The wind howls a mournful tune, whipping fallen leaves into a frenzy across the asphalt. It’s the kind of autumn day that smells of woodsmoke and damp earth, a day that begs for a drive down a forgotten country lane. And what better companion for such a journey than a Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ)? This particular machine, a stalwart of the late 1990s and early 2000s, represents a pivotal moment in SUV history, a time when these vehicles were shedding their utilitarian skin and embracing a newfound refinement.
As I grip the familiar leather steering wheel and guide the WJ through the twists and turns, memories come flooding back. I remember when the Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) first burst onto the scene, a fresh face in a burgeoning market. It was a bold declaration from Jeep, a signal that they were ready to conquer not just the rugged trails, but the hearts and minds of everyday drivers. The new Jeep Grand Cherokee aimed to be more than just an off-roader; it aimed to be a comfortable and stylish daily driver, appealing to a wider range of buyers.
The WJ wasn’t simply a refresh of the existing Grand Cherokee; it was a complete reinvention. Jeep, in their characteristically audacious style, decided to tear down the existing platform and rebuild it from the ground up. Only a handful of parts were carried over – the essential nuts and bolts, if you will. They embarked on a two-and-a-half-year odyssey to develop the WJ, pouring their heart and soul into crafting an SUV that was both undeniably modern and instantly recognizable as a Grand Cherokee.
One of the most striking changes was the relocation of the spare tire. Gone was the awkward side-mounted spare, a hallmark of older, more rugged SUVs. Instead, it was neatly tucked away beneath the cargo floor, freeing up valuable space and giving the WJ a sleeker, more contemporary profile. This design change not only improved the aesthetics of the Jeep Grand Cherokee but also enhanced its aerodynamics, contributing to better fuel efficiency.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the old, heavy V8 engines were replaced with a new generation of PowerTech V8s. While some die-hard Jeep enthusiasts might have lamented the slight dip in torque, these new powerplants were lighter, more fuel-efficient, and offered comparable performance on the road. The fuel tank also received a significant upgrade, expanding to a generous 20.5 gallons, meaning fewer stops at the petrol station and more time spent enjoying the open road. Even the venerable inline 6-cylinder engine, a mainstay of the Jeep lineup, wasn’t overlooked. It received a redesigned intake manifold, boosting its horsepower by a respectable 10 ponies for the 1999 model year.
One peculiar detail that always fascinated me about the WJ was its wheel bolt pattern. Jeep, traditionally a devotee of the Mopar 5 x 4.5 pattern, opted for a wider 5 x 5 pattern for the WJ. This seemingly minor change undoubtedly sparked countless debates among Jeep aficionados in online forums and around campfires. But it also hinted at the WJ‘s more robust and capable nature, allowing for the fitment of larger wheels and tires, further enhancing its off-road capabilities.
Off-Road Prowess
Speaking of capability, if venturing off the beaten path was your cup of tea, the WJ had a secret weapon: Quadra-Drive. This optional four-wheel drive system was a masterpiece of engineering, showcasing Jeep‘s unwavering commitment to off-road prowess. At its heart was the New Venture Gear NV247 transfer case, a sophisticated two-speed, chain-driven unit that employed a clever device called a gerotor. This gerotor, essentially a clutch pack connected to a hydraulic pump, seamlessly distributed power between the front and rear axles, ensuring that the wheels with the most grip received the necessary torque.
The NV247 offered three distinct modes: 4-All Time, Neutral, and 4-Lo. In 4-All Time mode, the rear wheels received the power under normal driving conditions, providing a traditional rear-wheel drive experience. But if the rear wheels started to slip, the gerotor would jump into action, building hydraulic pressure and progressively transferring power to the front axle until all four wheels were spinning in unison. Neutral mode was designed for towing, while 4-Lo mode locked the front and rear axles together, providing a 2.72 reduction gear ratio for conquering particularly challenging obstacles.
What truly set Quadra-Drive apart was its integration with Jeep‘s Vari-Lok differentials in each axle. These differentials, also utilizing gerotors, could automatically manage traction between the wheels on either side of the axle. If one wheel lost grip, the system would seamlessly transfer power to the wheel with more traction, ensuring that the WJ maintained its forward momentum. The combination of the NV247 and Vari-Lok differentials created a system that could intelligently distribute power to all four wheels, maximizing grip in even the most demanding conditions. It gave the WJ a significant advantage in the off-road arena, allowing it to tackle terrain that would leave lesser SUVs floundering.
Transmission Technology
The WJ also showcased some impressive advancements in transmission technology. The 45RFE and 545RFE automatic transmissions were unique in their use of three planetary gear sets, theoretically giving them six speeds. While they were programmed to utilize only five of these ratios, they were, in essence, the first six-speed transmissions produced in significant numbers. They were ingeniously designed to use four ratios for upshifts and a different second gear for downshifts, a quirk that Chrysler chose to downplay by referring to them as “4-speed” and “5-speed” automatics.
The 545RFE, however, was programmed to utilize all six ratios, effectively acting as a five-speed with an alternate second gear for downshifts. This translated to a lower engine speed of 2000 rpm at 70 mph, compared to the 45RFE’s 2200 rpm at the same speed. Interestingly, the 45RFE’s programming could be modified to unlock the extra gear, revealing its true six-speed potential. The trusty 42RE four-speed automatic, a familiar face from the previous generation, continued to serve the inline 6-cylinder engine, albeit with some minor refinements.
Interior Refinement and Ergonomic Design
Stepping inside the WJ, you were greeted by a completely redesigned interior. The rear doors were larger, providing easier access for passengers, and controls for various functions had been relocated for improved ergonomics. The Electronic Vehicle Information Center, previously nestled below the radio, was moved to a more prominent position above the windshield, becoming a standard feature on all models from 2000 onwards.
If you opted for the Limited model, you were treated to automatic dual-zone climate control, a feature that was still a relative luxury at the time. Audiophiles could indulge in the Infinity Audio package, which included a 10-disc CD changer, a welcome upgrade from the standard single-disc unit. Front bucket seats were standard across all models, providing comfort and support for both driver and passenger.
A Collaboration with Porsche
Jeep, in a bid to further enhance the WJ‘s structural integrity, partnered with none other than Porsche to develop the UniFrame construction. This unusual approach combined the strength and durability of a traditional body-on-frame construction with the benefits of a unitized construction. The result was a vehicle that offered a refined ride, a robust passenger compartment, and exceptional protection in the event of a collision.
Model Year Updates and Facelifts
Over its lifespan, the WJ received a few updates to keep it looking fresh. In 2004, it underwent a minor facelift, gaining round fog lamps, a revised lower front fascia, and a new body-color matched inset grille design. Export models, produced in Austria and designated as “WG,” had subtle differences from their US counterparts, including a relocated radio antenna, power-folding mirrors, height-adjustable headlights, and unique trim details. These WG models were also produced in Argentina for the local market.
Innovative Features and Class-Leading Technology
The first-generation Grand Cherokee (ZJ) had set a high standard with its innovative features, and the WJ continued that tradition. It boasted a host of features that were either exclusive to its class or simply unavailable on its competitors. HomeLink, for example, allowed drivers to program up to three garage door openers or other remote-controlled devices using buttons located in the overhead console. The automatic dual-zone climate control system employed infrared sensors to monitor the surface temperature of both the driver and front passenger, ensuring that both occupants enjoyed their preferred temperature.
The Jeep Memory System was a godsend for households with multiple drivers. It allowed two drivers to store their preferred settings for the driver’s seat, side mirrors, and radio, recalling them at the touch of a button or upon inserting their designated key into the ignition. Keyless entry remotes were color-coded and numbered, making it easy for drivers to identify their own.
2002 Refresh: New Models and Updated Features
In 2002, the WJ received its first major refresh, introducing three new models: the budget-friendly Sport, the Laredo-based Special Edition, and the range-topping Overland. The Limited and Overland models gained a new 4.7L High-Output PowerTech V8 engine, while all models received updated radios. The Laredo and Limited now featured a standard A/M-F/M stereo with a single-disc CD player, while the Overland boasted a more sophisticated unit with Radio Data System (RDS) and both cassette and single-disc CD players. Both radios offered controls for an optional ten-disc remote CD changer located in the rear cargo area. The Infinity Gold premium audio system saw the removal of the ‘Infinity Gold’ emblem from the front door speaker grilles.
The Laredo, in a bid to reduce costs, no longer featured carpeted front and rear door panels. All models received a new chrome ‘ Jeep‘ emblem on the steering wheel and updated interior accent trim. The Sport, Laredo, and Special Edition models featured faux aluminum trim, while the Limited and Overland models sported faux woodgrain trim. New cloth and leather seating surfaces were introduced, giving buyers more choices to personalize their interiors.
The Limited model received a new front grille and headlamps, and new tire and wheel combinations were made available across the range. A full-color GPS navigation radio, complete with a single-disc CD player and ten-disc remote CD changer, became an option on the Limited and Overland models. All radios were compatible with dealer-installed Sirius Satellite Radio and the UConnect hands-free Bluetooth phone system.
For added safety, front side-impact airbags and power-adjustable foot pedals became available as options. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) could be used to determine whether a particular WJ was equipped with frontal airbags only or with both frontal and front side-impact airbags. Center roof rack cross rails became a dealer-installed accessory for all models.
2004 Facelift and the Columbia Edition
In 2004, the WJ received its second exterior facelift, with revised front grilles and fascias for all models. The Laredo gained newly styled round front fog lamps as an optional extra, and the Laredo-based Special Edition model made a return to the lineup. A new Columbia Edition model, based on the Laredo, was introduced in partnership with Columbia Sportswear, featuring unique seat trim, larger aluminum-alloy wheels, and a complimentary Columbia parka.
The base Laredo model was simplified, becoming available only with the “E” Package, which offered a more basic set of standard features. Production of the WJ came to an end in mid-2004, making way for the all-new third-generation Grand Cherokee (WK). As a final touch, all 2004 models equipped with four-wheel drive received Jeep‘s “Trail Rated 4X4” certification, a badge proudly displayed on the front left fender, signifying their off-road capabilities.
The Legacy of the Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ)
The Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) marked a significant evolution for the model. It successfully blended on-road comfort with off-road capability, appealing to a wider range of buyers than ever before. Its modern design, powerful engine options, and advanced features solidified its position as a leader in the SUV segment. It was a vehicle that could effortlessly handle the daily commute, yet was equally at home exploring the wilderness.
The WJ, in many ways, defined the modern SUV, paving the way for the sophisticated and capable vehicles we see on the roads today. It was a machine that left a lasting impression, a testament to Jeep‘s engineering prowess and its deep understanding of what drivers truly desired.
As I bring the WJ to a gentle stop, the engine ticking softly as it cools, I can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for this iconic SUV. It was a vehicle that was ahead of its time, a true pioneer in the world of SUVs. Even today, it remains a capable and desirable machine, a reminder of a time when Jeep was at the top of its game. The WJ‘s legacy lives on, not just in the vehicles that followed in its tire tracks, but also in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to experience its unique blend of comfort, capability, and style.