Since it was first introduced in the spring of 1992, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has always been a popular choice in the mid-sized SUV segment.
Over the years, the Grand Cherokee has evolved into a luxurious SUV with serious off-road prowess. With so many SUVs taking the path towards car-like, the Grand Cherokee prides itself on being fully capable of traversing rugged terrain.
Moderate changes have been made to Grand Cherokee for 2004, as a totally new model is due out for 2005. For the 2004 model year, the Jeep Grand Cherokee sports a new front fascia, new grille and new fog lamp appearance. Also, there are five models to choose from: Laredo, the new Special and Freedom Editions, Limited and Overland.
The new Special Edition model has the monochromatic exterior design cues of the Limited model. The four-wheel drive Special Edition models also include fog lamps, Quadra Trac II transfer case, AM/FM/ Cassette/10-disc CD with Infinity speakers and a Special Edition badge.
Both the Special Edition and Freedom Edition feature a standard 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine (195 horsepower) mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. A 4.7-liter V8 and five-speed automatic are optional.
The 4.7-liter V8 produces 235 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, while the High-Output version of that engine delivers 260 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque.
The successful top-of-the-line Grand Cherokee Overland model continues into 2004 with the 4.7-liter High-Output V8 engine, a high level of standard equipment and premium appointments, making it the most powerful and luxurious Grand Cherokee ever.
In keeping with the Jeep brand's "go-anywhere, do-anything" philosophy, the 2004 Grand Cherokee is offered with a new factory-installed Navigation Radio for the first time. This new system combines a 4.9-inch full-color display, AM/FM Stereo, CD Player and navigation system all in one unit.
Jeep Grand Cherokee models are available in both two- and four-wheel drive. Four-wheel-drive Laredo models feature the Select-Trac full-time transfer case with low range. Available for 2004 on the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo is the Quadra Trac I transfer case, which is a derivative of the award-winning Quadra-Trac II transfer case.
The Quadra-Trac I single-speed transfer case will offer simplicity and convenience for those customers who do not tow heavy loads. There is no need to shift levers; Quadra Trac I will respond automatically when there is a loss of traction.
The Quadra-Trac II on-demand transfer case with low range is standard on the Special Edition and Limited models and optional on Laredo. The Quadra-Drive system, which combines the Quadra-Trac II transfer case with Vari-Lok axles, is able to send nearly 100 percent of the developed engine torque to just one wheel for outstanding capability both on- and off-road. Quadra-Drive is optional on Limited and standard on Overland.
The Grand Cherokee seats up to five passengers, and offers ample head- and shoulder room. However, maximum cargo space is a mere 71 cubic feet. There are plenty of standard features inside Grand Cherokee and those with finer tastes will appreciate the higher trim levels with leather and wood trim.
My co-tester and I drove a well-equipped Limited version with the Quadra-Drive system. While we didn't get the opportunity to test it off-road, I'll take Jeep's word that it's quite worthy. However, on dry pavement, we both experienced crow-hop when making sharp turns.
And because the Quadra-Drive system is full-time, there's no way to turn it off and eliminate that undesirable attribute.
Also, we weren't impressed with the Grand Cherokee's on-road ride traits. Over uneven pavement our Limited tester waddled and exhibited a fair amount of body roll. Overall, the Grand Cherokee feels big and heavy.
If you're looking for a SUV because you want the ability to go anywhere and tow just about anything, the Grand Cherokee is a logical choice. But because of its truck-like mannerisms, some may not care for its on-road characteristics.
2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4x4
Engine: 4.7-liter High-Output(260 hp) V8
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Drive Type: Full-time 4WD
Fuel Economy: 15 city/20 highway
Base Price: $34,770
As Tested: $41,500 (including $645 for destination)
Website: www.jeep.com