Chrysler Corporation (now DaimlerChrysler) has done an admirable job of keeping a basically solid design fresh enough for today's tougher market. Most models that date back to 1984, as the Cherokee does, would have faded away long before. Cherokee's 4-cylinder engine provides only adequate acceleration with the 5-speed manual transmission, and is overmatched with automatic in anything other than gentle cruising. Of course, most Cherokees on the market are 6-cylinder. That engine is strong throughout the speed range, and delivers fuel economy typical of a midsize SUV: about 15 mpg with automatic and 17 mpg with manual shift. Cherokee suffers powertrain and road resonances that are absent in most competitive sport-utility vehicles. Wind noise at speed is prominent, too. Good balance and tidy dimensions make the Cherokee quite maneuverable in most situations. The firm base suspension provides a solid ride that absorbs all but the worst bumps, without jarring. An "Up Country" option, if installed, makes for a rough ride. Optional antilock braking feels strong and natural. A Cherokee really shows its age in interior accommodations. Less roomy than a Grand Cherokee or a Ford Explorer, it does carry four adults in comfort. However, the low-roof passenger compartment has no surplus of front shoulder room, a shortage of rear knee clearance, and fairly lofty step-in. Rear entry/exit is tight, too, thanks to narrow lower doorways. On the plus side, the dashboard is modern and convenient. Outward vision is good, though larger door mirrors would help when lane changing. Mounting the spare tire inside eats up cargo room, but there's still decent space with the rear seat in use, and a long load floor with that seat folded. An outside spare was available at Jeep dealerships, so look for one of that kind if cargo space is a major concern. Some Cherokees we tested when new had occasional interior rattles, as well as wider-than-usual panel gaps around the hood and tailgate.

Value for the Money
Convenient 4-wheel-drive systems, commendable off-road capability, and civilized on road manners--for less than a Grand Cherokee or an Explorer--make the Cherokee an above average value. Despite an aging design and strong competition, Cherokees sold well in the late '90s and are not too expensive today unless you go for a fully equipped model. Still, Cherokee is behind the times in room, ride, and refinement.