Likes:
- Rakish looks are a bold design statement
- Generous standard specification
- Off-road ability remains excellent
- A much improved on-road driving experience
Car Buyers Guide
Jeep Cherokee 2.2 Multijet Auto Limited
May 2016
Gripes:
- Cabin quality still falls short in some areas
- European rivals offer a more established choice of SUVs
- Some minor switchgear can be fiddly to operate
- Brand holds less gravitas this side of the Atlantic
The Jeep brand is synonymous with off-road performance but in recent years it is the more conventional SUV that has become one of the most popular new car choices. Hence the Cherokee is the most important car in the line up. Following a new model refresh in 2014 a new 2.2-litre diesel has been added.
Jeep models have always had a distinctive look, and this Cherokee is no different. However, where the firm's trademark grille has been the dominant feature, this time around it has been incorporated into an overall more dramatic front end.
In fact the whole car is a more dramatic than before, with its angular sheet metal and fuss-free detailing presenting a bold appearance that couldn't be further from the rounded looks of previous models if it tried. The upshot is a 4x4 with kerb appeal to match the very best from Europe's premium SUV makers.
It's a bold looking and pleasing to drive mid-size SUV, now offered with a new 2.2-litre diesel engine designed to offer greater refinement and better performance. Specifically answering a criticism of earlier iterations, the new unit has increased power and torque as well as reduced engine emissions and improved economy.
Crucially, Jeep has made important strides in terms of cabin quality, with this Cherokee coming close to challenging the best models from Europe. While equipment levels are generous, it's the greater attention to detail regarding trim and materials selection that should impress potential buyers the most.
Jeep models have always had a distinctive look, and this Cherokee is no different. However, where the firm's trademark grille has been the dominant feature, this time around it has been incorporated into an overall more dramatic front end.
In fact the whole car is a more dramatic than before, with its angular sheet metal and fuss-free detailing presenting a bold appearance that couldn't be further from the rounded looks of previous models if it tried. The upshot is a 4x4 with kerb appeal to match the very best from Europe's premium SUV makers.
It's a bold looking and pleasing to drive mid-size SUV, now offered with a new 2.2-litre diesel engine designed to offer greater refinement and better performance. Specifically answering a criticism of earlier iterations, the new unit has increased power and torque as well as reduced engine emissions and improved economy.
Crucially, Jeep has made important strides in terms of cabin quality, with this Cherokee coming close to challenging the best models from Europe. While equipment levels are generous, it's the greater attention to detail regarding trim and materials selection that should impress potential buyers the most.