Legacy
The 4.7L V8 engine, while eventually superseded by more modern powertrains, proved to be a durable and reliable engine when properly maintained. Today, the 2001-2003 Grand Cherokee 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among those seeking a capable and affordable SUV. Parts availability is generally good, and the vehicle’s relatively simple design makes it relatively easy to repair. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the transmission and cooling system, and should ensure that the vehicle has been well-maintained.
