1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ Photos, engines & full specs

Jeep was already part of Chrysler when the American automaker decided to continue the story of the Grand Wagooner but in a different way.

The introduction of the 1993 Grand Cherokee at the North American International Motor show in 1992 was one of the most spectacular unveilings in automotive history. Then, Bob Lutz, who was the big kahuna at Chrysler at that time, entered the Cobo Hall through a window driving a red Grand Cherokee. Yet, the model was not entirely a new concept.

Jeep entered the luxury SUV segment by introducing this new lineup. It had the proper badge and expertise to create one of the best SUVs on the market. Larry Shinoda penned the car when in 1987. He made a rugged yet appealing styling for the SUV. The car featured a classic, seven-slat Jeep grille flanked by two rectangular headlights. On the sides, the Grand Cherokee ZJ (as it was known) featured plastic panels that protected the bodywork against scratches.

Inside, the automaker installed a classic interior with two bucket seats at the front and a folding bench seat at the back. However, despite the car's size, it wasn't as spacious as it seemed. In addition, the driver was separated from the side passenger by a wide and tall center console. In the instrument cluster, the green illumination of the dials was appreciated by those who drove the car for longer distances, especially at night.

Under the hood, the Grand Cherokee was introduced with the same inline-six 4.0-liter offered for the Jeep Cherokee. Then, in 1993, the big SUV received a 5.2-liter V8. Later, in 1998, the automaker added a particular version fitted with a 5.9-liter Magnum V8 powerplant.