The Cherokee was one of Jeep's longest running models, but that came to an end in 2023. With nearly 5 decades of models, a lot has changed over the years, and that's what we're here to look at how this SUV changed. If you're in the market for one, chances are you want something a bit more practical for you, and the family. This is how to choose a used Jeep Cherokee for family road trips.
Key Takeaways:
- Despite having a few different names, the Cherokee/Liberty has been the same vehicle.
- The most family friendly, and fuel efficient model is in the 5th generation, making it the perfect one for road trips.
- If you want something a bit more “unique”, then you can look for a later 4th generation Liberty. This one comes with some of the features that we still use today.
First Generation (1974-1983)
This is where it all started for the Cherokee. Originally designed as a full-size SUV, this generation was found as both a 2 and 4 door model.
Second Generation (1984-2001)
This generation is when the Cherokee became what we know today. Hailed as the “innovator of the modern SUV”, this model struck gold. This generation ditched the old design, and now sat on a lightweight unibody design.
Third Generation (2002-2007)
Being that the Cherokee has a bigger brother that is the Grand Cherokee, this generation tried to change things up by now being called the “Liberty”.
Still using a unibody design, this generation saw the first use of rack and pinion steering on a Jeep vehicle. This generation also saw the debut of the “PowerTech” engines. This Cherokee also had an independent front suspension that hadn't been seen for nearly 60 years on a Jeep vehicle.
Fourth Generation (2008-2013)
Still using the Liberty moniker, the Cherokee had a redesign in 2008. 2008 saw the addition of a new standard engine, this one being iron-block, aluminum-head V6. With this engine, you were able to tow up to 5,000 lbs.
This generation came with a lot of standard equipment that we still use today. These are electronic stability control with roll mitigation, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. This year also had side airbags to add some extra safety to the vehicle.
If you find a Cherokee with some of these features, you can consider yourself lucky as they were optional upgrades. These features are rain-sensing wipers, Sirius Satellite Radio, Bluetooth, and a navigation system.
Fifth Generation (2014-2023)
This was the last generation for the Cherokee, and this one they returned to the Cherokee name. This generation became a crossover, and gained some size, giving it a new spot in the Jeep lineup.
This generation was the most fuel efficient one to hit the market. Capable of getting 31 mpg on the highway. Having almost 50% better fuel economy than the ones before.
When 2018 came around, the front end saw an update as well as a new engine. This engine was a 2.0L turbo engine that could produce 270 horsepower, and 295 lb-ft of torque.
In 2021 Jeep added even more comfort to the vehicle across all trim levels, and as a last goodbye to the model that lasted decades, it saw the 80th anniversary trims. During 2022 Car and Driver gave some nice words to the Cherokee, stating that it “can tow more than rivals, more capable off-road than competitors, satisfying ride-and -handling traits” showing that the vehicle still had some left to give.
Is the Jeep Cherokee a Good Used SUV?
Despite the efforts of the Cherokee, Jeep decided it was time to cease production of these SUVs in 2023, but that doesn't mean that you can't still get one. Come on by to Jarrett today and browse our inventory.