2001 Jeep Cherokee: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Oldest, least-expensive Jeep. The current design dates from 1984. It continues through model year '01 as a "budget" model alongside its intended replacement, the Liberty, which features more rounded styling and is due this summer. For '01, Cherokee loses its 4-cyl engine, base SE, and uplevel Classic models. Continuing are 2- and 4-dr Sport, 4-dr Limited. Both have 190-hp inline 6-cyl with manual or automatic transmission. Available with rear-wheel drive, Jeep's Command-Trac 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement, or Jeep's Selec-Trac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement; 4x4s include low-range gearing. ABS is optional.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buy Honda CR-V doesn't offer true off-road ability and has milquetoast acceleration, it does mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.

New this year are the Ford Escape and clone Mazda Tribute. We have been very impressed with early production models and may elevate these two to Best Buys after we get more seat time.