Not all Jeep Grand Cherokees are 4WD, as many models came standard with rear-wheel drive. The question “are all jeep grand cherokees 4wd” is a common one, and the answer might surprise you. While the Jeep brand is famous for off-road capability, the Grand Cherokee has offered different drivetrain options over the years.
This article breaks down exactly which models have 4WD and which don’t. You’ll learn about the different systems and how to tell them apart.
Are All Jeep Grand Cherokees 4Wd
No, not all Jeep Grand Cherokees are 4WD. In fact, many models, especially from the 1990s and early 2000s, came standard with rear-wheel drive. The 4WD system was often an optional upgrade.
Understanding this helps you avoid buying the wrong vehicle. If you need true off-road capability, you must check the drivetrain carefully.
Rear-Wheel Drive Vs Four-Wheel Drive
Rear-wheel drive means power goes only to the back wheels. This is fine for paved roads and light snow. But it lacks the traction for mud, sand, or steep trails.
Four-wheel drive sends power to all four wheels. This gives you better grip in slippery or uneven conditions. Jeep offers several 4WD systems, each with different strengths.
Why Jeep Offered Rear-Wheel Drive
Jeep wanted to appeal to more buyers. Many people use SUVs only on highways. Rear-wheel drive is cheaper to build and lighter on fuel.
This strategy helped the Grand Cherokee compete with other SUVs like the Ford Explorer. But it also confused shoppers who assumed all Jeeps have 4WD.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Generations And Drivetrain Options
Each generation of the Grand Cherokee had different standard and optional drivetrains. Let’s look at each one.
First Generation (ZJ, 1993-1998)
The first Grand Cherokee offered two drivetrain choices. Rear-wheel drive was standard on the base Laredo and Limited trims.
- Standard: Rear-wheel drive
- Optional: Command-Trac part-time 4WD
- Optional: Quadra-Trac full-time 4WD
Command-Trac is a part-time system. You must shift into 4WD manually. Quadra-Trac is full-time, meaning it engages automatically when needed.
Second Generation (WJ, 1999-2004)
This generation continued with rear-wheel drive as standard. The 4WD systems improved with more electronic controls.
- Standard: Rear-wheel drive
- Optional: Quadra-Trac I (full-time)
- Optional: Quadra-Trac II (full-time with low range)
- Optional: Quadra-Drive (full-time with locking differentials)
Quadra-Drive was the top system. It offered excellent off-road capability with front and rear locking differentials.
Third Generation (WK, 2005-2010)
Jeep made rear-wheel drive standard again. But they added more advanced 4WD options.
- Standard: Rear-wheel drive
- Optional: Quadra-Trac I
- Optional: Quadra-Trac II
- Optional: Quadra-Drive II
Quadra-Drive II added an electronic limited-slip differential. This improved traction on slippery surfaces.
Fourth Generation (WK2, 2011-2021)
This generation saw a shift. Rear-wheel drive remained standard on base models. But higher trims often came with 4WD as standard.
- Standard: Rear-wheel drive on Laredo and Limited
- Standard: 4WD on Overland, Summit, and Trailhawk
- Optional: Quadra-Trac I
- Optional: Quadra-Trac II
- Optional: Quadra-Drive II
The Trailhawk trim always came with Quadra-Drive II. It also had off-road features like skid plates and all-terrain tires.
Fifth Generation (WL, 2022-Present)
The current generation offers both rear-wheel drive and 4WD. But the options are simpler.
- Standard: Rear-wheel drive on Laredo and Limited
- Standard: 4WD on Overland, Summit, and Trailhawk
- Optional: Quadra-Trac II
- Optional: Quadra-Drive II
Jeep now offers a 4xe plug-in hybrid model. It comes with a unique 4WD system called eQuadra-Trac.
How To Tell If A Jeep Grand Cherokee Has 4WD
You can check several things to see if a Grand Cherokee has 4WD. Here are the easiest methods.
Check The Badges
Look for badges on the tailgate or fenders. Common 4WD badges include:
- Quadra-Trac
- Quadra-Drive
- 4×4
- Trailhawk
If you see no badge, it might be rear-wheel drive. But some models have no badge at all.
Look At The Interior Controls
Check the center console or dashboard for a 4WD selector. This might be a lever, knob, or buttons.
- Part-time 4WD: A lever with 2H, 4H, and 4L positions
- Full-time 4WD: A knob with Auto, 4H, and 4L positions
- Quadra-Drive: A knob with Auto, 4H, 4L, and locking differential buttons
If there is no selector, the vehicle is likely rear-wheel drive.
Check The Vehicle Identification Number
The VIN can tell you the drivetrain. Look at the 8th character of the VIN. This is the engine code, but it can indicate 4WD.
You can also use online VIN decoders. They will show the original factory options.
Look Under The Vehicle
If you can safely look under the car, check for a front differential. A 4WD vehicle has a differential on the front axle. Rear-wheel drive models do not.
Also look for a transfer case behind the transmission. This is a metal box that sends power to the front wheels.
Common 4WD Systems In The Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep used several 4WD systems over the years. Each has different capabilities.
Command-Trac
This is a part-time system. You must shift into 4WD manually. It is best for off-road use only.
- Found in: First generation ZJ
- Type: Part-time
- Low range: Yes
- On-road use: Not recommended in 4WD
Quadra-Trac I
This is a full-time system. It automatically sends power to the front wheels when needed. No driver input is required.
- Found in: Second, third, and fourth generations
- Type: Full-time
- Low range: No
- On-road use: Yes, all the time
Quadra-Trac II
This is a full-time system with a low range. It offers better off-road capability than Quadra-Trac I.
- Found in: Second, third, fourth, and fifth generations
- Type: Full-time
- Low range: Yes
- On-road use: Yes, all the time
Quadra-Drive
This is the most capable system. It includes Quadra-Trac II plus front and rear locking differentials.
- Found in: Second and third generations
- Type: Full-time
- Low range: Yes
- Locking differentials: Front and rear
Quadra-Drive II
This is an improved version of Quadra-Drive. It uses an electronic limited-slip differential instead of a mechanical one.
- Found in: Third, fourth, and fifth generations
- Type: Full-time
- Low range: Yes
- Locking differentials: Rear only (front is limited-slip)
EQuadra-Trac
This system is used in the 4xe plug-in hybrid. It uses an electric motor to drive the rear wheels.
- Found in: Fifth generation 4xe
- Type: Full-time
- Low range: Yes
- Electric rear drive: Yes
Which Jeep Grand Cherokee Trims Have 4WD Standard
Some trims always come with 4WD. Others have it as an option. Here is a breakdown by generation.
First Generation (ZJ, 1993-1998)
- Base: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Laredo: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Limited: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Orvis: 4WD standard
Second Generation (WJ, 1999-2004)
- Laredo: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Limited: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Overland: 4WD standard
- Special editions: Often 4WD
Third Generation (WK, 2005-2010)
- Laredo: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Limited: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Overland: 4WD standard
- SRT8: 4WD standard
Fourth Generation (WK2, 2011-2021)
- Laredo: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Limited: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Overland: 4WD standard
- Summit: 4WD standard
- Trailhawk: 4WD standard
- SRT8: 4WD standard
- Trackhawk: 4WD standard
Fifth Generation (WL, 2022-Present)
- Laredo: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Limited: Rear-wheel drive standard
- Overland: 4WD standard
- Summit: 4WD standard
- Trailhawk: 4WD standard
- 4xe: 4WD standard
Does 4WD Affect Fuel Economy
Yes, 4WD systems add weight and mechanical drag. This reduces fuel economy compared to rear-wheel drive.
Typical differences are 1-3 miles per gallon. The exact amount depends on the system and driving conditions.
If you drive mostly on pavement, rear-wheel drive is more fuel-efficient. But if you need traction, the trade-off is worth it.
Can You Add 4WD To A Rear-Wheel Drive Grand Cherokee
Technically, yes, but it is not practical. You would need to add a transfer case, front differential, and axles.
The cost is very high. It is almost always cheaper to buy a Grand Cherokee that already has 4WD.
Some aftermarket companies offer conversion kits. But they are rare and expensive. Stick with a factory 4WD model.
Common Misconceptions About Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD
Many people think all Jeeps have 4WD. This is not true. Here are other common myths.
Myth: All Grand Cherokees Have 4WD
As we have seen, many models are rear-wheel drive. Always check the drivetrain before buying.
Myth: 4WD Is The Same As All-Wheel Drive
They are different. 4WD is designed for off-road use. All-wheel drive is for on-road traction. Jeep uses 4WD, not AWD.
Myth: Quadra-Trac I Is The Same As Quadra-Trac II
No. Quadra-Trac I has no low range. Quadra-Trac II has a low range for serious off-roading.
Myth: Rear-Wheel Drive Grand Cherokees Are Unreliable
They are just as reliable as 4WD models. The drivetrain is simpler, which can mean fewer repairs.
How To Choose The Right Drivetrain For Your Needs
Your choice depends on how you use the vehicle. Here are some guidelines.
For City And Highway Driving
Rear-wheel drive is fine. It offers good fuel economy and lower cost. You will not miss 4WD on paved roads.
For Light Snow And Rain
Rear-wheel drive with good tires works well. But Quadra-Trac I or II gives extra confidence.
For Off-Road Trails
You need Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive. These systems have low range and better traction.
For Towing
4WD can help with towing on slippery surfaces. But rear-wheel drive is fine for dry pavement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are All Jeep Grand Cherokees 4WD?
No, many models are rear-wheel drive. Only certain trims and optional packages include 4WD.
How Can I Tell If My Grand Cherokee Has 4WD?
Check for a 4WD selector inside, look for badges, or inspect the front axle for a differential.
Is Quadra-Trac The Same As 4WD?
Quadra-Trac is a type of 4WD system. It is full-time, meaning it engages automatically.
Do All Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawks Have 4WD?
Yes, all Trailhawk trims come standard with Quadra-Drive II 4WD.
Can I Drive A Rear-wheel Drive Grand Cherokee In Snow?
Yes, with good winter tires. But 4WD offers better traction in deep snow.
Final Thoughts On Jeep Grand Cherokee Drivetrains
Now you know the answer to “are all jeep grand cherokees 4wd.” They are not. Many are rear-wheel drive.
Always verify the drivetrain before buying. Check the badges, controls, and VIN. This ensures you get the capability you need.
If you want off-road performance, look for Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive. For daily driving, rear-wheel drive is perfectly fine.
Jeep makes a great SUV, but not all of them are built for the trail. Know what you are buying and enjoy the ride.