The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee, representing the culmination of the second generation, fondly remembered as the “WJ,” provides an intriguing study for automotive enthusiasts seeking to understand the evolution of the iconic SUV. This particular model year, marking the final iteration of the WJ series, encapsulates the advancements and refinements that Jeep meticulously incorporated over the generation’s lifespan.
Manufactured in the automotive heartland of Detroit, Michigan, the 2004 Grand Cherokee embodied Jeep’s unwavering commitment to domestic production and served as a testament to the enduring legacy of American craftsmanship. Offered with a choice between two distinct engine options, a 4.0-liter inline-six and a more robust 4.7-liter V-8, the Grand Cherokee catered to a diverse range of driving preferences and requirements.
The available 4.0-liter inline-six engine, a workhorse known for its reliability and respectable power output, delivered 195 horsepower when paired with the four-wheel drive system and a more substantial 235 horsepower in its two-wheel drive configuration. This engine’s torque figures, a critical measure of its pulling power, also varied based on the drivetrain, offering 230 lb.-ft. in the four-wheel drive model and a more generous 295 lb.-ft. in the two-wheel drive variant.
For those seeking a heightened level of performance and towing capacity, the 4.7-liter V-8 engine presented a compelling alternative. Generating a formidable 265 horsepower and an impressive 325 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine provided the necessary muscle for tackling demanding terrains and hauling heavy loads.
Recognizing the importance of driver preference in transmission selection, Jeep offered two distinct options for the 2004 Grand Cherokee. The four-speed automatic transmission, a staple in the automotive industry, provided a familiar and reliable driving experience, while the five-speed automatic transmission offered smoother shifts and the potential for enhanced fuel efficiency.
Further enhancing the Grand Cherokee’s adaptability to diverse driving conditions, Jeep equipped it with two sophisticated four-wheel drive systems. The Select-Trac system empowered drivers to seamlessly switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, adapting to changing road surfaces and weather conditions with ease.
The more advanced Quadra-Trac system, a testament to Jeep’s commitment to off-road prowess, continuously monitored road conditions and intelligently distributed power to the wheels with the most traction, ensuring optimal stability and control, particularly in challenging off-road environments.
Beyond its mechanical capabilities, the 2004 Grand Cherokee offered a spectrum of exterior and interior color options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles and express their individual style. The availability of multiple trim levels, including the Laredo, Limited, and Overland, further expanded the customization possibilities, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences.
A testament to its off-road prowess, many 2004 Grand Cherokees proudly displayed the coveted “Trail Rated” badge, a symbol of rigorous testing and validation against Jeep’s stringent standards for off-road capability and durability. This badge signified that the vehicle had proven its mettle in demanding scenarios, including traction tests, ground clearance assessments, maneuverability evaluations, articulation challenges, and water fording trials.
The 2004 Grand Cherokee’s production run, culminating in approximately 160,000 units, reflected its widespread popularity and the enduring demand for capable and versatile SUVs in the automotive market. This success story unfolded against the backdrop of a fiercely competitive SUV landscape, where automakers constantly vied for market share and consumer attention.
As the final chapter of the second-generation WJ Grand Cherokee, the 2004 model year solidified its place in Jeep’s illustrious history and paved the way for future generations of Grand Cherokees to inherit its legacy of capability, comfort, and enduring appeal.