The Jeep Grand Cherokee II (WJ), specifically the facelifted version produced from 2003 to 2004, represented a significant evolution in Jeep’s popular SUV lineage. This generation, introduced in 1999, received a substantial refresh in 2003, including revised styling, upgraded interiors, and enhanced mechanical components. Among the engine options available, the 4.7-liter V8 paired with a five-speed automatic transmission was a popular choice, offering a balance of power and convenience for American drivers. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the Grand Cherokee lineup, slotting above the base 3.7L V6 and 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 (235 Hp) 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 (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, 133.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.4 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 | 1759 kg (3877.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2359 kg (5200.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 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.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 340 kg (749.57 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 | 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 (4701 cc) 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) valvetrain 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 engine produced 235 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 3200 rpm. The five-speed automatic transmission (42RE/45RFE) was specifically tuned to complement the V8’s torque curve, providing smooth shifts and adequate acceleration. While not a performance-oriented transmission, it was known for its durability and reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.7L V8 with the automatic transmission delivered a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and towing, though not particularly brisk. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for cruising and towing, rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 4.7L, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. It also lagged behind the performance of the higher-output 4.0L inline-six in terms of outright speed. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional SUV feel, with a focus on stability and predictable handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.7L automatic Grand Cherokee typically came equipped with a respectable array of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, though leather was available as an option. Higher trim levels, such as the Limited, added features like leather seats, heated front seats, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded suspension packages.
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. The rear suspension also employed a rigid axle with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, utilizing a trailing arm design. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard equipment. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride, with a focus on absorbing bumps and maintaining stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.7L V8 automatic Grand Cherokee was well-received by consumers seeking a capable and comfortable SUV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong towing capacity. However, fuel economy was a common criticism, with the 4.7L V8 being noticeably less efficient than the base V6. Compared to the 4.0L inline-six, the V8 offered more low-end torque but less overall refinement. The 4.7L automatic represented a sweet spot for many buyers, offering a good balance of power, convenience, and affordability.
Legacy
The 4.7L V8 engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. The 42RE/45RFE automatic transmission was also generally durable, though regular fluid changes were essential. Today, these Grand Cherokees are readily available on the used car market at affordable prices. They remain popular choices for those seeking a capable and comfortable SUV with classic American styling. Their simplicity and relatively easy maintenance make them appealing to DIY mechanics and enthusiasts.
