The 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee had only minor improvements, including the upgraded radio and carpeting, extended rear seat heat duct, modified tilt steering column, improved ABS system, full-body anti-chip paint treatment, and eight new colors to choose from. For the first time, it is offering the 5.2-liter V8 engine as an option for the 2WD. It is offering a V8 engine that generates 220 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.

 

This engine does a good job across intersections, snowy grades and highway. It is also available in 4.0-liter in-line 6, with 185 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque, pulling 13 mpg on city and 17 mpg on highway, while 15 mpg on city and 20 mpg on highway for the in-line 6. Other features included are the Selc-Trac, Quadra-Trac, air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, power mirrors, power sunroof, power locks, 10-way power seats with power recline and lumbar systems, tinted glass, remote locking and security system, leather trim, tilt steering, cruise control, aluminum wheels, premium AM/FM/cassette audio, fog lamps, roof rack, and a pair of consoles for the Limited.