a 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission.

It builds from there to the 5.2-liter V8 Limited and Orvis models. Along

the way, the Grand Cherokee offers more drivetrain variations than any

other sport-utility on the market. While no manual transmission is available,

there are two drive systems available for either the six or the V8.

Once you opt for four-wheel drive, you must then choose among the systems.

These include Selec-Trac, with a fixed torque split between front and rear,

and Quadra-Trac, which normally puts all the torque to the rear axle but

can automatically vary torque fore and aft at any proportion between zero

and 100%, assuring that the power always goes to the tires that have the

traction.

And, for those who want the power and the space without the complexity

of a heavy 4WD system, in 1997 the basic 2WD model is available for the

first time with the 5.2-liter V8 engine option.

The Grand Cherokee Limited comes with a large load of standard equipment--as

well it should for a starting price of $31,885--including air conditioning,

power steering, power brakes, power mirrors, power locks, 10-way power

seats with power recline and lumbar systems, tinted glass, a remote locking/security

system, leather trim, tilt steering, cruise control, aluminum wheels, premium

AM/FM/cassette audio, fog lamps, a roof rack, and a pair of consoles, one

overhead, one between the front seats.

The Limited package ($1290) adds heated seats, a power sunroof, and

an upgraded sound system with three-band graphic equalizer. Our tester

also had the trailer towing group ($242), the Up Country suspension ($390)--which

raises the ride one full inch and comes with tow hooks, skid plates, stiffer

springs and shocks, P225/70R-16 tires and a conventional spare. The optional

5.2-liter V8 engine was an additional $877 (though you can get a Limited

with a six-cylinder engine), and the traction-lock rear differential added

$285.