Overall Rating |  |
Cherokee has a clean-cut, muscular all-American image, lots of heritage and real off-road ability. But the styling doesn't please everyone, it's thirstier than most rivals, and it's only a so-so drive.
For
- Roomier, better to drive and more comfortable than before
- Good off-road ability; a convincing tow car
- Generous equipment for the money
Against
- Tonka toy looks don't please everyone
- 2.5 and 2.8 TD engines lack refinement
- 3.7 V6 is thirsty with standard auto 'box
Road Test
This Cherokee is the latest in a long line of go-anywhere Jeep estate cars. It's spacious, tough but civilised, and reasonable value, but sport-utility rivals such as Freelander, CR-V and RAV-4 all leave it behind when it comes to driving pleasure.
All Cherokee engines, even the smallest 2.5 CRD turbodiesel, put out over 140bhp; the greedy 3.7 V8 (20mpg if you're lucky) has well over 200bhp on tap. They hold their own in the performance arena, although the gear-change on manual cars isn't the slickest in the business. Steering and handling are adequate on-road, although not as enjoyably agile or car-like as CR-V or RAV-4. Off-road capability is excellent, but only a small minority of Cherokee owners will venture there.
As a family hold-all, Cherokee has a comfortable five-seater cabin, a two-piece tailgate with a handy opening rear window, and generous equipment. Reliability is good; running costs are average.
Need To Know
JD Power stars: 2
NCAP: 4
Worst Models: 3.7 V6 Limited
Replacement: 2008
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling Comfort Quality & Reliability Performance  Roominess Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav  |
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