2000 Jeep Cherokee: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Fancier duds for the top-line Limited model marks the big Cherokee change for 2000. SE and Sport models come as 2- and 4-door wagons, Classic and Limited are 4-door only. The Limited gets promoted from an option package to a separate model.
SEs have a standard 4-cylinder engine with manual transmission or optional 3-speed automatic. Optional for SEs and standard on other Cherokees is an inline 6-cylinder engine with revisions designed to make it quieter and reduce exhaust emissions. Its standard manual transmission gets modifications aimed at smoother shifts. A 4-speed automatic is optional with the six. Cherokee offers rear-wheel drive and two 4WD systems: part-time Command-Trac and full-time Selec-Trac. Selec-Trac does not require that 4WD be disengaged on dry pavement and is available only on 6-cylinder models, as are antilock brakes.
Limited's new look includes a chrome grille and headlight surrounds, bright silver alloy wheels, and a chrome rear license-plate brow. New standard features on all models include headlights Jeep says are brighter and longer-lasting, a cassette player, and rear child-seat anchors. Classic also gets a new 16-inch cast wheel design.

COMPETITION

This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buys include the Ford Explorer, the Lexus RX 300, and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. Explorer and M-Class are more traditional SUVs with full off-road capability and V6 and V8 engines. RX 300 is a car-based SUV that lacks a low range in 4WD mode, but is the most carlike to drive.
Our Recommended choices are all traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the slightly more expensive Explorer clone Mercury Mountaineer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined but expensive Toyota 4Runner.
If you are on a Budget take a look at the old standby Jeep Cherokee. It is cruder than the rest but offers go-anywhere ability, utility, and a low price.