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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  1999 Jeep Cherokee Classic - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By mjt1727 - August 21 - 10:53 am

  The 1999 Jeep Cherokee Classic is a very utilitarian vehicle. It is a bit loud on the road, does not have the best gas mileage, and the six cylinder engine is adequate. That being said, there have been absolutely no major issues and the vehicle just keeps running.

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  Perfect size - 2016 Jeep Cherokee
  By Tamie Gangl - August 13 - 2:46 pm

  I test drove many cars and then I test drove the Jeep Cherokee. It handles the road nicely, and I did not hear the road noise that I heard while driving the Nissan Rouge.

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  Loved mine! - 1997 Jeep Cherokee
  By spencer Millsap - August 5 - 3:43 pm

  I bought my jeep back in 2002 with 90k miles ALREADY on it! I just got rid of it at 205k miles to get a new Jeep Patriot 4x4. Awesome transition. I loved my Jeep, super dependable, great 4x4 performance, perfect cargo space, etc. Had to deal with water pumps, radiators, catalytic converters, and all other wear and tear of the car, but it lasted me 205k miles and it is STILL running strong. Go get one with low miles if you can find one

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  Too bad its extinct! - 1996 Jeep Cherokee
  By Maddog - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I dont understand the decision to put this vehicle out to pasture. For the price and versatility, this has, by far, been the best vehicle Ive owned. At 6 1/2 years old with 102,000 miles, mine is still going strong. All Ive had to do is keep up with the basic maintenance. The worst mechanical problem Ive had is the water pump went bad at around 100,000 miles. The model that took its place will never match up to this awesome vehicle. Ill drive this til the wheels and engine fall off and then Ill replace them and keep on going. This will probably end up being the vehicle my kids inherit when they get their drivers licenses. I agree with the other review - BRING IT BACK!

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  98 Cherokee - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By DTF - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought one used because I needed a bigger car..my credit sucked so I got robbed on financing but the car has proven to be extremely reliable except for completely new sets of brakes ..twice...As an on call EMT/FF I do a lot of emergency driving so that might explain the brakes..rattling noise on acceleration..researched and talked to mechanic no loss of power has to do with lifters..dealer was fair but only if you came prepared and knew your prices and ranges...Would NOT buy vehicle from this dealer again

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  Jeep Cherokee - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By jaydub - July 26 - 2:00 am

  Very good performance. Interior comfort is questionable with a tall driver. The jeep is also very sensitive to what type of fuel is used. Off road performance is average at best when compared to other domestic 4x4s. Off road performance is poor when compared to import suvs.

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  LOVE IT! - 1995 Jeep Cherokee
  By Angie - July 11 - 1:36 pm

  Got this car for a great price-$1600. Interior was pretty bad but put on seat covers and not too bad now. Replaced water pump, needs new tires, replaced very minor items such as light bulb for gear shift, and new lighter (gotta have dvd player hooked up for the kids on long trips:), rear windshield wiper -- all easy to fix. Took it in for an oil change and guy was very impressed with how good everything looked -- does not leak oil at all!

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  Jeep - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By samwerd - July 6 - 2:00 am

  Fun car. It was in mint condition when I bought it. It still is. Been off roading few times.

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  Love it - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By mb - June 28 - 8:33 pm

  I bought the 2001 Jeep Cherokee Sport because we needed to replace a 2nd car and it was a good deal. The plan was for me to drive it to work and back 5 miles one way. I LOVE IT!! Couldnt be happier! Fun to drive, very reliable, just right! Well keep the Jeep forever.

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  Nothing Can Replace It! - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By Binski - June 22 - 3:53 am

  I have had my Jeep since my junior year of high school. It got me to and from college countless times, three moves, and even an annual 1,000 mile round trip vacation. This car has never broken down and I have never needed roadside assistance in the 8 years I have owned it. However, AC finked out at 90,000 and many minor repairs were also made, adding up quite a bit. But I cant complain, this car is the epitome of reliable- snow storms, white outs, blinding rain? No problem, always has got me through! The design has no bells and whistles, mine doesnt even have cruise control, but thatss what makes this car fun! Its a truck and meant to be simple.