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Jeep Grand Cherokee: Not Your Everyday SUV!
2008 Grand Cherokee WK
At first there was only the Cherokee XJ from 1984 through 2001. Then from 1993 through 1998 Jeep included an upscale version of the XJ called the ZJ Grand Cherokee. The designation WJ Grand Cherokee was used from 1999 through 2004.
1993 Grand Cherokee Wagoneer
Even though they had more bells and whistles than the basic XJs, the ZJ "Grands" shared the same tough functionality and characteristics of it's less frilled sibling. One major characteristic shared was the solid front axles (4x4) which allowed for pretty impressive off-road capabilities, especially with aftermarket goodies to beef things up a bit. You could travel the highways in relative luxury and yet get to some remote back-country location if desired. Grand Cherokees are less often seen off road than most of their relatives and predecessors, however they can make formidable rigs with proper aftermarket additions including suspension lifts, bigger tires and even armor.
Jeep Grand Cherokee with Bigger tires and Suspension Lift
Many (possibly most)Grand Cherokees are, and were sold in 2-wheel drive versions which is a great option
for those who will never or rarely end up out in the boonies. The 2-wheel drives were and still
are much less expensive than the optional 4x4 versions. They are also quite popular with women,
and families, or women with families, or...this is getting confusing! Let's move on.
2007 WK Grand Cherokee Jeep The new generation Jeep Grand Cherokee WK was introduced in 2005. This tamed down model features a 4-wheel drive system, however it is of the Independent Front Suspension (IFS) variety which lacks the off-road toughness of the near bullet-proof solid front axles. However,these IFS systems are great in most mud, snow and ice conditions, as well as mild to moderate off-road situations. But...who really cares about off-road capability in a vehicle that starts around $30,000 base price for a 2008 model, and can run upwards to $44,000 for the full optioned version. If you can afford to light your campfire with $100 bills, it's probably no sweat. You could afford a chauffeur to drive your rig for you. Personally, I would be scared to death of getting a cactus scratch on the door panel, or having a rogue raccoon poop on the luggage rack. All kidding aside, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a very nice vehicle (it should be for that price...Okay, I'll shut-up about the price). You can get one of these beauties with a V-6 (gas), V-6 (turbo-diesel), V-8 (4.7L) and V-8 (5.7L Hemi) in 2- or 4-wheel drive with loads of goodies and option available. Well, I'll get mine when I win the World Poker Tournament..........don't ask!
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