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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  Well lets see..... - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By danny000 - October 30 - 2:00 am

  Ive had the Jeep Grand Cherokee for about 3 years. I havent had any REAL BIG problems yet. One major thing to keep in mind: it makes a humming sound in the rear. I heard its a common problem with the JGCs. The cab is extremely noisy, especially in the back seat. The 4WD also takes about a 1/4 mile to pop back into 2WD. Taking corners on the 4WD is also a chore. Overall, I like the Jeep and would consider buying another, just beware of the hum, it will drive you NUTS!!

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  Jeep Cherokee Country - 1996 Jeep Cherokee
  By dknorpp - October 13 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has been awsome. I have had no problems. Plenty of power. It has 78k miles and still going strong. I replaced the AC unit about 3 years ago, but other than that I have only done normal maintence to it. I hope my next vehicle is just as good.

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  If they still made these, I would BUY 1 - 1995 Jeep Cherokee
  By cringle - October 1 - 1:53 pm

  It is with great sadness that I have finally, after over a decade and some 185k miles, come to realize that my Country has finally reached the point of economic infeasibility. Bought gently used in 98 (only 28k mi in 3 yrs, car was spotless throughout, thank you 1st owner). Car was very reliable over the first 10 years of ownership. It is only now that it is beginning to fall apart. Engine, Tranny still original and still doing just fine, which is huge. Id say the cooling system was the only component that was less reliable than youd want. Everything else exceeded expectations.

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  Very Happy With My Jeep! - 1995 Jeep Cherokee
  By Jonathan - September 18 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this used 1995 Cherokee Sport with 100,000 miles on it two years ago and now have 150,000 on it. I have not had to put any money into this vehicle other than oil changes. I bought the vehicle for its 4WD capabilites to traverse mountain roads, some paved and some unpaved for my line of work. I have nothing to say but good things, this truck has the High Output 6 Cyl. and has plenty of power to get me wherever I need to go and fast. I have owned many new vehicles over the years and this has become my all time favorite. Way to go Jeep!

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  Low Maintnance and durable - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By Matt - September 12 - 12:53 pm

  Purchase my jeep used with 70k miles in 2004. It now has 122k miles and drives and runs no different than the day I bought it. Only maintenance I have done is change oil, change transmission fluid(once), replace rear shocks (once), and a brake job (once). Jeep has plenty of power and will easily do 100mph. It is durable and handles great in the snow. It can go offroad anywhere 98% of people would need / want to go. I wish it were a little quieter on the road and go better gas mileage (but you cant avoid the fact that it is a box on wheels and about as non-aerodynamical as a car could be).

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  Why Jeeps should be MORE expensive - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By Jeeps rock - July 31 - 2:00 am

  The Jeep Cherokee Sport 1998 edition. This Well crafted vehicle should be priced at a more extravagent price i bought my Jeep in 2001 at 19,000 now i cant even get 11,000 for it (not that i am selling)

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  Takes a licking and keeps on ticking - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By dave#1 - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Had her for 2 years. Picked it up used with 27K. Have only had 1 major repair bill for major 4WD repairs, something about induction. The car has pick-up on the highway (up to 85/90 mph). Took it up to Vermont all winter to hit the mountains, I only had trouble on ice/snow once or twice during a white out. I love it. Reliable to the bone.

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  Build the Old Way.... Bring It Back !!!! - 1996 Jeep Cherokee
  By anibal - June 27 - 10:00 am

  My uncle bought the car with cero miles on it in 1995 and was his car until recently when he sell it to me. I always wanted a old sport/utility. The original Isuzu Trooper was my other choice but MAN THIS WAGON IS FAST! You look at her and you cant imagine that a big powerfull engine is under there. The size is great (although a little cramped inside) and the looks are timeless. More than a few have asked me if I sell it and the awnser is NO. My only complain is with the ride quality, wich is awfull... somethimes irritating. I think Chrysler could have keep bulding the basic model, just like Chevy its building the Astro. When this one dies Im buying another

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  1998 Jeep Cherokee - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By jeeper - June 24 - 9:56 am

  Only repairs have been replacement of drivers window motor and window/door lock switch. Replaced tires and battery as a precaution since both were 7 years old.

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  Nothing else ever will compare - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By IMChad - June 23 - 4:10 pm

  I love this jeep. Im on my 4th year of owning it and cant say enough. Ive put around 80,000 miles on it and at 150,000 it still runs like brand new. During the winter, we had 24" of snow and it was below zero and it was nice being the only one in the neighborhood who didnt have to shovel the drive. When the plows came and buried the drives, I just climbed over it. Fuel mileage really does stink on this one though. I drive like an old lady mostly and I get 13 city and 17 highway/interstate. But, my wife gets 30 in her car and i still pay more a year keeping hers on the road. Ive not changed anything but a wheel hub, tires, UV joint and battery. Not bad for 4 years of heavy driving.