We say The Jeep Cherokee is a solid off-roader with a distinctive, typically ‘Jeep’ exterior with its large circular headlamps at the front. Unfortunately it shows its age when its compared with its competitors, particularly on the road and with its engines.Performance The headline-grabbing engine in the cherokee’s line-up is the 3.7-litre V6 petrol. The 208bhp unit is the biggest in the range by a distance and the quickest, too, clearing 60mph in 10.5 seconds and generating 230lb-ft of torque.Emissions If you want a low-emission SUV then the Cherokee isn’t the right car for you. It’s particularly thirsty and has a limited diesel range, which typically drives down CO2 emissions and improves fuel economy. The best engine in terms of emissions and fuel economy is the 161bhp 2.8-litre CRD diesel unit. It returns 30mpg and emits 246g/km which is the best in range but poor generally. It is the best engine for the Cherokee.Driving The Cherokee can become unsettled on UK roads and the steering is extremely vague and leaves you guessing as to how much lock to put on. Around corners it’s ok but there’s still a lot of bodyroll. Off-road it’s good and solid and a decent alternative to some of the more mainstream off-roaders.Feel The ride stays smooth as long as the road surface does, as soon as the road surface becomes uneven the ride becomes jittery and it’s easily unsettled.Space The Cherokee is comfortable and there’s a massive 821-litre boot at the rear. Rear seats split and fold but not flat to the car’s floor.Equipment Aircon, electric windows and CD player as standard with alloys, cruise control and more on higher trim levels. Sunroof optional.Price Pricing for the Jeep Cherokee starts from almost £18,000 and rises to a nudge under £24,000. That means it’s not cheap but it’s not too expensive either. Running costs will be poor, however.Quality Should be fairly durable and the engines will be sound. Functional inside rather than attractive but it is solidly put together.Safety ABS, stability control and two front airbags as standard, but no traction control as standard.Pros The Cherokee is good off-road and is incredibly durable. There are some strong pulling engines too.Cons The Cherokee isn’t cheap to buy and running costs will be high. There are much better alternatives on the market.Alternatives Land Rover Freelander, Toyota RAV4
