Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Generation | Grand Cherokee III (WK) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.7i V8 (326 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 21.3 l/100 km (11 US mpg, 13.3 UK mpg, 4.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg, 23.5 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 15.4 l/100 km (15.3 US mpg, 18.3 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 208 km/h (129.25 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 326 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 4000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EZB |
| Engine displacement | 5654 cm3 (345.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.5 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.9 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.4 l (15.22 US qt | 12.67 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2750 kg (6062.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 978 l (34.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1909 l (67.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 78 l (20.61 US gal | 17.16 UK gal) |
| Length | 4750 mm (187.01 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2781 mm (109.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.41 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The 2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7i V8 4×4 Automatic represented the pinnacle of performance for the WK generation. Positioned above the 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8 models, it offered a significant power upgrade for those prioritizing acceleration and towing capacity. The WK platform itself was a major overhaul from the previous WJ, featuring a fully independent front suspension, a redesigned interior, and improved refinement. This variant was primarily sold in North America, where large SUVs with powerful V8 engines remained highly popular. It aimed to deliver a blend of luxury, capability, and performance, appealing to buyers who needed a versatile vehicle for both daily driving and off-road adventures.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 5.7i model lies the EZB engine, a 5.7-liter (345 cubic inch) V8. This engine utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, a configuration common in American V8s. The EZB features a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder intake port. The valvetrain employs an overhead valve (OHV) design with two valves per cylinder. This design, while not as modern as overhead cam systems, proved reliable and contributed to the engine’s robust torque output. The 545RFE five-speed automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this engine. This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting, although it isn’t the most fuel-efficient unit. The transmission features electronically controlled shifts and a tow/haul mode for improved performance when towing trailers or navigating challenging terrain.
Driving Characteristics
The 326 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque produced by the 5.7L V8 provided brisk acceleration for a vehicle of its size. Zero to sixty mph times were consistently in the 7-second range, making it one of the quicker SUVs in its class. The 545RFE transmission, while smooth, is geared more towards torque delivery than outright speed. Gear ratios are optimized for towing and off-road crawling, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to some competitors with more aggressively geared transmissions. Compared to the 3.7L V6, the 5.7L offered a dramatically improved driving experience, particularly when fully loaded or towing. Against the 4.7L V8, the 5.7L provided a noticeable power advantage, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.7i V8 typically came standard with a well-equipped interior. Leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium sound system were common features. The interior also included automatic climate control, power-adjustable pedals, and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and a sunroof. Exterior features typically included alloy wheels, fog lights, and a roof rack. The Limited trim level, often paired with the 5.7L engine, added even more luxury features, such as upgraded leather, wood trim, and a premium audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The WK Grand Cherokee featured a fully independent front suspension, a significant improvement over the solid front axle used in previous generations. The rear suspension utilized a multi-link design. This setup provided a more comfortable ride and improved handling. The 5.7i model typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to balance on-road comfort with off-road capability. Stabilizer bars were used front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the 5.7i Grand Cherokee for its powerful engine and comfortable ride. However, fuel economy was a common criticism, with the V8 engine consuming a significant amount of gasoline. Compared to the V6 and 4.7L models, the 5.7i offered superior performance but at a higher price point and with lower fuel efficiency. The 5.7L was often compared to similar V8-powered SUVs from Chevrolet, Ford, and GMC. The Jeep generally held its own in terms of performance and capability, but some competitors offered more refined interiors or more advanced technology.
Legacy
The EZB 5.7L V8, when properly maintained, proved to be a durable and reliable engine. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional sensor failures, but these were generally not major concerns. The 545RFE transmission also demonstrated good longevity. Today, the 2005-2008 Grand Cherokee 5.7i V8 remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking a capable and affordable SUV with a powerful engine. Its robust construction and readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal. While fuel economy remains a concern, the 5.7i Grand Cherokee offers a compelling combination of performance, capability, and value.
