Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 Systems Explained

The first available 4x4 system for the Grand Cherokee lineup is Quadra-Trac I. This is a full-time 4x4 system, meaning that it is always running in four-wheel drive. This is done by using a single-speed transfer case to send 52% of torque to the rear axle and 48% to the front axle. While having four-wheel drive helps traction during inclement weather, Jeep takes it even further with a Brake Lock Differential. The Brake Lock differential controls wheel speed side to side on a driven axle to prevent the tires from spinning when traction is limited. 

The next 4x4 system available for the Grand Cherokee is Quadra-Trac II. While Quadra-Trac I uses a single-speed transfer case, Quadra-Trac II, as you might have guessed, uses a two-speed transfer case. The Quadra-Trac I transfer case operates in four-high all the time. However, Quadra-Trac II offers 4-high and 4-low modes. Using 4-low allows drivers to achieve better traction at low speeds. Additionally, Quadra-Trac II uses input from a network of sensors to determine a loss of traction at the earliest possible moment and counteract the slip by redistributing up to 100% of available engine torque to the axle with the most traction. 

Quadra-Drive II somewhat blends both of the Quadra-Trac systems. It uses a two-speed transfer case to offer a 4-low mode while also providing full-time 4WD traction. It can also send power front to back and side to side to maintain the best possible traction at all times. Quadra-Drive II, however, is the most capable Grand Cherokee 4x4 system, as it adds an electronic limited-slip rear differential. This system monitors wheel spin to detect a loss of traction and redistributes engine torque to counteract the slip. Additionally, the electronic limited-slip rear differential sends up to 100% of power to a single rear wheel with the most traction to counteract slippage and regain traction.

All Jeep Grand Cherokee’s that are equipped with 4x4 is also equipped with Selec-Terrain Traction Management System. This allows drivers to control the vehicle's systems by selecting from Auto, Sand/Mud, Sport, and Snow modes. Meanwhile, Rock mode comes exclusively with Quadra-Drive II. Auto mode leaves the 4x4 system in control, sensing road conditions and automatically making the necessary adjustments to the traction control and torque distribution to maintain traction across changing road conditions. Meanwhile, Sand/Mud mode makes adjustments to the torque split to better handle muddy trails or loose gravel. Sport mode utilizes higher transmission shift points to maximize power output for an exciting on-road driving experience. Snow mode makes adjustments to the torque split and power output to reduce wheel spin to remain in control on snow-covered roads. Rock mode automatically puts the Quadra-Drive II system in 4-low and lowers the transmission’s shift points to provide better traction while crawling over rugged terrain at low speeds.

Among the many things that there is to love about the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the 4x4 systems are at the top of the list! If you’re interested in getting a Jeep Grand Cherokee in the Atlanta area, then Akins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram should be your only stop! Here, you can find a selection of new Grand Cherokees in stock and ready for you to take home, including the Grand Cherokee Limited, three-row Grand Cherokee L, and plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe! Browse our wide selection of Jeep Grand Cherokee models right here on our website, or visit our sales team in-store to take a test drive. We hope to see you soon!