Jeep Cherokee (08-10) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 12 February 2009
This Jeep Cherokee goes back to the familiar squared-off and rugged styling that first made the model popular in the UK in the 1990s. However inside it's far more upmarket than before and comes very well equipped too with luxuries such as heated leather seats as standard. But that's not to say the Cherokee has gone soft - true to Jeep's heritage it is near unstoppable off road and comes with a sophisticated four-wheel drive system. It's not bad on tarmac either, but doesn't feel as sharp as many road-biased 4x4 rivals such as the Ford Kuga and Honda CR-V. The line-up is simple with just a single trim level and one engine choice, a strong CRD diesel.
3.5 out of 5

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3.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£25,330 - £26,340

Used price range:

£10,608 - £17,470

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Excellent off-road ability, strong performance, generous equipment, rugged charm

Thirsty for a modern diesel, slow automatic gearbox, vague steering

This Jeep Cherokee goes back to the familiar squared-off and rugged styling that first made the model popular in the UK in the 1990s. However inside it's far more upmarket than before and comes very well equipped too with luxuries such as heated leather seats as standard. But that's not to say the Cherokee has gone soft - true to Jeep's heritage it is near unstoppable off road and comes with a sophisticated four-wheel drive system. It's not bad on tarmac either, but doesn't feel as sharp as many road-biased 4x4 rivals such as the Ford Kuga and Honda CR-V. The line-up is simple with just a single trim level and one engine choice, a strong CRD diesel.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    3.5 out of 5

    "The Cherokee is powered by an upgraded version of the 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine from the previous..."

  • Handling

    3.5 out of 5

    "Compared to the previous Cherokee, the new model is much improved, both on and off road. There's..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    4 out of 5

    "On twisting roads, the lack of body control means quick progress isn't pleasant for those in the..."

  • Practicality

    4 out of 5

    "There's a useful cargo area with lashing points on the side panels to help secure items along with a..."

  • Equipment

    4.5 out of 5

    "There's only one trim level (Limited) in the Cherokee range and it's generously kitted out. Standard..."

  • Behind the wheel

    3.5 out of 5

    "More expensive feeling materials and a subtle two-tone colour scheme help the interior seem more..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    2.5 out of 5

    "The Cherokee has a price tag of around £25,000, which isn't cheap, but it is well equipped for the..."

  • Green credentials

    1.5 out of 5

    "Although only a diesel version of the Cherokee is available in the UK, it isn't a particularly green..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    4 out of 5

    "The previous Cherokee scored a reasonable four stars out of five for occupant protection in official..."

  • Reliability

    3.5 out of 5

    "Most of the mechanical and electronic parts are well proven and Jeep has a good reputation for..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    3 out of 5

    "It's probably worth haggling although the Cherokee does offer reasonable value. Perhaps if you..."

  • Buying used

    4 out of 5

    "4x4s are still popular despite a backlash in certain quarters, and the Cherokee can be used as a..."

  • Selling

    4 out of 5

    "This Cherokee strikes a good balance between workhorse and family car so should satisfy both..."

Gallery

  • Interior Jeep Cherokee (08-10)
  • Exterior Jeep Cherokee (08-10)
  • Exterior Jeep Cherokee (08-10)
  • Exterior Jeep Cherokee (08-10)

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