Jeep Cherokee 2004 Review

The Cherokee has a bit of a name to live up to, having been crowned 4x4 of the Year 2005 by Britain's 4x4 magazine recently.

The Cherokee underwent a week of trials by 4x4 experts, notching up high marks for performance, off and on-road ride quality, and interior and exterior appearance.

With the Grand Cherokee named World's Best Off- roader 2005 by 4x4 magazine, the 3.7-litre V6 Cherokee automatic took out the mid-size category, scoring 39 points out of a possible 50.

Land Rover's Range Rover came in second with 38, and Toyota's LandCruiser third with 37.

While Aussie conditions are another thing, the petrol-driven 3.7L V6 automatic version proved itself a capable allrounder during our test over some 800km.

• The 12-valve SOHC Power Tech engine produces 150 kW of power and 307 Nm of torque which, when mated with a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and lockup torque converter, provides plenty of grunt in all situations.
• Style wise, the Cherokee wears its proud heritage in its front end treatment, where a six vertical bar grille and recessed round headlights give it an unmistakable look. That's got to be a nice thing in a world of cookie cutter vehicle production.
• The Limited edition test vehicle boasted 16 x 7 inch Mechanica cast aluminium wheels and seats trimmed in dark slate grey leather. Looks good, but these are seats you feel you're sitting on, rather than in. More lateral support would be nice, particularly when the going gets tough off road.
• The six speaker sound system is all quality with steering wheel mounted audio controls a practical touch. The six disc remote CD changer is located in the cargo area.
• Look beyond the creature comforts and Cherokee is a tough rooster, having been built on a high-strength steel UniFrame.
• Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard and work well pulling up the vehicle's 2540kg gross weight.
• Cherokee's solid-axle rear suspension makes for true off-road capability while the independent front suspension contributes to on-road flexibility.
• Running ground clearance is 221mm.
• Having a full-sized spare wheel hanging off the tailgate – unlike some more upmarket off-roaders, which opt for space-saver spares – is reassuring when you head bush.
• Fold away mirrors on both sides are an obvious plus when also going gung ho through the gums.
• The 3.7l V6 has a towing capacity of 750kg/ 2265kg (unbraked/braked).
• Chrysler Jeep claim a combined cycle of 13.3l/100km which proved pretty well spot on – our test vehicle returned 13.5/.100km.
• The 3.7L V6 Sport costs $39,990 and the Limited Edition $45,990 (both plus on road costs).