Jeep Cherokee

Jeep's fifth generation Cherokee has been hauled right up to date, with a smarter look, advanced media connectivity and a new 2.0-litre petrol engine option. The experts at Car & Driving check it out

Ten Second Review

Jeep reckons that their Cherokee was the 'car that created the SUV segment', which makes you picture the tough, rough off roader this model used to be - but isn't any more. Forget setsquare styling and agricultural underpinnings: this improved fifth generation model is very different. As part of a package of mid-term updates, it's been re-styled, gains an all-new 2.0-litre direct injection turbo petrol engne option and includes the brand's fourth generation 'Uconnect' media connectivity.

Background

You think you know the Jeep Cherokee, right? It's that square, fairly unsophisticated thing that you have to make all kinds of justifications for when your friends look a bit puzzled and ask you why you didn't buy a Toyota RAV4. After which they start wondering if you're about to buy yourself a shotgun rack, a bowling ball and a barbecue to cook squirrels on. Older Cherokee models always appealed to the unreconstructed redneck, offering big-hearted, honest fun. This MK5 model though, launched in 2014, was cut from different cloth, far more of a lifestyle-orientated crossover than its predecessors, yet in its 4WD forms, still retaining some of the off road ability that marks out the Jeep brand. It's the revised version of that car that we're looking at here.

The good old boys with webbed feet and banjos aren't going to like this one bit. In contrast, those accustomed to a little more sophistication need to give it some serious attention, especially since the addition of an efficient 2.0-litre petrol turbo powerplant to the range.

Driving Experience

Jeep offers two Fiat-derived diesel engine choices, plus a rare 3.2-litre petrol V6 for top 'Trailhawk' variants. These options continue, but have been joined in this revised model range by an all-new 2.0-litre direct injection turbocharged inline four cylinder unit. Most likely customers though, will continue to concentrate on the diesel range, where entry-level buyers get a 140bhp 2.0-litre MultiJet unit with a six-speed manual box and a choice of either 2WD or 4WD set-ups. Offered only with 4WD is the preferable and more modern 2.2-litre MultiJet powerplant, available only with a 9-speed auto gearbox. This engine comes in either 185bhp or 200bhp guises and offers a wide spread of torque from low rpm. The pokier version in basic 'Active Drive I' guise makes 62mph from rest in 8.5s en route to 127mph and develops 440Nm of torque.

On standard versions, there's 'Snow' or 'Sand/Mud' options if you're offroad, a 'Sport' option for on-tarmac use and an 'Auto' setting if you can't be bothered to choose. For a car that could manage a bit more than that, you'd have to opt for Jeep's extra cost 'Active Drive II' 4WD system that adds a low range gearbox and Hill Descent Control to ease you down slippery slopes.

Design and Build

This revised fifth generation Cherokee features a series of exterior changes mainly focusing on the front end to bring it into line with the recently-launched Compass model. The bonnet, LED headlamps, daylight running lamps and fog lamps are all new. Even the classic seven-slot grille has been updated. In profile, there are fewer changes, so the traditional trapezoid wheel arch shapes remain, married to a low, sleek glasshouse. LED tail lights that seem to take a bite out of the rear window glass and a curvaceous tailgate that catches the eye at the back. As an option, buyers can also have a CommandView dual-pane power sunroof which extends from the windscreen to the rear of the vehicle.

Cherokee interiors always used to be tough but uninspiring. Nowadays, dull colour schemes, cheap plastics and poor ergonomics just won't wash in a market where even the cheapest Korean SUVs feature soft-touch plastics, get serious budget spent on all the touch-points in the cabin and demonstrate a laudable attention to detail. Therefore the Cherokee has had to shape up. With this updated model, the interior receives a fresh and elegant touch with Satin Chrome and Piano Black high-gloss accents, while remaining practical and comfortable environment.

Market and Model

Prices start at just over £26,000 for the 2.0-litre Longitude 140 6-speed variant, rising to around £38,000 for the top 2.2-litre 200bhp Limited automatic 4WD model. All versions are well equipped, coming complete with LED daytime running lights, LED tail lights, front foglamps that light your way around the bends, Jeep's handy 'ParkSense Rear Park Assist with Stop' sensor system, an alarm and 17-inch aluminium wheels, whose finish is matched on the window surrounds, grille, roof rails and exhaust tips.

Inside there's automatic air-conditioning and electric front windows, along with a six-way adjustable driver's seat. That's on top of cruise control, a fold-flat front passenger seat and a leather-trimmed steering wheel with buttons for the 'Uconnect' infotainment system with its 6-speaker audio set-up. This includes USB and Bluetooth connectivity, plus an audio jack input point, a remote SD card slot and an integrated voice command set-up. You also get a useful 'Cargo Management System' in the boot with a removable grocery bag and a universal module rack to which you can attach all kinds of extra-cost Mopar accessories - things like a cargo bin and mat, a foldable cooler and a first aid & emergency kit.

Cost of Ownership

Running costs have always been something of a thorny issue for Jeep. Traditionally, the brand builds its cars for a tough life - and that means extra weight. Which in turn, has usually previously meant a less than stellar showing on the balance sheet. With this fifth generation model, the brand was determined to show that off road excellence and efficiency could be combined in one complete package. So, how have they done? Not too badly as it happens.

The 140bhp 2WD variant manages 53.3mpg on the combined cycle and 139g/km of CO2. Most though, will be looking at the 2.2-litre automatic model. Thanks to its efficient 9-speed auto transmission, the 200bhp variant can manage 49.6mpg on the combined cycle and 150g/km of CO2 in 'Active Drive I' form. Go for this engine with the more capable 'Active Drive II' set-up with low range transmission and the returns fall to 46.3mpg and 160g/km.

Summary

Progress. It isn't always welcome but sometimes it's necessary. It's what's created this improved fifth generation Jeep Cherokee, a car that's simply had to evolve under the twin pressures of very different brand ownership and market demand.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: Jeep Cherokee range

PRICE: £26,000-£38,000 (est)

INSURANCE GROUP: 26E-29E (est)

CO2 EMISSIONS: [4x4] 139-233g/km (est)

PERFORMANCE: (0-62 mph) 10.9 / top speed 116 (est)

FUEL CONSUMPTION: [2.0 turbo diesel 170bhp] 48.7mpg [combined] (est)

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Seven airbags, stability control, ABS

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm TBC