Alternatives

Ownership cost

Our recommendations

What is it like?

Reliability

Jeep only makes SUVs, but it has plenty of them for you to choose from. So, whether you want something rugged enough to ford streams and climb mountains, or a more luxurious and family-friendly car, it has something to suit you.

Despite its all-American image, Jeep is actually owned by Fiat, meaning Jeeps often share parts with cars from the Italian giant; the entry-level Renegade, for example, has plenty in common with Fiat’s 500X.

However, perhaps the most widely recognised Jeep is the Wrangler, a model that has a dedicated fan base and which closely resembles the original Jeep which saw service in World War 2.

The brand’s future plans include new small and large SUVs, plus the introduction of fully electric models.

JEEP

CHEROKEE

Lots of kudos but it's poor in too many areas

Used Jeep Cherokee 4x4 1993 - 2001

Buying a Cherokee isn't too expensive. Compared with the likes of the CR-V, RAV4 and even the Land Rover Freelander, it's a pretty cheap used car.

However, the running costs - and its fuel economy, in particular - are far less attractive. You'll struggle to get as much as 20mpg from the 4.0-litre model, and even the diesel can't do any better than 30mpg in everyday motoring. Almost every rival can do better than that.

Likewise, insurance and routine maintenance costs are pretty dear, and on a par with larger cars such as the Land Rover Discovery. If you're looking at the Cherokee as an alternative to a mainstream family car, you're in for a shock.

Just about the only consolation is that labour rates at Jeep dealers are only a little higher than average.

Lots of kudos but it's poor in too many areas

There were only ever three engines in the Cherokee, and biggest is best. Ignore the two 2.5-litre units and head straight for the six-cylinder 4.0-litre.

Of these two 2.5-litre units, the diesel at least has reasonable fuel economy - well, if you can call 30mpg reasonable. The sluggish 2.5 petrol is best avoided.

As long as you steer clear of the most basic Sport model, and buy a Limited version, you'll get plenty of equipment, including air-con. A range-topping Orvis version was introduced in March 1999 (T-reg onwards), but the Limited is so well equipped it's not worth spending the extra few hundred quid.

Because of the car's age, most models are now outside the Jeep network, so it's essential you shop around to find a good car. Look out for a full history and avoid any car that looks as if it's been neglected.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of space for all passengers</li> <li>Large boot with lots of clever storage solutions</li> <li>Good fuel economy and running costs</li> <li>All-round comfort</li> <li>High-quality interior finish</li></ul>

We define a large SUV as anything longer than 4.5 metres. These cars aren’t usually particularly cheap to buy or lease, so in return we expect a roomy cabin, a lengthy list of standard equipment and excellent cruising refinement.

A few models in this class are two-wheel drive, but the vast majority have four-wheel drive for at least a modicum of off-road ability.

Large SUV

As we've said, it's crucial you find a good Cherokee. Neglected cars can be problematic, and the difference between good and bad cars can be huge.

Reliability is certainly a big problem, as figures from Warranty Direct prove. The Cherokee has emerged as one of the least reliable 4x4s on its books, with the suspension and running gear causing the trouble in half the cases.

Various recalls have also affected the car, but perhaps the most worrying were: a recall for cars built in early 1995 regarding the driver's airbag; a 1996 problem with the handbrake; and another in 2000 where there were concerns that corrosion in the control module could cause the airbags to go off without warning.

With the possible exception of Land Rover, Jeep is just about the most famous name in off-roading. Like all the company's products, the Cherokee is a very good off-roader. It looks the part, too - tough, rough and rugged.

Unfortunately, it's too rough on the road. The ride is uncomfortable, the steering vague and there's too much body roll in corners. To cap it all, the engines are very noisy. Unless you particularly want a car to go off-road, you'll be better off in something like a Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.

The cabin is also far from impressive. The dashboard is a pain to use because of its poor ergonomics, the seats don't give enough support and the view out isn't great.

Worst of all, for such a big car, the rear and boot are both very cramped. Access is also awkward to the rear seats.

Used Jeep Cherokee 4x4 1993 - 2001 reliability

Complete the 2024 What Car? Reliability survey >>

https://survey.alchemer.eu/s3/90474827/16ebb403e3a6&rdt=2

Volkswagen ID 7 Tourer

Renault Symbioz

Dacia Spring

Alfa Romeo Junior

Peugeot e-5008

MG Cyberster

NEW REVIEWS:

site ribbon config

Used Jeep Cherokee 4x4 1993 - 2001 review

As we've said, it's crucial you find a good Cherokee. Neglected cars can be problematic, and the difference between good and bad cars can be huge.,Reliability is certainly a big problem, as figures from Warranty Direct prove. The Cherokee has emerged as one of the least reliable 4x4s on its books, with the suspension and running gear causing the trouble in half the cases.,Various recalls have also affected the car, but perhaps the most worrying were: a recall for cars built in early 1995 regarding the driver's airbag; a 1996 problem with the handbrake; and another in 2000 where there were concerns that corrosion in the control module could cause the airbags to go off without warning.

What to look for when buying a Jeep Cherokee 1993 - 2001, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability.

NEW REVIEWS:

Used Jeep Cherokee 4x4 1993 - 2001 reliability

Jeep Cherokee 4.0 Stealth 4x4 5dr

Jeep Cherokee 4.0 Limited 4x4 5dr

What should I look for in a used Jeep Cherokee 4x4?

What are the most common problems with a used Jeep Cherokee 4x4?

Is a used Jeep Cherokee 4x4 reliable?

What Car? has cars in stock

Quick search

Tools & services

Legal bits

Information