The Jeep Grand Cherokee II (WJ), produced from 1999 to 2003, represented a significant step forward for the iconic American SUV. The 4.0-liter inline-six engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission was a popular configuration during this generation, offering a balance of capability and affordability. This variant occupied a middle ground in the WJ lineup, positioned below the more powerful V8 options but above the base 2.7L engine. It was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a capable, comfortable SUV for daily driving and occasional off-road excursions without the higher price tag of the V8 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Generation | Grand Cherokee II (WJ) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 (190 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 19.7 l/100 km (11.9 US mpg, 14.3 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 105.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48 Hp/l |
| Torque | 295 Nm @ 3050 rpm (217.58 lb.-ft. @ 3050 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 | 1806-1875 kg (3981.55 – 4133.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2425 kg (5346.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550-619 kg (1212.54 – 1364.66 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 | 225/75 R16; 245/70 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 weight. The engine produced 190 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 3050 rpm. The 42RE four-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing, chosen for its robustness and suitability for off-road driving. This transmission featured electronic control and a torque converter lock-up for improved fuel efficiency at highway speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee offered a comfortable and capable driving experience, though it wasn’t particularly quick. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.4 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, prioritized comfort over sporty responsiveness. Gear ratios were tuned for everyday drivability and towing capacity rather than outright performance. Compared to the V8-powered models, the 4.0L felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, the inline-six provided ample low-end torque, making it well-suited for off-road situations and towing lighter loads. The 4×4 system, featuring part-time four-wheel drive, provided enhanced traction in challenging conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee 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 Laredo and Limited, added features like leather upholstery, upgraded sound systems, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. Optional extras included a navigation system, premium audio, and various off-road packages with features like skid plates and a heavy-duty cooling system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather available on higher trims. 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 featured coil springs and a rigid axle with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension also employed a rigid axle with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good off-road capability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee was generally well-received by critics as a practical and capable SUV. It offered a good balance of features, comfort, and affordability. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, averaging around 16 mpg combined. Compared to the V8 models, the 4.0L was considered less powerful but more fuel-efficient. It also tended to be more reliable in the long run, as the simpler inline-six engine had fewer potential failure points than the more complex V8s. The 4.0L appealed to buyers who prioritized practicality and value over outright performance.
Legacy
The 4.0L inline-six engine in the WJ Grand Cherokee has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. Many examples are still on the road today, often with high mileage. While maintenance costs can increase with age, the engine is generally considered relatively easy to work on. The 42RE automatic transmission is also known for its robustness, although it can be prone to certain issues with age. In the used car market, the 4.0L automatic Grand Cherokee remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable SUV. Its reputation for reliability and off-road capability continues to make it a desirable vehicle for those who need a rugged and dependable vehicle.
