Jeep Cherokee (2014-2019) Review

Written by David Ross

- 2014
- Crossover
- Petrol, Diesel
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Quick overview
Pros
- Well equipped as standard
- Very capable off-road
- Reasonably comfortable
Cons
- Refinement could be better
- Not great to drive
- Sluggish engines in early models
Overall verdict on the Jeep Cherokee
"As an alternative to SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson, the Jeep Cherokee has a few things going for it. Not least a strong image and a genuine off-road capability. Like all Jeep models, the Cherokee can cover proper tough terrain. This is no weekend soft-roader. Of course whether owners really want that is another matter. Ultimately, there are lots of other crossovers that do it better..."

Jeep had high hopes for the Cherokee when it arrived in 2014. It marked the beginning of a reinvigoration for the brand now owned by Fiat. The previous year saw a much improved Grand Cherokee launched and, following that, Jeep unveiled a new smaller SUV, the Renegade.
For this Cherokee, Jeep moved things more upmarket. It realised it could not merely trade on its rugged and outdoorsy image as it once did, so it's no surprise to see big improvements from previous Jeep models in terms of quality and design. The Cherokee is certainly distinctive, especially from the front with that odd nose but some things continue like the traditional Jeep grille, albeit with a new take on the old design.
It's not the most handsome of SUVs but it certainly stands out. It's a shame therefore that the interior isn't as daring. Inside it's bland and full of drab plastics.
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What’s the best Jeep Cherokee model/engine to choose?
What other cars are similar to the Jeep Cherokee?
Comfort and design: Jeep Cherokee interior
"The Cherokee’s cabin is a fairly traditional and conservative design but on the plus side it gets all the basics right."

The interior is comfortable enough, with lots of head and leg room in the front and back, but the dashboard design and layout feel bland and nondescript. The chunky plastics and large dials also feel mundane, while the large button on the automatic gear shifter has a tendency to painfully trap the edge of fingers in the switch mechanism.
The controls are all intuitive and well located while the Uconnect system which was first seen on the Grand Cherokee is an excellent media system which is simple to use and has a lovely crisp display. Other manufacturers could learn a lot here.
Quality and finish
Space and practicality: Jeep Cherokee boot space
Handling and ride quality: What is the Jeep Cherokee like to drive?
"Jeep handling has traditionally been of the soft and soggy variety but the Cherokee is impressive for an SUV with good body control and responsive steering, albeit with an artificial feel."

Sadly, the Cherokee is not a rewarding SUV to drive, with its soft ride providing comfort over rough surfaces, but pitching heavily in the corners.
The steering is also something of a conundrum, with inconsistent weighting that makes it difficult to judge how much turn is required to navigate corners or exit tight junctions. As a result the Cherokee is a car that requires constant correction at all speeds, while its high levels of road and engine noise add to its general disquiet.
What engines and gearboxes are available in the xx?
Refinement and noise levels
MPG and fuel costs: How much does it cost to run a Jeep Cherokee?
"The Jeep's diesel engine means it's cheap to run with decent economy, although there are no hybrid or PHEV versions in the range."

Officially, the Cherokee is pretty good on fuel with an official average of 48.7mpg for the 170PS 2.0-litre diesel. The two-wheel drive 140PS is the most frugal with a claimed 53.3mpg and CO2 of 139g/km.
The later 2.2-litre Multijet 185PS returns a claimed 49.5mpg and 150g/km of CO2. Even the 200PS is pretty frugal with an official 49.6mpg and 150g/km. Although remember, these are old NEDC figures so you'll struggle to get close to them in real world driving.
How much should you be paying for a used Jeep Cherokee?
"The Cherokee was never a huge seller for Jeep in the UK, so you won't find a glut on the used market."

Used prices start at about £8000 for early models but if you want to pick and choose, you'll be looking at closer to £10,000. The 2.2 Multijet diesel is a far better engine and worth seeking out.
Trim levels and standard equipment
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