Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep Cherokee

As an alternative to mainstream sport utility vehicles (SUV) and the more compact crossover offerings, the Jeep brand has an added advantage, and that is genuine off-road capability. On road the Jeep Cherokee is a comfortable cruiser but like all Jeep models, it can also cope with properly rough terrain.

The Exterior

The latest model Cherokee has a fresh, modern appearance, distinguished by that true Jeep iconic style. The exterior design features a revised front end with the familiar grille, standard full LED headlamps, daylight running lamps and fog lamps surrounded by bright trim details. The bonnet (hood) is of lightweight aluminium structure and is separate from the front wings.

The rear profile has been modified over previous versions, creating a more harmonic flow (Jeep’s words) to the rear of the vehicle. The model's tail lamps remain an integral part of the rear backlight graphic, which includes a thin homogenous LED light strip that wraps around the individual stop and turn tail lamps. A lightweight composite tailgate includes an integrated light bar with release handle repositioned higher for added ease of opening.

Optionally, on new orders, buyers can select the ‘CommandView’ dual-pane power sunroof, which extends from the windscreen to the rear of the vehicle. The standard Jeep Cherokee line-up offers five wheel options including a 19” premium polished aluminium wheel on the flagship Overland model.

The Interior

The latest Cherokee offers clever storage features and the latest in technology. Expect high-quality materials throughout with real attention to detail. Highlights include the stylish Piano Black and Satin Chrome finish on infotainment control, the climate control vents and gear shifter bezels. The electric park brake button has also been enclosed around the centre shifter bezel for ease of operation. Integrated shifter controls are fitted on the steering wheel on all models equipped with the nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive power-trains, which are model dependent.

Range topping variants get a 7” configurable colour display that shows turn-by-turn navigation, speed, real-time fuel economy, safety warnings, Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus, audio information and Jeep-specific features, such as the 4x4 Selec-Terrain system.

On all models the front passenger seat can be folded flat to accommodative very long or awkwardly shaped items and underneath there’s a storage area to conceal small items or valuables. There’s plenty of space in the back with generous knee and headroom. The rear seats are split 60:40 and can be moved forwards and backwards to free up extra boot space, which has a luggage capacity of 570 litres.

Driving The Jeep Cherokee

The seats are very comfortable, with cloth or leather upholstery and ride quality is largely good. Despite its off-road capabilities the Cherokee is very much at home on the motorway, with very little engine noise at cruising speeds. Like many larger 4x4s, there’s a little wind noise although it’s certainly not enough to become annoying.

There’s only one engine option now, for the Limited and Overland trim levels. It’s a 2.2 litre MultiJet 195bhp turbo-diesel engine featuring Stop/Start technology that offers incredible flexibility and all-round performance when paired with the nine-speed automatic transmission. There’s plenty of torque available and there’s optional low-range on all-wheel-drive models. Older models offer a variety of diesel or petrol power-plants with either full- or part-time four-wheel drive.

The Jeep Cherokee gets the maximum five-star rating by the independent safety body Euro NCAP, from whom it also earned a ‘Best in Class’ title. Standard equipment includes seven airbags, Electronic Stability Control and Anti-lock Braking System with a special calibration for off-road use. There’s plenty of safety technology on board.

Are They Reliable?

Yes; this is a rugged vehicle that delivers on and off road. It’s comfortable, practical and not too big making it an ideal small family car. Buyers of the Jeep Cherokee or Jeep Wrangler wishing to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand or elsewhere should contact us here at MHH International to enquire about stock.