Which we published earlier.
First generation
The mid-size Jeep Cherokee crossover is currently represented by the 2013 KL model, which is officially sold in Russia. This is already the fifth generation of the famous American SUV, which made the name “jeep” a household word. The first generation was introduced in the USA in 1974 as a further development of the Wagoneer model, which was released in the 60s of the last century. “Cherokee” has surpassed even Land Rover in its legendary status.
The “ancestor” of the modern Cherokee was an all-wheel drive and full-size classic SUV with the SJ index. In addition to America, it was popular in Argentina and Australia. Outwardly, it did not differ from many cars of that time, but was considered a reliable and passable vehicle.
The first versions of the Cherokee were equipped with two power units with a displacement of 4 and 5 liters. These two versions also differed in transmission design: one had a manual gearbox and all-wheel drive, while the other had an automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive. In total, about 200 thousand cars of the SJ version were produced.
There was also a special version of the performance called Chief. Compared to the basic configuration, it was distinguished by a wider track and wheel arches of increased diameter, as well as more expensive interior trim. Wide arches made it possible to install large wheels, which had a positive effect on the cross-country ability of the SUV.
Second generation
The second generation Cherokee with the XJ index was produced from 1984 to 2001. It determined the further trend towards reducing the size of the car. Although the XJ looked little different from its predecessor, it was smaller and more attractive in appearance. The front optics changed from round to rectangular, and the shape of the hood changed. The XJ model was produced in both five-door and three-door body styles.
A special feature of the second generation car is the presence of all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive modifications. The XJ received a monocoque body, which distinguished it from more traditional frame SUVs.
The luxury five-door version of this model is called Wagoneer. It was externally distinguished by dual headlights, and the interior was decorated with precious wood. The range of power units has been expanded. Two gasoline engines with a displacement of 2 and 4 liters appeared, as well as a two-liter turbodiesel with an output of 80 hp. But if gasoline engines were mated to both manual transmission and automatic transmission, then for diesel engines only “mechanics” were used.
On March 22, 1990, the second generation Cherokee broke the record for the mass production of American SUVs. If the cars of the first version did not hit the 200-unit mark, the new version easily surpassed the millionth mark. This event was marked by the release of the Cherokee XJ Limited modification.
In 1997, the XJ was restyled. As a result of this, the shape of the rear lights, bumpers and radiator grille changed (it received large vertical stripes). In total, the second generation Cherokee had three versions: Mounty, Sport and Limited.
Third generation
The 2001 Detroit Auto Show was marked by the premiere of the third generation of the most popular American SUV. The new model received the KJ index and was sold in the USA under the name Liberty.
Liberty differed from its predecessors in the presence of only two basic trim levels: Sport and Limited. However, it also did not have a traditional frame. Instead, a monocoque body with stiffening ribs along the bottom was used. The new model also received an independent front suspension.
The set of engines that the third generation SUV was equipped with was much wider. It was represented by four diesel and three gasoline units, with power ranging from 143 to 210 hp. From 2005 to 2007, a restyled version of the Cherokee KJ was produced. Its creators wanted to maintain a compromise between the car's off-road capabilities and passenger comfort. Therefore, the monocoque body and all-wheel drive remained, but the car was produced only in a five-door version. Also a feature of the third generation Cherokee was rack-and-pinion steering, which had not previously been used on Jeep vehicles.
The restyled version of 2005 featured more comfortable seats. In addition, the basic package included airbags, air conditioning and full power accessories. The steering wheel has leather trim.
A special version of the Renegade was dedicated to off-road fans. This version received two additional headlights on the roof, enlarged wheel arches, a special body kit and protection for all important structural components.
Jeep Cherokee engines cannot be unequivocally assessed. The two-liter petrol engine is the most economical, but it takes almost 14 seconds to accelerate to 100 km/h. The 3.7-liter unit has much better dynamics, but average fuel consumption in the city often exceeds 20 liters per 100 km.
Fourth generation
Jeep Cherokee KK became the representative of the fourth generation of the brand. This version was equipped with a four-cylinder turbodiesel and a 3.7-liter gasoline “six”. It is believed that the gasoline engine is more reliable. But there is one peculiarity: the fuel pump and fuel filter cannot be disassembled, so if the filter is clogged, the entire pump needs to be replaced.
Fuel injectors are recognized as the weak point of the Cherokee KK diesel engine. The diesel engine is built using a common rail system, so replacing these parts can be expensive for the owner. Therefore, experienced jeepers advise choosing gas stations more carefully and, if possible, installing an additional separator filter in the fuel system. In general, Italian diesel engines in a jeep are not an easy economic decision. The article by our technical director presents the main arguments against diesel engines in these cars.
If an injector fails, the engine may experience uncontrolled entry of unburned fuel into the cylinders. This can result in damage to the piston group and crankshaft. And since the engine is turbocharged, there is another problem.
Typically, the turbine begins to weaken at about 90,000 kilometers. Therefore, when purchasing an SUV on the secondary market, it would be a good idea to pay attention to the condition of the turbine. It wouldn't hurt to install a turbo timer either. Otherwise, an uncontrolled “oil guzzler” will destroy the entire engine.
On the Russian market, the KK is mainly represented by the Limited trim level with an automatic transmission. More precisely, there were two “machine guns”, American and German. American boxes were installed on SUVs with gasoline engines. Diesels relied on the German NAG-1. They are both reliable when used correctly. Every 40-45 thousand kilometers it is recommended to change the transmission oil.
Among the problems of steering and suspension, it is worth noting the play of the steering rack and the failure of ball joints. Such troubles should be expected after 50,000 km. Also consumable spare parts include bushings and anti-roll bar struts. There is a note on electrics: you need to pay special attention to the condition of various connectors and cables, and be careful when installing additional equipment.
Jeep Cherokee KL
The fifth generation with the KL index is very popular in Russia. The 2014 Cherokee chassis is completely new. Now the car is a fashionable front-wheel drive crossover with a transverse engine.
Not only the appearance, but also the interior decoration of the “Indian” was subject to changes. All important information is now displayed not only on analog devices, but also on the wide color screen of the multimedia system.
The current Cherokee model is perfect for comfortably overcoming rough terrain. This is largely possible thanks to its geometric parameters. Despite the fact that the all-terrain vehicle was essentially turned into a “SUV”, its off-road capabilities are quite wide. Especially the luxury version of the Trailhawk.
The new car, in terms of performance and even handling, comes closest to the older model called Grand Cherokee. It has a built-in navigator and even a special “off-road” cruise control, which previously only the Japanese Land Cruiser could boast of. The off-road driving style on the KL clearly fits into the stable expression “slow but sure.”
The car was equipped with all existing active and passive safety equipment. There are no less of them here than in luxury sedans. “Indian” is even able to recognize road markings! It’s a pity that it’s not available everywhere on our roads.
But the real achievement of the new Cherokee is its efficiency. Despite the fact that the SUV is equipped with two far from weak power units, fuel consumption in the urban cycle rarely exceeds 15 liters per 100 km. A dozen engines are offered: from a 140-horsepower diesel to a 270-horsepower gasoline.
| Modification | Doors | Fuel | Power, hp | checkpoint |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0d AT (140) | 5 | Diesel | 140 | Automatic transmission |
| 2.0d AT (170) 4WD | 5 | Diesel | 170 | Automatic transmission |
| 2.0d MT (140) | 5 | Diesel | 140 | Manual transmission |
| 2.0d MT (140) 4WD | 5 | Diesel | 140 | Manual transmission |
| 2.4 AT (177) | 5 | Petrol | 177 | Automatic transmission |
| 2.4 AT (177) 4WD | 5 | Petrol | 177 | Automatic transmission |
| 2.4AT (184) | 5 | Petrol | 184 | Automatic transmission |
| 2.4 AT (184) 4WD | 5 | Petrol | 184 | Automatic transmission |
| 3.2 AT (272) | 5 | Petrol | 272 | Automatic transmission |
| 2.4 AT (272) 4WD | 5 | Petrol | 272 | Automatic transmission |
There are four main modifications: Sport, Longitude, Traihawk and Limited.
Advantages:
- acoustic comfort in the cabin
- convenient climate control
- good acceleration dynamics
- there are no “crickets” in the cabin
- moderate suspension settings.
- possible delays when changing gears
- small trunk
- for serious off-roading the car needs to be rebuilt
- Fuel consumption may seem high, although lower than its predecessors.
As for the most typical problems, on the fifth generation Cherokee it is worth paying attention to the condition of the front ball joints, steering ends and front hubs.
Typical Jeep Cherokee automatic transmission faults:
- failure of the overrunning clutch;
- delays in switching stages;
- destruction of the clutch;
- overheat.
To avoid these problems, you need to drive the car moderately, without sudden acceleration and braking. In extreme cases, the Vita-Motors service specialists will take care of repairing the gearbox and other components of your SUV.
The famous brands Jeep and Subaru now rarely delight fans with original models, but the powerful crossovers Cherokee and Forester are just like that - with charisma and spirit. In both cases, for the pleasure of “driving a legend” you will have to pay a tidy sum, and our task is to understand which of the cars better fulfills its price tag
“Horror, horror, horror,” - with these words the world community greeted the new generation of Jeep Cherokee, built on a compact Italian passenger car platform. It’s a nice thing: the car doesn’t have full-fledged headlights, instead there are only two levels of foglights and turn signals - this is how the body is visually perceived from the face. The broad masses did not appreciate the radical stuffing on the part of the designers - there have not been such negative reviews about the appearance of the car, perhaps, since the days of the Pontiac Aztek. Of course, the majority made their verdict based on the photographs and, in my opinion, got carried away. In person, the car doesn’t look so scary, and it’s not the headlights that attract attention, but the branded radiator grille with seven vertical patented slits - the model is recognizable, it’s perceived as a Jeep even from afar, and the owners of other cars of this brand greeted me with a thumbs up, that is, definitely accepted as one of their own. I’m not sure, however, that all “Jeep drivers” are aware that this Cherokee is built on the same platform as the Alfa Romeo Giulietta - for adherents of the brand, this fact is much more damning than the “scary face”, because it completely undermines the off-road pedigree of the model .
Indian by life. Jeep Cherokee
Chalaghi is what the Cherokee Indians call themselves in their unique syllabic language. So the car could well be called Jeep Tsalagi.
Chalaghi is what the Cherokee Indians call themselves in their unique syllabic language. So the car could well be called Jeep Tsalagi. But Cherokee, of course, is more familiar to our ears. It is so familiar that in Russia they have already come up with several “originally Russian” interpretations for it: “cherokee”, “broad”, “teal”... We went to drive the new generation of the legendary jeep near Seliger.
The first Cherokee, which appeared back in 1984, turned out to be a successful car - charismatic, original and, importantly, with an automatically connected drive. The Jeep design turned out to be so successful that it allowed the model to remain on the assembly line for 17 years! It's no surprise that the first Cherokee sold 2,884,172 copies worldwide! Engines were changed and modified, suspension and transmission were modernized, but the frame body and characteristic angular appearance remained almost unchanged all this time. This is how Jeep is used to, this is how they love it. Therefore, when the KJ, the second generation of the model, debuted in 2002, many did not like it: rounded shapes, uncharacteristic headlights... Chrysler took into account the mistakes and decided to bring the appearance of the modern Cherokee closer to its progenitor as best they could. And, I must say, they achieved their goal. There are more angles and broken lines again, and the headlights are usually squared off. The Cherokee has become itself, but at the same time someone will probably recognize it as another car, namely the Dodge Nitro. Chrysler does not hide the fact that these cars have a common platform and are produced at the same plant in Toledo, Ohio. But of course there are differences. They are aimed at separating the fighters on opposite sides of the ring: Nitro - on asphalt, and Cherokee - on off-road. Therefore, the Jeep wheelbase was shortened by 69 mm and the overhangs were reduced. Instead of the primitive Nitro all-wheel drive transmission, the Cherokee is equipped with the proprietary Selec-Trac II with a transfer case and a reduction range. But still, instead of the center differential used on previous generations of the model, an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch now operates. Simplified? May be. But nevertheless, the BLD (Braking Lock Differential) system has appeared in the rear axle, which is capable of simulating the operation of a self-locking cross-axle differential.
general information
It has a simple and reliable internal structure.
Dimensions length, width, comparison with other cars, etc.
DIMENSIONS
JEEP CHEROKEE
Compare with other Jeeps
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Cherokee(XJ) |
Wrangler(YJ) |
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Changes by year
In 1985:
appearance of a 2.1 liter Turbodiesel
the advent of remote door opening
Cherokee Limited Wagoneer
In 1986:
The appearance of central injection on a 2.5-liter engine;
The appearance of an off-road package of additional equipment. It included:
- high pressure shock absorbers;
- tires P225/75R15 Goodyear Wranglers;
- gear ratio in axles - 4.1;
- Tow hooks - 2 in front and 1 in rear;
- suspension raised by 1 inch
The appearance of the Cherokee Limited Wagoneer, which was produced in 1990 inclusive
In 1987:
The appearance of a 4-liter, 6-cylinder, in-line engine with multipoint fuel injection from Renix;
The appearance of a 4-speed automatic transmission;
The appearance of transfer cases NP231 and NP242;
The emergence of alloy wheel rims
In 1988:
The two-door body began to be offered in the Limited configuration
The radiator grille has changed. Instead of 10 slot it became 8 slot
In 1989:
The introduction of the Bendix anti-lock brake system. This year it was installed only on cars with 6-cylinder engines.
A 20-gallon tank (76 liters) began to be installed on all cars
(before that it was still installed 13.5 (50 liters).
Power steering became standard equipment.
On the Limited model, remote locking and unlocking of doors has become standard.
In 1990:
Three-point rear seat belts became standard;
The overhead instrument console appears in the options list.
A stereo radio began to be installed as standard.
In 1991:
The appearance of an engine control computer (2.5 liters);
Replacing the Renix fuel injection system with a system developed by Chrysler itself
Engine head modernization (4.0 liters);
The appearance of a security alarm option.
On 4-door models, rear door locks have been added to prevent children from opening them.
Refusal to equip the 4-cylinder engine with an automatic transmission
Refusal to turn the windows in the front doors (some leaked when it rained)
In 1992:
They began to install an anti-lock braking system ABS from Bosh instead of ABS from Bendix.
For the Sport model, a glass sunroof has been added to the list of options.
Radios began to be equipped with a built-in electronic clock.
The Laredo model began to be supplied with an optional leather interior
In 1993:
The appearance of multipoint injection on the 2.5 liter engine.
Instead of the Limited model, the Country model began to be produced to avoid confusion with the Grand Cherokee and its Limited modification that appeared this year.
In 1994:
Increased roof rigidity during a rollover;
The appearance of side impact reinforcement beams in the doors.
An additional brake light on the rear door appeared as an option.
In air conditioning, instead of R-12, R-134a refrigerant, which does not contain freon, began to be used.
In 1995:
Driver airbag introduced
Selec Trac transfer case upgraded
The gas tank has become plastic
In 1996:
All cars began to be manufactured with diagnostic capabilities according to the OBD II standard
The fuel supply system began to be implemented according to a scheme without a return line
In 1997:
The external and internal design has changed.
The tailgate began to be made of metal rather than plastic.
The tank has become plastic
The technical process of painting and polishing has been changed.
Electrical wiring began to be carried out in multi-plex harnesses to reduce wiring failures
In 1998:
Classic and Limited modifications began to be produced to replace the Country modification.
With the 4-cylinder engine again (after failure in '91) it became possible to equip it with a 3-speed automatic transmission
In 1999:
Heated seats now available as an option
In 2000:
The car began to be equipped with a manual transmission NVG 3550
In 2001:
The 2.5 liter petrol engine has been discontinued.
The 4-liter engine received a Euro III exhaust system
Model designations
S.E.(Pioneer until 1990) - base model, usually with a 4-cylinder engine, manual transmission and NP231 transfer case.
Sport- Usually with a 4-liter, 6-cylinder, in-line engine, manual transmission and NP231 transfer case (but an NP242 transfer case paired with an automatic transmission can be installed upon request). In general, if you order a car in the Sport configuration, everything that is installed on the Limited can be installed.
Limited or Country- Comes with extras. options - all electric, leather, better audio system, ABS installed, etc. As a rule, a 4-cylinder gasoline engine, with an automatic transmission and NP242 transfer case. Or the Limited can be had with a diesel engine, manual transmission and NP231 transfer case. There may also be a rear-wheel drive version in the Limited trim level.
Up-Country- this is not a model designation, but an option designation, that is, with the off-road package installed. Includes tow hooks, pan and gas tank protectors. In some years it came with an additional engine cooling fan. Higher suspension springs, from 0.5" to 1.5" depending on the year of manufacture.
Towing Package- this is not a model designation, but an option designation, that is, with a towing package. A towbar and an additional engine cooling fan are installed. Usually comes with a generator of increased power. In some years it was produced with a lower main gear.
The Jeep Cherokee SUV debuted in 1974 as a more “sporty” version of the 1963 Wagoneer model; it differed from the original in terms of equipment and external design. Initially, the car was produced only with a three-door body, but in 1977 the car also had a five-door modification.
The Cherokee was equipped with V8 engines of 5.9 and 6.6 liters, as well as inline six-cylinder engines of 4.2 liters. Versions with a four-speed manual transmission had all-wheel drive, while cars with a three-speed automatic transmission had permanent all-wheel drive and a locking center differential.
The production of first generation cars continued until 1983. In addition to the USA, they were collected in Australia and Argentina.
2nd generation (XJ), 1984–2001
The second-generation Jeep Cherokee, which debuted in 1984, was one of the first models of a new class of “compact SUV” that was gaining popularity in the American market. The car received a monocoque body instead of a frame and a front spring suspension instead of springs. The SUV was offered in three-door and five-door body styles, and a slightly modified version of the car was also sold under the name Jeep Wagoneer.
The Jeep Cherokee was equipped with 2.5 and V6 2.8 engines (105–130 hp), and the most powerful was the version with a four-liter inline six, developing 173–190 hp. The SUV was also equipped with a 2.1-liter Renault turbodiesel (85 hp), which was replaced in 1994 with an Italian VM Motori diesel engine with a volume of 2.5 liters and a power of 114 hp. The gearbox could be manual or automatic. Initially, all Cherokees had all-wheel drive, but in 1985 a rear-wheel drive version went on sale.
In 1997, the model was slightly restyled, slightly affecting the exterior and interior. The range of power units includes 2.5 and 4.0 petrol engines, as well as a 2.5-liter turbodiesel.
The second generation Jeep Cherokee was exported, among other countries, to Europe; vehicle assembly was organized in Argentina and Venezuela. In the USA, production of the SUV ended in 2001, and in China this model, in a modified form, is still produced under the brand name. Back in 1984, Beijing Jeep Corporation became the first Chinese joint venture with a foreign manufacturer, and Cherokee became the first relatively mass-produced foreign car on the local market.
3rd generation (KJ), 2001–2007
In 2001, there was a generation change in the model. True, in the USA and Canada the car was renamed, but outside North America the name “Cherokee” was retained. The car had a completely new design, the front suspension became independent, and springs appeared at the rear instead of springs. The three-door version has disappeared from the lineup.
The Jeep Cherokee was equipped with a 2.4 gasoline engine with a power of 147 horsepower and VM Motori turbodiesels with a volume of 2.5 or 2.8 liters (141–163 hp). Such vehicles had a Command-Trac all-wheel drive transmission with a rigidly connected drive to the front wheels. But the “flagship” version V6 3.7 (211 hp) had a more “advanced” Selec-Trac system - permanent all-wheel drive with a center differential.
The third generation of Cherokee was officially supplied to the Russian market. The main plant producing cars was located in the USA, in Ohio; SUVs were also assembled in Egypt and Venezuela.
4th generation (KK), 2007–2012
The fourth generation SUV, which debuted in 2007, was created on a common platform with the model. In the American market the name continued to be used. The car received a new transmission: instead of a center differential, it had a multi-plate clutch that automatically connected the front wheels.
The Jeep Cherokee was equipped with a 2.8-liter VM Motori turbodiesel with a capacity of 177 hp. With. (after modernization - 200 hp) or a V6 3.7 gasoline engine developing 205 hp. An “automatic” was offered as an alternative to the six-speed manual transmission: five-speed for the diesel version and four-speed for the gasoline version.
Both modifications were officially offered on the Russian market. Prices for a diesel Cherokee started at 1.6 million rubles, for a gasoline one - at 1.5 million rubles.
Production of Jeep Cherokees continued until 2012. The main plant was located in the US state of Ohio, but cars were also assembled in Egypt and Venezuela.
Jeep Cherokee engine table
Sales market: USA.
The updated second-generation Jeep Cherokee (XJ series) was introduced in 1997, almost 14 years after its debut - the model turned out to be so successful that it remained in production even after the launch of the ZJ series (1993), called the Jeep Grand Cherokee. And they thoroughly worked on the “old man” XJ in order to refresh its appearance and improve consumer qualities. External and most noticeable changes include a new radiator grille, new bumpers and wheel arch trims, completely new front and rear optics, and redesigned wheel rims. A number of improvements were aimed at improving driving comfort and increasing body safety. The seriousness of the changes is also evidenced by the fact that, according to the manufacturer, more than half of the body parts are either completely new or have undergone significant modernization, aimed, among other things, at improving the accuracy of fit of body elements. Under the hood of cars for the American market are time-tested gasoline engines of 2.5 and 4.0 liters.
The interior of the car has completely changed - a new front panel has been installed, the interior trim has been improved, the windows have disappeared from the front doors - for the sake of better visibility, and new mirrors also correspond to this. The heating and ventilation system was modernized, noise and vibration levels were reduced. The list of standard equipment was expanded and trim levels were updated: the Jeep Cherokee was offered in SE, Sport, and Country versions; the top-end Limited trim offers an improved set of options. The equipment now includes a CD player, a climate control system, an on-board computer for the overhead console, a leather interior, and electric front seat adjustments in six directions. In 1999, heated front seats and other useful amenities were added as an option.
The main engine of the second generation Jeep Cherokee after restyling and the most successful of the engines is a 4.0-liter inline six with an output of 190 hp. (305 Nm), after a slight modernization in 2000, the power of this engine was increased to 193 hp. (313 Nm). Its capabilities are enough to accelerate the SUV to a maximum speed of 183-184 km/h; acceleration to 100 km/h will take 8.8-9.9 seconds, depending on the modification. Average gas mileage, as estimated by the EPA, is 14-15L/100km. The 2.5-liter in-line 4-cylinder gasoline engine is more economical - consumption is 12 l/100 km. However, the dynamic performance also looks more modest - the maximum speed is 162 km/h, acceleration to 100 km/h in 11.8 seconds. This engine was discontinued from production in 2000, a year before the end of production of cars in this series.
The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) chassis uses solid axles front and rear. Due to the simplicity of the design, the suspension is very reliable and maintainable. Despite the presence of rigid axles, due to design tweaks it was possible to provide the car with a high smooth ride on the highway and sufficient suspension travel on the roads, with a ground clearance of 200-220 mm. The Cherokee was available with both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Depending on the version, different all-wheel drive transmission options are available: 4x4 part-time Command-Trac with a manually engaged front axle - this system can only be used in off-road conditions; There is also the possibility of constant movement on Full Time 4WD with the Selec-Trac system.
During the modernization, the safety of the Jeep Cherokee has significantly increased. Standard equipment includes three-point seat belts, a safety steering column, door reinforcements, anti-lock brakes, driver and passenger airbags, and an additional brake light. Towards the end of production, the Jeep Cherokee (XJ) acquired child seat mounts.
The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) is an almost iconic car that has become incredibly popular all over the world. The 1997 modernization allowed the Cherokee to remain on the production line for several more years and remain in production for almost 18 years, until 2001. Its advantages include a high level of comfort, a durable and reliable chassis, and durable engines (the 4-liter engine is the most trouble-free, but the 2.5-liter gasoline engine also has a fairly good resource). Considering the years of manufacture, when purchasing a used Cherokee, it is important to pay attention to the absence of corrosion in the strength elements of the body, the absence of cracks in the welds of the roof (vehicles subjected to heavy off-road loads may suffer from this).
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