Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV made by Jeep, a division of Daimler-Chrysler. European Grand Cherokees are manufactured in Austria by Magna Steyr.

Development

The Grand Cherokee was a spinoff of the notably smaller Jeep Cherokee. Based on the Jeep Concept 1 (1989), the Grand Cherokee's origins date back to 1983 when American Motors engineers were designing an XJ Cherokee successor. The first generation (ZJ) was the first Chrysler-badged Jeep product since AMC came up with the concept; the AMC engineers/designers behind the project, later Chrysler employees (after the 1987 buyout) were pushing for a late 1980s release date; however, then-CEO Lee Iacocca was pushing for redesigned Chrysler minivans, delaying the ZJ's release until late 1992.

The Grand Cherokee debuted in grand fashion at the 1992 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. Then-Chrysler president Robert Lutz drove Detroit mayor, Coleman Young up the steps of Cobo Hall and through a plate glass window to show off the new vehicle. Production of the Grand Cherokee started shortly afterward in the purpose-built Jefferson North Assembly in Detroit, Michigan and has remained there since.

ZJ (1993–1998)

The ZJ models, manufactured from 1993 to 1998, originally came in 3 general trims, the Base, Laredo, and the Limited. The Base model (also known as SE) offered basic features such as full instruments, cloth interior, and a five-speed manual transmission; The SE model was dropped in 1996 in favor of the Laredo. The Laredo is the mid-scale model, features included added body cladding, fancier seats, power windows, power door locks, and cruise control; exterior features display a medium grey plastic lower body paneling and five star spoke aluminum wheels. The Limited is the premium model, with the lower body paneling being the same color as the vehicle color. The Limited also boasts features such as leather seating, optional power sunroof, mirrors, seats, and remote keyless entry system; a basic onboard computer; and waffle-like cast aluminum wheels.

1996 brought cosmetic changes ranging from improved body modeling (grille, bumpers), better wind aerodynamics, and intergrated foglights; Interior features added dual-airbags and increased farbic quality for seating. The AMC 4.0 L I6 engine was also refined, though receiving slightly less horsepower but gained more torque and presented quieter operation. Limited models that year and on had more luxury items such as driver placement memory, remote radio control from the steering wheel, and varible assist while driving and parking.

Specialty models included the Orvis (1995-1997); a Grand Cherokee Limited package that featured a exterior color scheme of deep hunter green with red and gold strip accents (1995), 96-97 Orvis exteriors were of hunter green tone with basic gold striping; the interior was a two-tone green and champagne seats complimented with red accents and "Orvis" company badging. A sporty TSi model (1997-1998) briefly debuted, exterior features included single color body paneling, with a light blue striping accent. TSi packages came equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, 225/70R16 tires, leather seats and premium sound system. The 5.9 Limited was produced only for the 1998 model year, having more luxury than that of the regular Limited. It housed a powerful 5.9 L V8 engine with an output of 245 hp and 345 foot-pounds of torque, going from zero to 60 mph in only 7.3 seconds, making it the quickest SUV available that year. Other features separated the 5.9 from the standard Limited model, such as mesh grille insert, unique five-spoke alloy wheels, improved premium stereo, and softer leather trim.

For 1993 alone, Jeep resurrected the Grand Wagoneer name for a special luxury version of the Grand Cherokee with the 5.2 L V8, this marked the last appearance for the Grand Wagoneer from the Jeep lineup.

4WD systems included Command-Trac, a part-time unit offering temporary 4-wheel asistance; Command-Trac was dropped from lineup in conjunction with the SE trim in 1996. Select-Trac had the option of either full-time or part-time operation; Both shift-on-the-fly Command-Trac and Select-Trac were already avaliable for the Cherokee XJ lineup, and were adopted to the ZJ platform. Exclusive to the Grand Cherokee was the introduction of Quadra-Trac having all-time four-wheel assistance only, this was standard on all Limited and specialty trims and optional for Laredo models alike. Two-wheel-drive models were sold though only for "Laredo" trims in late 1993, it wasn't until 1994 when 2WD was available for Limited; and in 1997 5.2 L V8 engines were sold along with 2WD.

The Grand Cherokee V8 was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list and was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1993.

Models

Engines

WJ (1999–2004)

The redesigned WJ 1999 Grand Cherokee shared just 127 parts with its predecessor. The structure was stiffened (by Porsche Engineering) for sharper steering and lighter weight. The spare tire was relocated from the side of the cargo compartment to under the floor to great relief of owners. The two heavy pushrod V8 engines were replaced by a single aluminum SOHC unit, Chrysler's new PowerTech. Although this engine produced less torque than both previous V8s, it was lighter and got much better fuel economy.

A notable feature that was available this generation is the automatic AWD option called Quadra-Drive. With three viscous clutches, it was the only truck all wheel drive system on the time with triple difs, as Toyota had removed the front locker from their Land Cruiser.

The 45RFE automatic transmission in the WJ cherokee was notable. It included 3 planetary gearsets rather than the two normally used in a 4-speed automatic. This gave it six theoretical speeds, and it would have been the first six-speed transmission ever produced in volume, but it was programmed to only use five of these ratios. Four were used for upshifts, with a different second gear for downshifts. Although five of the six ratios were used, Chrysler decided to call it a "4-speed automatic".

Models

The Laredo and luxurious Limited trim levels were standard models.

Specialty models:

These specialty models appeared for a brief time, The Sport was slightly more equipped than the Laredo and offered a two-tone black trim interior for style. The Special Edition was introduced offering the same quality of the Limited, differences include 4.7 L V8 engine and slightly revised front grille were standard issue on the Special Edition. The Overland (appropriated after the former Jeep parent, Willys-Overland) is top-of-the-line of the WJ brand boasting the 4.7 L H.O. V8 as well as a wealth of standard features such as front and side-curtain airbags, an Infinity sound system with 10-disc changer, heated/power front seats, sidestep rails, power sunroof, wood/leather steering wheel and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Engines

WK (2005–present)

An all-new WK Grand Cherokee debuted in 2004 for the 2005 model year. The exterior is a slight departure from the other Grand Cherokees, but maintains a luxurious feel of the interior. Notable features are a GPS navigation system, rear seat DVD player (both available on Limited and Overland trims), and Quadra-Drive II AWD (std on 5.7 L Hemi available on 4.7 L).

Models

Engines

SRT-8

An SRT-8 version of the Grand Cherokee debuted at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. Powered by a 415 hp (310 kW) version of the 6.1 L Hemi, it also features upgraded Brembo brakes, a special transfer case, and interior and exterior updates.

BlueTec

A version of the Grand Cherokee with DaimlerChrysler's BlueTec Diesel V6 from the E320 is expected in 2006.

References


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A version of the Grand Cherokee with DaimlerChrysler's BlueTec Diesel V6 from the E320 is expected in 2006. Fragrances listed by year of launch:. Powered by a 415 hp (310 kW) version of the 6.1 L Hemi, it also features upgraded Brembo brakes, a special transfer case, and interior and exterior updates. Sander will buy her company back persist till today. An SRT-8 version of the Grand Cherokee debuted at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. Rumors that Prada Group plans to sell Jil Sander and that Ms. Notable features are a GPS navigation system, rear seat DVD player (both available on Limited and Overland trims), and Quadra-Drive II AWD (std on 5.7 L Hemi available on 4.7 L). Sander herself had always been strictly against launching a secondary line or bridge collection.

The exterior is a slight departure from the other Grand Cherokees, but maintains a luxurious feel of the interior. Ms. An all-new WK Grand Cherokee debuted in 2004 for the 2005 model year. To this day, the house produces only two pricey high-end lines, one for women and one for men. V8 as well as a wealth of standard features such as front and side-curtain airbags, an Infinity sound system with 10-disc changer, heated/power front seats, sidestep rails, power sunroof, wood/leather steering wheel and 17-inch alloy wheels. Simons’ first women’s collection (he has never designed for women before) for the house of Jil Sander will be shown at the February 2006 fashion shows in Milan. The Overland (appropriated after the former Jeep parent, Willys-Overland) is top-of-the-line of the WJ brand boasting the 4.7 L H.O. The Fall/Winter collection, however, received accolades from the critics (Reference: IHT).

The Special Edition was introduced offering the same quality of the Limited, differences include 4.7 L V8 engine and slightly revised front grille were standard issue on the Special Edition. (Source: IHT). These specialty models appeared for a brief time, The Sport was slightly more equipped than the Laredo and offered a two-tone black trim interior for style. Suzy Menkes, fashion director with the International Herald Tribune and the goddess of fashion criticism, said that some items in the collection “made exceptional pieces” but overall it “was not as strong as” before. Specialty models:. Reactions by the press to the Spring/Summer show have been quite favorable but also reserved. The Laredo and luxurious Limited trim levels were standard models. Sander and out of respect for the brand he said of the collection that he “wanted to strip it down so there was nothing that wasn't necessary” (Source: Style).

Although five of the six ratios were used, Chrysler decided to call it a "4-speed automatic". In the spirit of Ms. Four were used for upshifts, with a different second gear for downshifts. His Spring/Summer 2006 men’s collection for Jil Sander was presented in Milan in late June 2005, the Fall/Winter 2006/07 collection opened Milan Fashion Week in mid-January 2006. This gave it six theoretical speeds, and it would have been the first six-speed transmission ever produced in volume, but it was programmed to only use five of these ratios. In May 2005, it was announced that Raf Simons, a Belgian industrial designer who also has his own men’s label and is a professor at Vienna's University of Applied Arts, had become creative director for the women’s and men’s collection. It included 3 planetary gearsets rather than the two normally used in a 4-speed automatic. The slim fits, so typical of Jil Sander, have meanwhile been adjusted to mainstream sizes.

The 45RFE automatic transmission in the WJ cherokee was notable. Sander’s departure an in-house design team was formed to take care of the collections. With three viscous clutches, it was the only truck all wheel drive system on the time with triple difs, as Toyota had removed the front locker from their Land Cruiser. For the time after Ms. A notable feature that was available this generation is the automatic AWD option called Quadra-Drive. The losses in 2004 had been almost € 30 million. Although this engine produced less torque than both previous V8s, it was lighter and got much better fuel economy. The Prada Group still holds a 98% stake in the company which generated losses of € 10 million after taxes in the first half-year of 2005.

The two heavy pushrod V8 engines were replaced by a single aluminum SOHC unit, Chrysler's new PowerTech. The corporation will be transformed into a holding company with the Italian subsidiaries taking over administrative and business duties. The spare tire was relocated from the side of the cargo compartment to under the floor to great relief of owners. All that is left in Germany is an office for press, distribution and marketing personnel, the staff at the boutiques as well as the Hamburg atelier for the women’s collection. The structure was stiffened (by Porsche Engineering) for sharper steering and lighter weight. Subsequently, the glamorous Jil Sander showroom in Hamburg was closed, production was entirely moved to Italy and of more than 300 jobs only about 50 remained. The redesigned WJ 1999 Grand Cherokee shared just 127 parts with its predecessor. But apparently the banks refused Bertelli the necessary loans.

The Grand Cherokee V8 was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list and was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1993. Sander herself had made heavy investments, so that Jil Sander AG could be sold from the Prada Group, already heavily indebted itself. Two-wheel-drive models were sold though only for "Laredo" trims in late 1993, it wasn't until 1994 when 2WD was available for Limited; and in 1997 5.2 L V8 engines were sold along with 2WD. It is rumored that it had been Bertelli’s turn to financially support the company, after Ms. Exclusive to the Grand Cherokee was the introduction of Quadra-Trac having all-time four-wheel assistance only, this was standard on all Limited and specialty trims and optional for Laredo models alike. Bertelli. Select-Trac had the option of either full-time or part-time operation; Both shift-on-the-fly Command-Trac and Select-Trac were already avaliable for the Cherokee XJ lineup, and were adopted to the ZJ platform. Sander permanently resigned from her post again after insurmountable differences with Mr.

4WD systems included Command-Trac, a part-time unit offering temporary 4-wheel asistance; Command-Trac was dropped from lineup in conjunction with the SE trim in 1996. But in November 2004, Ms. For 1993 alone, Jeep resurrected the Grand Wagoneer name for a special luxury version of the Grand Cherokee with the 5.2 L V8, this marked the last appearance for the Grand Wagoneer from the Jeep lineup. Everyone was certain that with the spirit of the company back in the house things would get well again. Other features separated the 5.9 from the standard Limited model, such as mesh grille insert, unique five-spoke alloy wheels, improved premium stereo, and softer leather trim. She designed two collections that were both shown in Milan, she altered Vukmirovic’s existing sketches for the men’s collection, she redesigned some of her boutiques and even sat down to go through the books herself. It housed a powerful 5.9 L V8 engine with an output of 245 hp and 345 foot-pounds of torque, going from zero to 60 mph in only 7.3 seconds, making it the quickest SUV available that year. She re-invented herself.

The 5.9 Limited was produced only for the 1998 model year, having more luxury than that of the regular Limited. Her designs, bearing the unmistakable Jil Sander signature with a more feminine look, were loved by customers and critics alike. TSi packages came equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, 225/70R16 tires, leather seats and premium sound system. Her sensational comeback was celebrated unanimously and with much fanfare by the international press. A sporty TSi model (1997-1998) briefly debuted, exterior features included single color body paneling, with a light blue striping accent. Supposedly, Bertelli had begged her to come back. Specialty models included the Orvis (1995-1997); a Grand Cherokee Limited package that featured a exterior color scheme of deep hunter green with red and gold strip accents (1995), 96-97 Orvis exteriors were of hunter green tone with basic gold striping; the interior was a two-tone green and champagne seats complimented with red accents and "Orvis" company badging. Sander, whose heart was probably bleeding when she looked at what Prada had made of her fashion house, returned to the company she had founded more than 30 years before as head designer and partner in May 2003, after her noncompete clause had expired.

Limited models that year and on had more luxury items such as driver placement memory, remote radio control from the steering wheel, and varible assist while driving and parking. To everyone’s surprise Ms. The AMC 4.0 L I6 engine was also refined, though receiving slightly less horsepower but gained more torque and presented quieter operation. It was said that with rapidly sinking sales the Prada Group had to go to great expenses just to keep the house of Jil Sander going. 1996 brought cosmetic changes ranging from improved body modeling (grille, bumpers), better wind aerodynamics, and intergrated foglights; Interior features added dual-airbags and increased farbic quality for seating. The company had been in the red since 2002. The Limited also boasts features such as leather seating, optional power sunroof, mirrors, seats, and remote keyless entry system; a basic onboard computer; and waffle-like cast aluminum wheels. Pressured by Prada to cater to a wider audience, Vukmirovic came up with commercially viable sportswear collections in 2002 and 2003 that drove away longstanding Jil Sander patrons and failed to attract new customers.

The Limited is the premium model, with the lower body paneling being the same color as the vehicle color. He unsuccessfully tried to follow in her footsteps. The Laredo is the mid-scale model, features included added body cladding, fancier seats, power windows, power door locks, and cruise control; exterior features display a medium grey plastic lower body paneling and five star spoke aluminum wheels. Sander’s successor by Bertelli. The Base model (also known as SE) offered basic features such as full instruments, cloth interior, and a five-speed manual transmission; The SE model was dropped in 1996 in favor of the Laredo. Milan Vukmirovic, a former Colette and Gucci designer, had been installed as Ms. The ZJ models, manufactured from 1993 to 1998, originally came in 3 general trims, the Base, Laredo, and the Limited. Sander was able to indulge in extensive travelling, sailing, going to the opera and taking care of her gardens after her resignation but the fashion house, not surprisingly, faltered without the designer who defined it.

Production of the Grand Cherokee started shortly afterward in the purpose-built Jefferson North Assembly in Detroit, Michigan and has remained there since. Thus, for the first time in many years, Ms. Then-Chrysler president Robert Lutz drove Detroit mayor, Coleman Young up the steps of Cobo Hall and through a plate glass window to show off the new vehicle. Bertelli insisted on giving-up the contributary workshops in Germany in favor of the shops in Italy owned by Prada. The Grand Cherokee debuted in grand fashion at the 1992 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. She, an uncompromising perfectionist, had baulked at using less luxurious materials and at bringing the traditionally slim fits in line with standard sizes, he had demanded drastic cost cuts and a more affordable mainstream approach. The first generation (ZJ) was the first Chrysler-badged Jeep product since AMC came up with the concept; the AMC engineers/designers behind the project, later Chrysler employees (after the 1987 buyout) were pushing for a late 1980s release date; however, then-CEO Lee Iacocca was pushing for redesigned Chrysler minivans, delaying the ZJ's release until late 1992. Sander unexpectedly left after confrontations with Prada CEO Patrizio Bertelli, a quick-tempered Italian businessman.

Based on the Jeep Concept 1 (1989), the Grand Cherokee's origins date back to 1983 when American Motors engineers were designing an XJ Cherokee successor. Six months later, in January 2000, Ms. The Grand Cherokee was a spinoff of the notably smaller Jeep Cherokee. Sander needed a financially strong partner, remained creative designer and became chairwoman in the new joint venture. . Ms. European Grand Cherokees are manufactured in Austria by Magna Steyr. In 1999 Prada Group bought a 75% share in her company.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV made by Jeep, a division of Daimler-Chrysler. Less and less people were willing or able to pay the label’s notoriously high prices: a simple white cotton T-shirt would sell for $150, and even enthusiastic Sander fans were beginning to long for some variety. Car and Driver (August 1998): 69–70.. Sander to concentrate more on the creative design rather than the business, resulted in decreasing sales. Jeep Grand Cherokee Preview. The economic crisis in Asia, a newly launched men’s collection that had been postponed several times before in 1997 and supposedly a desire with Ms. Phil Berg. From the mid-1990s on, however, things changed and later continued to go downhill.

2006–present – SRT-8. and four floors. 2006–present – Overland. At the Paris store, opened in 1993, the Jil Sander collections could be shown on more than 9000 sqf. 2005–present – Limited. Sander personally overlooked the design of her stores and strict guidelines were implemented for the sales staff on how to behave and where to stand in the boutique. 2005–present – Laredo. Ms.

2002–2004 — Overland. Her tremendous success overseas resulted in marvellous flagship stores in Tokyo and New York, among many others, whose interior furnishings gobbled up millions. 2002–2004 — Special Edition. She used the new capital to expand in Asia and North America. 2002–2003 — Sport. Her fashion house was among the first to venture on such a step. 1993 – Grand Wagoneer. Sander decided in 1989 to go public with her company.

1998 – 5.9 Limited. Ms. 1997–1998 – TSi. Sales were steadily increasing, new fragrances wered added to the cosmetics line, and the label's luxurious minimalism proved to be the hit of the late 1980's and early 1990's. 1995–1997 – Orvis "Limited Edition". Initially much to the regret of the German media, the decision was the right thing to do. 1993–1998 – Limited. In 1985, it was decided that her collections would be shown in Milan to more efficiently tackle the international markets.

1993–1998 – Laredo. Later, licenses would be given for eyewear and leather accessory lines. 1993–1996 – Base "SE". The internationally successful cooperation with Lancaster Cosmetics allowed her financially to run ads in glamorous magazines on a large scale for her fashion. In the years after 1978, she revolutionized the industry by marketing her first perfume with a campaign that prominently featured her own face. Sander was way ahead of her time.

With her luxurious simplicity and understatement Ms. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, when the fashion world was dominated by lavish, garishly colorful and glitzy Dynasty-style designs by the likes of Claude Montana and his broad-shouldered leather look, Jil Sander’s minimalist, sophisticated and strict collections with a focus on fabric quality came close to a revolution in the fashion world and were not accepted next to the, from today’s point of view, vulgar stylishness on the Parisian catwalks. Showing her collection in Paris in 1975 proved a complete failure, though. She has been described as the Queen of Less, Cashmere-Queen, Master of Minimalism, Cool Blonde, Gentle-Jil or Fashion Reductionist.

The prices for her clothes have always been horrendous. She created the so-called onion look (Zwiebel-Look) layering various pieces of clothing in one outfit. The fact that her creations were coordinates which could all be easily combined with each other became a popular characteristic. Her trademark look, a somewhat New Look for women conquering executive positions in the 1980s, was that of a perfectly cut pantsuit, a form-fitting simple but elegant coat or a slim blouse made of the most luxurious materials in plain grey, black, blue or white leaving out any unnecessary details, extravagant ornaments or loud colors.

And, with few ups and downs, she founded her eponymous fashion house, Jil Sander GmbH in 1968, at the age of 24. She started out selling fashion designed by Thierry Mugler or Sonia Rykiel and also a few of her own designs. Having spent two years as an exchange student at University College in Los Angeles, she worked as a fashion editor at German women's magazine Petra before opening her first boutique in a Hamburg suburb in 1967. Jil Sander, born Heidemarie Jiline Sander in Wesselburen near Hamburg, Germany, on 27 November 1943, grew up with her mother near Hamburg and later studied textile design in Krefeld from where she graduated as a textile engineer in 1963.

.
. Her work descends from that of Coco Chanel, as opposed to the bleeding-edge esthetic of Lagerfeld and Gaultier or the trendiness of sportswear design, as exemplified by the like of Giorgio Armani and Calvin Klein. Her minimalist trademarks include striking silhouettes, high-end fabrics, and meticulous detail, emphasizing quality over flash.

It is also the name of the fashion house she founded, Jil Sander AG. Jil Sander is a German fashion designer known for understated and sleek designs, luxurious fabrics and her perfume line.
. 2004 Jil Sander Sport (M).

2004 Jil Sander Sport (W). 2004 Jil Sander Man Pure (new edition). 2003 Jil Sander Woman Pure(new edition). 2002 Jil Sander Sun (M).

2000 Jil Sander Sensations (W). 1998 Jil Sander Sun Body Fragrance (W). 1997 Jil (W). 1989 Jil Sander Feeling Man.

1993 Jil Sander Background (M). 1991 Jil Sander Man 3. 4 (W). 1990 Jil Sander No.

1989 Jil Sander Sun (W). 1988 Jil Sander Man 2. 1985 Jil Sander Woman III. 1984 Jil Sander Color Pure (decorative cosmetics).

1983 Jil Sander Woman 2. 1982 Jil Sander Man. 1981 Jil Sander Bath and Beauty (W). 1981 Jil Sander Man Pure (discontinued).

1980 Jil Sander Woman Pure (discontinued). 1978 Jil Sander Woman. She lives with her longtime companion Dickie Mommsen. She is also said to have bought an apartment in Berlin-Willmersdorf and supposedly spends most of her freetime on her favorite leisure pursuit, gardening.

Sander currently resides at her estate in Hamburg where she also maintains a city office. Ms. For her notorious (and sometimes ridiculous) habit of mixing German and English words into gibberish sentences when being interviewed in German in the 1990s she was awarded the title of Sprachpanscher ( Sprache = language, panschen = to adulterate) by the Institute of German Language (Verein Deutsche Sprache) in 1997. She would rarely give interviews and not talk about her private life, a trait that only cultivated the myth about her person, and at the same time she would buy the rights to pictures about her in order to be able to control her public image and meticulously plan all the steps in her company where she was used to being the boss.

Sander was known for both her shy appearances in public and her power mania trying to bring everything under her control behind the scenes. Ms. Sander was awarded the Order of Merit by the Federal Republic of Germany for her achievements in the fashion industry. Ms.