Jeep Grand Cherokee History
History
The Grand Cherokee debuted at the 1992 Detroit auto show as an early-1993 model, slotting above the XJ Cherokee as a more refined, more powerful mid-size SUV. The original ZJ (1993–1998) established the formula, followed by the WJ (1999–2004), WK (2005–2010), and WK2 (2011–2021).
The fifth-generation WL (2021–present) added a three-row Grand Cherokee L and a 4xe plug-in hybrid. Across its life the Grand Cherokee has carried serious performance flagships, from the 6.1- and 6.4-liter Hemi SRT8/SRT models to the 707-hp supercharged Trackhawk.
Generations
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First generation · ZJ
The original Grand Cherokee; unibody mid-size SUV that launched the line.
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Second generation · WJ
Heavily re-engineered second generation with new powertrains.
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Third generation · WK
Added independent front suspension and the 6.1-liter Hemi SRT8.
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Fourth generation · WK2
A major step up in refinement; home of the 6.4-liter SRT and the 707-hp Trackhawk.
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Fifth generation · WL
Current generation, adding the three-row Grand Cherokee L and a 4xe plug-in hybrid.
Body styles
- 4-door SUV
- Long-wheelbase (Grand Cherokee L)
Notable special editions & performance variants
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SRT8 / SRT
High-performance Hemi V8 — 6.1-liter (420 hp) on the WK, 6.4-liter (470 hp) on the WK2.
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Trackhawk
Supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 with 707 hp — the most powerful production Grand Cherokee.
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Grand Cherokee L
Three-row, long-wheelbase version of the fifth-generation Grand Cherokee.
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Grand Cherokee 4xe
Plug-in-hybrid version of the WL Grand Cherokee.
Related models