The Jeep Grand Cherokee IV (WK2), particularly the facelifted version produced from 2017 to 2022, represents a significant evolution in the iconic American SUV. This generation, built on the WK2 platform, aimed to balance luxury, capability, and on-road refinement. Within the lineup, the 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission occupied a crucial middle ground, offering a compelling blend of performance and efficiency for a broad range of buyers. This variant was positioned as the volume seller, appealing to those seeking a capable SUV without the higher price tag and fuel consumption of the more powerful V8 options or the diesel models available in other markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Grand Cherokee |
| Generation | Grand Cherokee IV (WK2, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (295 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 year |
| End of production | 2022 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 168.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 295 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 4000 rpm (260.36 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Pentastar / ERB |
| Engine displacement | 3604 cm3 (219.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.9 l (10.46 US qt | 8.71 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2098-2270 kg (4625.3 – 5004.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2948 kg (6499.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 678-850 kg (1494.73 – 1873.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1028 l (36.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1934 l (68.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 93.1 l (24.59 US gal | 20.48 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2818 kg (6212.63 lbs.) |
| Length | 4822 mm (189.84 in.) |
| Width | 1943 mm (76.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2154 mm (84.8 in.) |
| Height | 1761 mm (69.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2914 mm (114.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1623 mm (63.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218-264 mm (8.58 – 10.39 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.371 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 26.2-36.1° |
| Departure angle | 24-27.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19-22.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 330×14 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/60 R18; 265/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Jeep Grand Cherokee IV (WK2) facelift, launched in 2017, continued the model’s legacy as a premium SUV with genuine off-road capability. The 3.6-liter V6 engine, coupled with the ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of the lineup from 2017 through 2022. This configuration offered a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate power for everyday driving and light towing. It served as the entry point to the Grand Cherokee range for many buyers, providing a more accessible price point compared to the higher-trim V8 and diesel options. The facelift brought updated styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced technology features, further solidifying the Grand Cherokee’s position in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand Cherokee variant is the 3.6-liter “Pentastar” V6 engine (engine code ERB). This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring a lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads. It utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The Pentastar engine is known for its relatively smooth operation and respectable power output. The eight-speed automatic transmission, manufactured by ZF, is a sophisticated unit that contributes to both fuel efficiency and responsive shifting. It features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing the engine to operate in its optimal power band more frequently. The transmission is electronically controlled and offers a manual shift mode for greater driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6L V6 automatic Grand Cherokee delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the V8 models, the 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque provide sufficient acceleration for most driving situations. The eight-speed transmission helps to keep the engine in its sweet spot, minimizing turbo lag and providing smooth gear changes. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in urban traffic. However, it does slightly diminish the driver’s sense of control and responsiveness. The automatic’s programming prioritizes fuel economy, resulting in a more relaxed driving experience than the more aggressively tuned transmissions found in performance-oriented SUVs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6L V6 automatic Grand Cherokee was typically offered in several trim levels, including Laredo, Limited, and Altitude. Standard features on the base Laredo trim included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a rearview camera. Higher trims, such as the Limited, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery ranged from cloth on the base models to leather on the higher trims. Dashboard configurations were consistent across trims, with a focus on user-friendly controls and a modern aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The WK2 Grand Cherokee features an independent front suspension with coil springs and a multi-link rear suspension. Many models were equipped with optional air suspension, which allowed for adjustable ride height and improved off-road capability. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a comfortable ride on paved roads, while still maintaining a degree of off-road competence. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.6L V6 automatic Grand Cherokee was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. However, some reviewers noted that the V6 engine could feel strained when fully loaded or when climbing steep hills. Compared to the V8 models, the V6 offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of outright performance. The V6 also proved to be more reliable than some of the more complex diesel variants, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable SUV.
Legacy
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain. While not without its minor issues (such as potential oil leaks and timing chain wear), it generally requires minimal maintenance and offers good long-term reliability. In the used car market, the 2017-2022 Grand Cherokee with the 3.6L V6 automatic remains a popular choice, offering a compelling combination of value, capability, and comfort. Its relatively affordable price point and proven track record make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a well-rounded mid-size SUV.
