What is it?
The Jeep Cherokee has come a long way since the first-generation Jeep SJ model was launched way back in 1974. The fifth-generation Cherokee we have here has lost the boxy, all-American image of that original, instead morphing into an SUV that carries very few features indeed to help distinguish it from its competitors in what is now one of the most crowded segments there is - seven-bar grille aside.
For 2018, Jeep has treated the Cherokee to a facelift. Gone is the squinty-eyed front end of the 2014 model; it has been replaced by a far more classically handsome (if a little forgettable) nose. At the same time, a range of new active safety systems and updated infotainment software have been introduced.
For the UK, the sole engine available is likely to be the same 2.2-litre four-cylinder Multijet II diesel from before, offered in a single 192bhp state of tune. This is paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox that, in our pre-production test car, sent its power to all four wheels.
As before, the Cherokee’s suspension architecture consists of MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear.
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Fail or fly?
All the 4x4 heritage appeal and authenticity in the world won't save Jeep if it continues to treat potential customers in Britain like idiots. A small SUV fitted with this awful fourpot motor most definitely ain't a premium product; offer it at sub-£30k and watch it fly off the shelves.
Whilst I accept that this is
Whilst I accept that this is inferior to premium SUV's from other manufacturers and where the reviewer states against the Q5 and X3 etc it is inferior and out of its depth but where it states but also badge desirability seems wrong to me, the Jeep badge is more desirable to me for a 4x4 as it has more heritage and as someone else has stated probably made the first 4x4, not the first awd car but the first 4x4 before we started calling them SUV's. Fca really need to pull their finger out and start producing cars worthy of the badge.
Need to re-name it their
Need to re-name it their 'Limited Sales' version. Maybe one of these days the US car-makers will give up on, or reduce the number of 'American Dream' models they make and get one of their European subsidaries to provide them with a complete car manufacturing plant?