The Jeep Grand Cherokee II (WJ), produced from 1998 to 2004, represented a significant leap forward for the iconic American SUV. The 4.7 V8 model, specifically those manufactured between 1998 and 2001, occupied a crucial position in the lineup, offering a balance of power and relative affordability. This variant, equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 235 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a capable and comfortable SUV without the premium price tag of the higher-end trims. It was a key player in Jeep’s strategy to broaden the Grand Cherokee’s appeal beyond the dedicated off-road enthusiast.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Generation | Grand Cherokee II (WJ) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.7 V8 (235 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 year |
| End of production | 2001 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 134.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 228.3 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 | 1752 kg (3862.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2359 kg (5200.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 607 kg (1338.21 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 of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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; 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
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 represented a departure from the earlier 4.0-liter inline-six, offering significantly more power and torque. The 4.7L V8 featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, a configuration chosen for its balance of durability and weight. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder for optimized combustion. The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, while simpler than dual overhead cam setups, proved reliable and adequate for the engine’s intended purpose. The four-speed automatic transmission (typically the 42RE or 45RFE depending on specific production dates) was chosen for its smooth operation and ease of use, catering to a broader audience than a manual transmission. This transmission featured electronic control for improved shift quality and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.7 V8 with the four-speed automatic provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 4.0L inline-six. While not a sports car, the 235 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque allowed for confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel than a manual transmission. The gear ratios were optimized for everyday driving and towing, rather than outright performance. The weight of the Grand Cherokee, around 3,862 pounds, meant that the 0-60 mph time was in the 8-9 second range. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional SUV feel, with a focus on stability and predictable handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.7 V8 model typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo. Upholstery was usually cloth, though leather was available as an option. Higher trim levels, such as the Limited, added features like leather seats, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, premium sound system, and a navigation system. The 4.7L engine was often paired with the Laredo and Limited trims, offering a good balance of features and price.
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 also employed a rigid axle with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. Brakes were ventilated discs up front and discs in the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. The relatively high ride height (8.7 inches) provided good ground clearance for off-road excursions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.7 V8 Grand Cherokee was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It offered a compelling combination of power, comfort, and capability at a competitive price point. Compared to the 4.0L inline-six, the V8 provided a significant performance boost, while remaining more affordable than the higher-end trims with the 4.7 HO (High Output) engine. Fuel economy, however, was a notable drawback, averaging around 17 mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission and cooling system over the long term.
Legacy
The 4.7 V8 Grand Cherokee (WJ) remains a popular choice in the used car market today. Its robust construction and relatively simple mechanicals make it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain. While not as fuel-efficient as modern SUVs, its affordability and capability continue to appeal to buyers seeking a dependable and versatile vehicle. The EVA engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a durable powerplant when properly maintained. Parts availability is generally good, ensuring that these Grand Cherokees can remain on the road for many years to come.
