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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  Jeep the only way to Drive - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By Shadowwolf - January 29 - 1:10 am

  Well except for the dealership I bought the jeep from it has been a wonderful experience and I am not starting the slow process of building it up for really radical off-roading fun. This thing is truly the sports car of SUVs. I can take corners almost as well as a lot of the modern muscle cars and with a rolling start (30mph-40mph) I can keep up with some of the big boys until I hit 95 or so then I back off :) PLEASE REMEMBER This is a SUV and as such it has a HIGHER Center of gravity

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  cannot complain - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By dajeep - January 7 - 2:00 am

  .When I purchased my jeep, it had 7 miles. I now have 267,000 actual miles. This Cherokee has never needed any engine or transmission work. However, I have had to replace the following: rotors 60k, radiator/ water pump 230k(I did not flush it enough), front washer motor 150k, power steering pump 170k, alternator 180k, ignition/steering column problems 265k. Also, expect to have to replace the rubber mat that protects the underside of the engine. I think anyone would agree these numbers are impressive. I am very pleased that I chose a cherokee, it has been relatively inexpensive to maintain.

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  Rotors, Rotors, Rotors - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By Rich F. - December 3 - 10:00 am

  I purchase my Jeep Cherokee Sport 4WD new back in July of 2001. I did enjoy driving it and it was my first Cherokee after owning 4 Grand Cherokees. I switched to the Cherokee after having numerous problems with the Grand Cherokees. In the end, the one problem that still persisted with the Cherokee was that the rotors warped approximately every 12,000-15,000 when they were just out of warranty. I have heard that the newer Jeep have a better brake design but I was not willing to try another one at this time. I just purchased a new 2004 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and I am much more impressed with the build quality when compared to the Jeeps.

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  If you hadnt stopped making it....... - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By b81651 - November 30 - 2:00 am

  I leased my vehicle new in Jan, 2000. As like many others, its been in for (2) sets of front rotors and brakes. For those of you that keep loosing coolant "Guess what - its the cracked head!! that the dealers failed to notice all (6) times that I brought it back!" Its been a joy to own otherwise and wish they hadnt discontinued it for that hideous Liberty. Maybe if you bring it back with all of the improvements that you put on the Grand Cherokee, I just might buy another one!!

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  Apparently no option for a V6 Trailhawk review... - 2014 Jeep Cherokee
  By bodhizuffa - November 25 - 2:38 pm

  So this is what I have. I love it so far but only have about 500 miles on it. Like I said, I love it, it drives great, love the uConnect system. Keep that in mind as I will only list my gripes so far here. The A Pillar is very big, so gauging traffic to the left and turning and/or pulling into traffic takes some getting used to. The throttle is really sensitive. Takes some time to get used to it. Also, the steering is very boosted at slow speeds; more weighted otherwise. I prefer a direct and consistent response, but thats my preference. I also wish the tilt/telescoping steering was a little more adjustable. It doesnt go low enough for me. But a great vehicle so far.

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  I love my Jeep! - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By Cz173 - November 14 - 10:00 am

  I think that a jeep cheokee is a great car. I like how is 4wd and the nice body style. Only setback is the gas, it guzzels it. But i do love my Jeep!

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  Best choice for a second vehicle or fun toy. - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By stimp - November 11 - 1:22 pm

  I have had company vehicles for a long time and in 2011 lost my job and wheels due to this recession. I needed to buy a vehicle. I needed the price low enough i could pay cash. it needed to be reliable and not prone to engine or trans work. I have been a jeep fan for a while. owned two grand cherokee with no major problems. Anyway so I decided on the old school cherokee because I love its looks. its known for rock solid inline 6 cylinder 4.0L and solid transmission. any smaller problems i will fix myself with the help of the many cherokee fan forums. trust me these guys know everything and are very willing to lend a hand. this is the best bargain out there.

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  4 wheeling - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By Ironman - November 9 - 3:30 am

  I bought mine with 64,000 miles on it. It now has 112,000 and is still going strong. Overall dependability has been very good, just regular maintenance. Yes, its loud, mileage is pretty bad & the back seat could be more comfortable, but its also very practical. Love it ! And, it never feels like its going to tip over, like other SUVs. I dont have any modifications made - all stock. I never thought I could have this much fun in an SUV !

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  Rugged - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By EMTSquad51 - October 23 - 9:40 pm

  I always wanted a Jeep Cherokee growing up, finally got one and Ive been loving it ever since! With two kids and a wife, this is a very comfortable ride on the 450 mile round trip to the in laws house we take about 4-5 times a year. Goes excellent in the snow and mud. At 100,250 miles, still going strong and havent had any problems.

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  2001 Jeep - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By Ryan Wells - October 21 - 10:00 am

  This is a good vehicle. I wish it was a little more quiet. Also, it is rough, running and idleing. Power and handeling is wonderful.