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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  Good small SUV that offers 6 cylinder - 2017 Jeep Cherokee
  By Olivia - May 12 - 8:27 pm

  I Love my 2017 Jeep Cherokee EXCEPT when you reverse and put back in drive the car stalls and then accelerates quickly which can be scary when reversing out of a parking spot. I also noticed that its acceleration is very strange...if you are going 30 mph and want to accelerate it takes you down to 20 mph before accelerating.. makes you feel like the car is going to just stop before acceleration. Other then that the car is great but i honestly feel like that is a huge negative when the main purpose of me choosing this car was for the speed of the 6cyl engine.

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  Good small SUV that offers 6 cylinder - 2017 Jeep Cherokee
  By Olivia - May 12 - 8:19 pm

  I Love my 2017 Jeep Cherokee EXCEPT when you reverse and put back in drive the car stalls and then accelerates quickly which can be scary when reversing out of a parking spot. I also noticed that its acceleration is very strange...if you are going 30 mph and want to accelerate it takes you down to 20 mph before accelerating.. makes you feel like the car is going to just stop before acceleration. Other then that the car is great but i honestly feel like that is a huge negative when the main purpose of me choosing this car was for the speed of the 6cyl engine.

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  Rock solid and built to last - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By RickE-berg - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Solid axles. Lots of ground clearance. Leading link front suspension. Low range locking transfer case. A true SUV with the emphasis on the "U". If you need to get to point B from A, any time, any weather, any conditions, and bring some cargo or passengers with you, theres no better vehicle on the planet. Sure, its not as quiet or smooth as the cutesy Jap offerings. But head for the hills, ruts, rocks, snow, etc., and see who gets there first (if they make it at all!)

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  Truly Remarkable - 1996 Jeep Cherokee
  By Banker - April 30 - 3:46 pm

  Purchased vehicle in 98, used, from private seller who didnt even know it had 4 wheel drive. Used for everything from daily work commute to locating trail heads of mountain bike trails. Capability is superb and so compromises ride quality. Mechanically very sound, only replacing AC electronic switch ($20). Not looking forward to being able to purchase another when the time comes.

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  BUY A JEEP!!!! - 1995 Jeep Cherokee
  By mr jeep - April 11 - 10:00 am

  I purchase my jeep 2 years ago. After almost 50,000 miles and several cross country trips... Im hooked on Jeep Cherokees. I recommend this Jeep to anyone wanting an SUV that is reliable, fun to drive and extremely powerful. This is the best vehicle Ive ever owned... after 6 cars. The only problem Ive had was a crack in the exhaust manifold - total= $450 -- thats it! (probably from front end collision @ 30mph) no other problems.

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  Good Jeep! - 1997 Jeep Cherokee
  By Antoine - April 2 - 7:20 pm

  My Jeep was given to me for my 17th birthday present, I like it a whole lot, accept for the low gas mileage, and the rough ride. My o2 sensors went out and I needed a new caddy converter. One more thing is my seats are beginning to squeak a lot but other than those its a fun car!

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  VW bug to a jeep - 2014 Jeep Cherokee
  By sk_jo11 - March 26 - 4:57 am

  Most amazing car!!! I cannot convey to you how amazing this car is. It is perfect for everything. I use it driving to work and get 28-30 to the gallon on mixed roads with hills. 24-26 In town. And up to 36 on the highway but usually 32 on a trip. Millions of features and you can customize your dash. Tons of room. most comfortable seats since my 1991 chrysler new yorker. I am telling you this is SO worth it. The remote start and heated seats in cold weather is the best. Heated cloth seats was the best invention ever!!! Yes brand new so there will be problems. Not only brand new car but brand new model. My fog light sticks on, but dealer will fix it. I love this car it is the best investment.

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  BRING IT BACK PLEASE! BEST JEEP EVER!!!! - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By aquaman - March 21 - 12:56 pm

  I recently have bought my 4x4 Jeep Cherokee classic with 110,000 miles and it is the best thing I have ever bought in my entire life I love it! No doubt if they came out with one I would buy it in a heart beat! :) runs great have had no problems with it. Completely reliable with the inline 6 engine! I cant decide if I want to put bigger wheels on it or not because I love the body style so much as it is! Jeep needs to bring it back! Worst move ever by discontinuing it!

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  One Of The Best - 1996 Jeep Cherokee
  By Boston - March 21 - 2:56 am

  I really cant say enough about my 1996 Cherokee Sport. It has been an amazing vehicle, and Ive had my share. No doubt about it, this is a JEEP, not a luxury car - and it looks and feels that way... rugged and utilitarian. However, they are great for a varity of scenarios, including the urban jungle. If I had to pick a bad spot, Id have to say gas mileage and comfort on longer trips. This classic model is a bit aged these days, but theyre a wonderful value for the price.

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  Blue tooth Connection/Windshiled availability - 2015 Jeep Cherokee
  By Pat Mullen - March 6 - 3:44 pm

  Bought this Jeep a month ago and I like many things about it... but two problems. First I took a rock in the windshield and glass companies and dealers do not have access to glass... all on backorder. Still driving with broken windshield and not likely to have new glass for weeks. Second, the blue tooth connection works fine with my Galaxy 5 phone for making and receiving calls but can not playback voice mail messages. Messages can not be heard on phone or on speakers... I have to stop the car and turn it off to listen to voice mail messages on my phone.