The 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the iconic three-row SUV, blending refined on-road dynamics with capable off-road performance. This specific model year offered buyers a sophisticated blend of luxury, durability, and versatility that helped define the modern mid-size luxury SUV segment. Under the hood, a range of powerplants catered to different needs, from the torquing 4.0-liter inline-six to the high-performance 5.9-liter V8, ensuring the Grand Cherokee could handle anything the road or trail threw its way.
Engine and Performance Specifications
Powering the 2000 Grand Cherokee was a selection of robust engines designed for both everyday driving and adventurous excursions. The standard and most popular option was the 4.0-liter PowerTech Inline Six-Cylinder (I6), producing 190 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided a perfect balance of efficiency, smoothness, and towing capability, making it the ideal choice for most buyers. For those needing more power, the 4.7-liter PowerTech V8 became available later in the model year, generating 235 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The top-tier performance came from the 5.9-liter Magnum V8, a legendary engine that delivered an impressive 245 horsepower and a commanding 330 lb-ft of torque, propelling the Grand Cherokee to confident highway passing speeds and making light work of towing boats or heavy trailers.
Drivetrain and Transmission Options
Matching the engines was a choice of transmissions and drivetrains that defined the Grand Cherokee's capabilities. The four-speed automatic transmission was the standard and only transmission option, providing smooth shifts and reliable power delivery. This transmission was mated to the Selec-Trac full-time four-wheel-drive system, which offered traction and stability in various conditions. For models equipped with the 4.0-liter and 4.7-liter engines, a part-time Command-Trac transfer case was available, allowing drivers to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes for improved fuel economy. The 5.9-liter models, however, were exclusively paired with the Selec-Trac system, ensuring maximum grip and control for serious off-road adventures or challenging weather conditions.
Dimensions and Capacity
In terms of physical presence, the 2000 Grand Cherokee commanded the road with a substantial footprint that contributed to its stable and planted feel. The vehicle measured approximately 186.3 inches in length, 73.7 inches in width, and 68.8 inches in height, giving it a commanding road presence. With a wheelbase of 113.3 inches, the Grand Cherokee offered a planted ride quality while still maintaining the ability to navigate tighter urban environments. The cargo area behind the third row was surprisingly usable, and folding down the second and third rows revealed a massive cargo space capable of swallowing large items during road trips or hauling equipment for weekend projects.
Length: ~186.3 inches
Width: ~73.7 inches
Height: ~68.8 inches
Wheelbase: 113.3 inches
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Fuel efficiency was a consideration for the 2000 Grand Cherokee, though it was secondary to capability and comfort. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provided estimated mileage for the various powertrain configurations. The base 4.0-liter I6 model with the four-speed automatic and Select-Trac 4WD was rated for approximately 15 miles per gallon in the city and 20 miles per gallon on the highway. The more powerful 4.7-liter V8 saw slightly lower estimates, around 14 city and 19 highway. Owners of the top-tier 5.9-liter V8 would see similar numbers to the 4.7L, reflecting the performance-oriented nature of the engine.
