Overview & Reviews

When the original Jeep Cherokee debuted back in 1984, its compact dimensions, unibody (as opposed to heavier body-on-frame) architecture and go-anywhere capability made it an immediate success. But the SUV scene changed dramatically over the course of its nearly 20-year production run. By the early 2000s, car-based "crossovers" like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 had usurped the antiquated Cherokee's throne. With the arrival of the modernized Jeep Liberty for the 2002 model year, the Cherokee was put out to pasture, its time seemingly having come and gone.

The Liberty never really caught on with consumers, however, whereas the trusty Cherokee's reputation continued to resonate. Accordingly, Jeep resurrected the iconic Cherokee nameplate for the Liberty's successor. Today's Cherokee is a true crossover that shares its platform with the front-wheel-drive Dodge Dart sedan, departing from the rear-wheel-drive tradition established by the original Cherokee and upheld by the Liberty. Its aerodynamic shape, feature-rich interior and carlike driving dynamics speak soothingly to today's pavement-biased shoppers. But rest assured, it's still a Jeep -- so if you do want to hit up some trails, three available four-wheel-drive systems plus numerous off-road-ready options ensure you won't get left in the dust.

Current Jeep Cherokee
The current Cherokee is offered in Sport, Latitude, Trailhawk and Limited trim levels. The Sport is pretty spartan, but it provides convenience features like power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a six-speaker touchscreen stereo with USB/Bluetooth connectivity. The better-equipped Latitude entices with its alloy wheels, foglights, LED interior lighting and options like dual sunroofs, nine-speaker audio and the excellent 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen interface. The Trailhawk focuses on heavy-duty hardware, including standard 4WD with the locking rear differential, flared fenders, wider wheels and tires, skid plates, tow hooks and an off-road suspension with a 1-inch lift. The fancy Limited lacks those rough-and-ready items but boasts bigger alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and other luxury-oriented provisions. A panoramic sunroof replaces the dual sunroofs on the options list for both the Trailhawk and Limited.

In the engine room, the Cherokee is powered by either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder (184 horsepower) or a 3.2-liter V6 (271 hp). The transmission for both is a nine-speed automatic. Front-wheel-drive is standard, but Jeep offers three four-wheel-drive systems: an introductory setup with a single-speed power transfer unit (referred to by most automakers as "all-wheel drive"), a two-speed unit with low-range gearing, and an upgraded two-speed system with a locking rear differential that's exclusive to the Trailhawk.

In reviews, we've found the Cherokee's four-cylinder engine underwhelming in terms of both power and refinement, but the V6 is a nice upgrade considering its smooth, satisfying acceleration. We're pleasantly surprised that Jeep offers it, as V6s have largely disappeared from this segment in favor of more fuel-efficient fours. As noted, the Cherokee's V6 isn't much less efficient than the base four, so it's pretty much a win-win. We're not convinced that the transmission really needs all nine speeds, but it goes about its business unobtrusively for the most part.

From the driver seat, the Cherokee isn't as sporty as the Ford Escape or Mazda CX-5, but it handles well enough, and its cushy, quiet ride makes commuting a breeze. Off-roaders intrigued by the Cherokee's refinement will be pleased to learn that there's some real bushwhacking potential here, particularly in the "Trail Rated" Trailhawk, which also looks considerably meaner from the curb. What's not found in the Cherokee is an abundance of cargo space -- it brings up the rear among comparable crossovers -- but on the bright side, the sliding-and-reclining backseat is thoroughly adult-friendly.

Used Jeep Cherokee Models
The current, second-generation Jeep Cherokee debuted for the 2014 model year.

The first-generation Jeep Cherokee was unveiled for the 1984 model year as an austere, tough-as-nails SUV, with only its then-radical unibody construction separating it from true truck status. Two- and four-door versions were available. Built on a short wheelbase and tipping the scales at approximately 3,100 pounds, the Cherokee was nimble and responsive compared to the Chevy Blazers and Ford Broncos of its day. On the other hand, getting in and out could be tricky due to the high step-up and small doors, and the rear seat was quite cramped.

The original Cherokee evolved with mostly minor changes over the years, highlighted by the arrival of a fuel-injected four-cylinder engine for 1986 and the popular 4.0-liter inline-6 engine for 1987. A refreshed Cherokee was introduced for 1997 with slightly smoother exterior styling, some structural tweaks for improved refinement and a new dashboard (including dual airbags), but its utilitarian, no-nonsense character remained fully intact.

In our road test of a '97 Cherokee, we found the Jeep unequalled off-road, yet still respectable on the blacktop in terms of acceleration and handling. We liked the firm, sporty ride, although some may find it too stiff and trucklike. At this point, finding a clean and well-maintained first-generation Cherokee is going to be tricky, but modifying the vehicle for enhanced off-road use is very popular.

For more information on the original Jeep Cherokee, go to our Jeep Cherokee History page.

User Reviews:

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  Its been a pleasure owning my Jeep - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By babsj - January 26 - 10:00 am

  No major problems. Maneuverable, consistent, dependable, sporty with comfort. I still smile when I drive it! A reliable classic design stands the test of time and serves me well.

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  Wish they still made these. - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By DT-Jeep - January 18 - 10:00 am

  Best vehicle I ever drove. Fun, powerful yet small. My trip computer says Ive averaged 19.2 mpg including pulling a camper and daily driving.

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  I got a "Wednesday car" - 1995 Jeep Cherokee
  By Mary Kohrs - January 14 - 4:06 pm

  Except for my 77 Camaro which lasted 15 years and over 100,000 miles, this is the best vehicle Ive ever owned. What doesnt hurt is that my son is a master mechanic. He predicts it will last 250,000 miles. In 14 years Ive only replaced a water cooler, an AC compressor, and an oil seal, and am on my 11-year old Bridgestone tires (another son). Had vent windows installed, which I consider a necessity. Except for a few parking lot scratches, it is in mint condition inside and out. Has factory radio with cassette player.

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  Excellent buy - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By Sanju - January 3 - 10:00 am

  I am glad I got this jeep. Its a 4D,2W drive, just needed it for regular use in city. After 4 years, Still Gives 22 m/g on highways. Very confortable to drive. Haven`t spent a $ for repairs yet, except regular oil change & maintenance. Drive one to have fun, a classic.

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  Tough and Reliable SUV - 1996 Jeep Cherokee
  By cc - December 22 - 5:30 am

  It has been a very reliable vehicle, and still runs great at 219,000 miles. I used to drive it daily until it was hit from behind. Now I use it mainly for hauling and plan to let kids drive it eventually. I would not hesitate to buy another Cherokee. They are a great value for the money.

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  Jeep Cherokee - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By Waysco - September 21 - 3:23 pm

  This vehicle has been everything we could have imagined and more, and she still has a lot to offer. One of the best 4x4s we have ever owned. It would go through snow and ice like it was dry roadway. The Best.

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  Great Car - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By tinad - August 31 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy driving my Jeep. It accelerates smoothly and feels like a car on the open highway. The handling and performance is very good and the Classic style is very nice.

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  go any where you need to or want - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By stew - August 27 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is ready right of the show room floor, and with just a few hundred dollers you can go any where you want no matter where it is. it is small enough to get threw the woods and big enough to go threw the deep water.

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  "Jack-of-all-trades" yet master of many - 1997 Jeep Cherokee
  By Mr. Sam - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Cherokee for almost two years now and I still love it. Only problems Ive had have been the O2 senser and a R134a leak (which is still not solved). No major problems (knock on wood). Bullet proof off-road capiblity. One of the fastest SUVs out there. Buy one and join the family!

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  What a Jeep! - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By mozbeach - July 5 - 9:26 pm

  Bought this Jeep, my first Cherokee, used in 2000. Traded in my 93 Wrangler for it. Thought I would hate it without the rag top, but this car is great. Carries my kids and all my toys. Runs great in all weather/conditions. I now have 170,000 miles (68,000 when bought) and am just starting to replace original equipment. Only negatives are the gas mileage and my instrument gauges periodically fail. No mechanic has been able to find the cause. Despite that I will never buy another SUV other than a Jeep.