As part of Kaiser-Willys’ plan to build the Quad for the US Army, the Jeep brand has changed ownership several times since World War II. The first of four generations of the Wrangler was introduced in 1987, the same year Chrysler acquired the badge from AMC. Jeep also produced a long line of more traditionally styled SUVs in addition to the boxy off-roader that is most associated with the Jeep badge.
1993 marked the debut of the Grand Cherokee, one of these cars. Unlike the original SJ Wagoneer and XJ Cherokee, this first generation was designated ZJ. An exhibition hall staircase and a cinema-grade plate glass window were used to unveil the vehicle at the 1992 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts for its blend of off-road prowess and on-road comfort. However, not all model years are created equal. This guide breaks down the best and worst Jeep Grand Cherokee years, providing valuable insights for potential buyers.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Generations
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ, 1st generation) | 1993-1998 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ, 2nd generation) | 1999-2004 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK, 3rd generation) | 2005-2010 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2, 4th generation) | 2011-2020 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee (WL, 5th generation) | 2021-Present |
To provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of the Grand Cherokee’s evolution, we have included this generational table. The SUV’s longstanding appeal can be explained by understanding the commonalities within each generation.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st generation | 1996, 1998 | 1997 | 1993, 1994, 1995 |
| 2nd generation | 2002, 2004 | 2000, 2003 | 1999, 2001 |
| 3rd generation | 2009, 2010 | 2008 | 2005, 2006, 2007 |
| 4th generation | 2017, 2020 | 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019 | 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016 |
| 5th generation | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 |
In compiling these ratings, we took into account a number of factors. A variety of well-respected review platforms (like Edmunds & Consumer Reports) contributed reliability and owner satisfaction scores, based on owner-reported reliability, annual maintenance costs, and safety ratings.
A lot of it had to do with complaints, investigations, and recalls from NHTSA. As a result of more recalls, we have a lower score due to reliability concerns.
Best & Worst Years For Jeep Grand Cherokee 1st Generation (1993-1998)
Defining the brand’s distinctive approach to SUV design, the Jeep Grand Cherokee was introduced in 1993 with off-road toughness and suburban comfort.
The Best Years: 1993, 1994, and 1995
Grand Cherokee’s dominance in the SUV market was cemented in its first three years.
These models were highly praised for their durability and off-road abilities thanks to their powerful 4.0-liter straight-six engine and exciting Quadra-Trac system.
The Neutral Year: 1996
Despite its impressive build quality and off-road abilities, the 1996 model still didn’t quite reach its early-year heights due to minor electrical issues.
The Worst Years: 1997 and 1998
A significant challenge for the first generation, especially when it came to transmission reliability, occurred in 1997 and 1998, despite its initial success.
In these years, potential buyers and owners were concerned about the high number of recalls.
Best & Worst Years For Jeep Grand Cherokee 2nd Generation (1999-2004)
Power, comfort, and style were all improved in Grand Cherokee’s second generation, setting a new standard for SUVs.
The Best Years: 2002, 2003, and 2004
As with previous years, the 4.7-liter V8 engine and Quadra-Drive system were among the most popular features of the Grand Cherokee during this time. In addition to its superior power, handling, and passenger comfort, the Grand Cherokee received high customer satisfaction ratings.
The Neutral Year: 2001
Despite some criticism, especially concerning its brakes, Jeep’s 2001 SUV remained durable and capable off-road, proving at the same time a worthy SUV contender.
The Worst Years: 1999 and 2000
The Grand Cherokee endured a difficult beginning to the new century, as transmission problems and recalls plagued the 1999 and 2000 models.
New technologies and systems pose challenges that need to be addressed.
Best & Worst Years For Jeep Grand Cherokee 3rd Generation (2005-2010)
Despite the Grand Cherokee’s off-road credentials, the third generation added a lot of advanced technology.
The Best Years: 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010
A great deal of progress was made on the Grand Cherokee between 2007 and 2010. Advanced interiors, refined 4WD systems, and the newly introduced UConnect infotainment system were introduced at this point in the evolution of the Grand Cherokee.
This generation of HEMI engines was particularly praised by owners for its power and overall reliability.
The Worst Years: 2005 and 2006
Transmission and electrical problems plagued the third generation in its early years.
There are stumbling blocks along the path to progress even when designing the most creative models.
Best & Worst Years For Jeep Grand Cherokee 4th Generation (2011-2020)
Featuring improved fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, and an improved level of refinement, the fourth generation Grand Cherokee broke into the luxury SUV segment.
The Best Years: 2017, 2019, and 2020
With high-end aesthetics, cutting-edge driver-assistance systems, and EcoDiesel engines, the Grand Cherokee from 2017, 2019, and 2020 represented the Grand Cherokee at its best.
As the Grand Cherokee matured in the luxury SUV market, these years were also marked by its maturation.
The Neutral Years: 2013 and 2016
Despite the fact that the 2013 and 2016 models were reliable SUVs, they couldn’t match the generation’s best years due to issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission.
The Worst Years: 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2018
It is unfortunate that the new transmission and infotainment systems experienced frequent issues during the first and middle years of the 4th generation.
Despite the Grand Cherokee’s aspirations, these models highlighted the difficulties faced by rapid technological development.
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Best & Worst Years For Jeep Grand Cherokee 5th Generation (2021-Present)
A hybrid drivetrain, advanced technologies, and luxury features are just a few of the features offered by the current Grand Cherokee generation, which pushes design boundaries in SUVs.
The Best Year: 2023
A high reliability rating and praise for the hybrid powertrain have already been given to the 2023 model.
Jeep’s storied heritage and its commitment to preserving the environment can be seen in this model.
The Neutral Year: 2022
Despite some software glitches, the 2022 Grand Cherokee maintains the Jeep’s reputation for luxury, power, and off-road prowess.
The Worst Year: 2021
As a result, the infotainment system and drivetrain had problems in the 5th generation’s debut year.
Even industry leaders can experience setbacks in pursuit of innovation, despite the Grand Cherokee being a stepping stone in its evolution.
Conclusion
Finally, we would like to ask you the following question after reviewing the Jeep Grand Cherokee generation-by-generation and year-by-year:
In Jeep’s Grand Cherokee, which model year is the most powerful, luxurious, and capable off-road? Do you think the legacy of this iconic SUV could have been better upheld in which year?
