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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  The Little Beast - 1996 Jeep Cherokee
  By Bryan - November 16 - 11:16 am

  This Jeep has been the most reliable auto I could imagine. I had to replace the water pump a couple times, the radiator, and have the intake cleaned once. Other than that, we are talking regular maintenance, and 219,000 miles later she still roars to life every morning. I have driven her on the beach, in the snow, out of holes (my fault), and every time, the Jeep has been up to the task. I say all of this and remind the reader that the Jeep 15 years ago is not the Jeep today. I think simplicity, quality mechanics and minimal electronics is the way to have an auto you can keep for many years.

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  2000 Cherokee Sport in VA - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By markp - November 14 - 10:00 am

  This is a great suv. With so many others coming out. The Jeep is the only choice for me. As an owner I know that I can get in and out of ski areas, camp sites, beach and anywhere else for that matter with no problem. I know that no matter what my JEEP is there and will deliver. Just as they were when they came out. I will always have a JEEP.

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  There is nothing like a Jeep - 1997 Jeep Cherokee
  By mtbiker82 - November 14 - 10:00 am

  First, I am seeing a lot of reviews that are using gas mileage as a negative. I get 17mpg in the city and 21+ on the highway and thats with the 4.0L straight 6. Its a SUV...thats great!! Unstoppable off-road. Backseat slightly uncomfortable, but just fine for short trips. If want to drive a legend...get a Jeep.

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  Off road Jeep that can handle the city - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By Jeepin - November 10 - 6:00 am

  Ok to start off this is my second Jeep Cherokee as I hydolocked my last one, oops. I had to buy the Cherokee again as I am very impressed with its ability to handle difficult off-road situations without mechanical failure, a very reasuring feeling. The 6-cyl has the power on the road and on the trail. 4x4 is great in deep snow, sand and steep trail riding. I wish they would put the Cherokee back in production. I modified my Jeep to include a snorkel for deep water protection and performance, pretty sweet mod. Added Grill guard, wrench, skid plates, lift kit, serious roof rack. Solar power to keep battery tip-top, Hella Fog lights, air compressor, in dash GPS, laptop mount I love my Jeep!

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  All 4 corners of the US and back again - 1996 Jeep Cherokee
  By knowonder - November 6 - 6:56 am

  We went from San Diego to the midwest back to San Diego to Alaska and over 500+ miles of continuous gravel road. Then Alaska to Boston to Illinois to the Keys. Plenty of 4WD times. All with our 18 sea kayaks on the roof. I just saw a post that somebody is closing in on 900,000 miles on theirs. I wanted 300,000 but now just set my new goal. Theres something like home in that square box. Drives great and very reliable. Heading to the west coast from Indiana soon. Replaced radiator, water pump. Only other problem weve had is with the AC. We didnt know that for a solid couple years. Were windows people.

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  Does nothing extremely well, or poorly - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By emurray - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Lots of engine noise. Goodyear rubber wore out fast. Have Michelin X Terrain SUV tires, now. Small armrests. Rear door entry is tight for adults. No rear seat headrests!!! Lousy spare and in bad location. Readily accepts tow hitch, fog lamps, after-market sound system. Latest design is much cleaner than late 80s, early 90s. Great little 4WD utility vehicle.

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  Sour Lemony Snickets - 2016 Jeep Cherokee
  By Bree Floozy - November 3 - 8:06 pm

  2016 Defective brakes off the lot. Replaced all major components. Dealer was unable to get it right. Took them 12 days. Brakes on these cars are unresponsive and too firm, making it difficult to react quickly in an emergency situation. I dont get why they are designed like this. saftey tech blind spot, rear assist are great. Acceleration is very good, appearance and interior build style/quality very good. Navigation is quite basic for $600! Post-purchase all I hear about are reliability issues. So maybe I shouldve researched this car a lot more before buying. I doubt Ill let this car ever get out of warranty.

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  Buy one before they are history - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By XJforever - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Owned for one year. Bought with 19,000 miles - just crossed 30,000. Absolutely the best vehicle I have ever owned. Solid as a rock, great off-road and in the snow. Only issues are the lack of a left foot rest (during long drives this can be a problem) and gas mileage in stop and go traffic. But it is the last of the best that Jeep has ever made. Ending production of the XJ will lose loyal customers as Daimler-Chrysler migrates toward independent front suspensions across the board. I fully expect that this vehicle will last me for over 200,000 miles. Many XJ owners will attest to the ease with which this happens if you just change the oil and do the maintenance.

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  Tops in my book - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By bjpoock - October 30 - 2:00 am

  The Jeep Cherokee is easily one of the best vehicles ever built.

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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!!