The Jeep Grand Cherokee II (WJ), specifically the facelifted version produced from 2003 to 2004, represented a significant step forward for the iconic American SUV. This generation, introduced in 1999, received a substantial refresh in 2003, including revised styling, upgraded interiors, and enhanced mechanical components. The 4.7 V8 model with a four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive configuration was a popular choice, offering a balance of power, capability, and relative comfort. It sat in the mid-to-upper range of the Grand Cherokee lineup, positioned above the base 3.7L V6 but below the high-performance 4.0L inline-six and later supercharged variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Generation | Grand Cherokee II (WJ, facelift 2003) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.7 V8 (227 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 22 l/100 km (10.7 US mpg, 12.8 UK mpg, 4.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg, 17.7 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 380 g/km |
| 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 | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 118 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 227 Hp @ 4350 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 394 Nm @ 3200 rpm (290.6 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 | 1923 kg (4239.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 572 kg (1261.04 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) | 221 mm (8.7 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 | 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 | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2003-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee II 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic was a cornerstone of Jeep’s lineup during its production run. Built on the WJ platform, this iteration of the Grand Cherokee aimed to refine the previous generation with improved ride quality, enhanced safety features, and a more modern interior. The 4.7-liter V8 engine, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II four-wheel-drive system, provided a compelling combination of on-road comfort and off-road capability. This variant was aimed at buyers who desired a capable SUV with a powerful engine, without the higher price tag of the more specialized trims.
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 90-degree OHV (Overhead Valve) design, featuring a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port. The engine’s valvetrain consists of two valves per cylinder, operated by hydraulic lifters. The 42RE four-speed automatic transmission, known for its durability, was the standard pairing. This transmission features electronic control and a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved fuel efficiency at highway speeds. The Quadra-Trac II four-wheel-drive system is a full-time system, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear axles based on traction conditions. It includes a low-range gear for enhanced off-road performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.7 V8 and four-speed automatic combination delivered respectable performance for its time. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in around 8.6 seconds, and the engine provided ample torque for towing and hauling. However, compared to the manual transmission or the higher-output 4.0L inline-six, the 4.7L automatic felt somewhat less responsive. The four-speed automatic, while reliable, lacked the gear ratios of more modern transmissions, resulting in higher engine speeds at highway cruising. The Quadra-Trac II system provided confident all-weather traction, and the Grand Cherokee felt stable and composed on both paved roads and moderately challenging off-road terrain. The ride quality was generally comfortable, although the solid rear axle could transmit some bumps and vibrations to the cabin.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was available as an option. Higher trim levels added features like heated front seats, a premium sound system, and a sunroof. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and upgraded wheels and tires. The interior design was functional and straightforward, with a focus on durability and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Cherokee II 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. The rear suspension also employed a coil spring and rigid axle configuration, with a trailing arm and transverse stabilizer bar. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard equipment. The steering system was a recirculating ball type with hydraulic power assist.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.7 V8 Grand Cherokee was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It offered a good balance of power, capability, and value. Compared to the base 3.7L V6, the 4.7L provided a significant performance boost. However, it wasn’t as fuel-efficient. The 4.0L inline-six offered comparable torque and slightly better fuel economy, but lacked the V8’s prestige and sound. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission and cooling system. Fuel economy was a common complaint, averaging around 14-16 mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The 2003-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee II 4.7 V8 4×4 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market. The 4.7L V8 engine, while not known for exceptional fuel economy, is generally considered reliable when properly maintained. The 42RE transmission is also durable, but regular fluid changes are essential. These Grand Cherokees are often sought after by those looking for a capable and affordable SUV with a classic American V8 engine. Parts availability is generally good, and the vehicle’s relatively simple design makes it relatively easy to repair and maintain. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with rust, cooling system components, and the automatic transmission.
