REVIEW: Jeep Cherokee Limited FWD

IT’S a Jeep Jim, but not as we know it...

The new Cherokee might not have been beamed into showrooms from outer space, but it is a huge styling departure for the American brand.

Part Citroen Cactus, part Kia Sportage there’s both surprise and familiarity in its panels.

Cherokee prices start at £26,110 in 140bhp turbodiesel engined, front-wheel-drive Longitude.

At £33,195 the range-topping Cherokee Limited tested here comes laden with a specification which a giant 8.4-inch touchscreen entertainment system incorporating sat-nav, a nine-speaker Alpine stereo system, DAB radio and Bluetooth handsfree connectivity.

There’s also a seven-inch TFT display in the instrument display ahead of the driver, cruise control, leather trim, heated front seats, keyless entry and engine starting, parking sensors, a reversing camera and a wireless phone charger.

Among the hardware is a powered tailgate and off-road suspension coupled to Jeep’s Select-Terrain system, which can hone characteristics through Auto, Sport, Snow or Sand/Mud and Rock.

The interior manages to feel a little low-rent, despite the premium price, though. Plastic abounds and there aren’t the natural materials and cold metallic surfaces which bring a sense of tactility.

That giant infotainment system works surprisingly well, given that on first glance it appears complex, the screen busy with controls.

The Cherokee can be bought with 140bhp or 170bhp turbodiesel engines and its the lower power version, coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox, tested here.

Jeep claims a 12 second dash to 62mph and 117mph top speed, along with 50.4mpg fuel economy and 147g/km CO2 emissions.

Its a gutsy engine, with 236lb.ft. of torque, but the manual gearbox does not like to be hustled, feeling a little utilitarian.

Through corners the Cherokee feels a little aloof, with a degree of roll and a propensity to understeer.

Practicality is up there with the likes of Toyota’s Rav4, Mazda’s CX-5 and Kia’s Sportage, though, with a 591 litre boot and 1,600kg braked towing capacity.

Jeep has re-written its script with its styling and upgraded its software to ensure the new Cherokee’s futuristic looks at least partly reflect its functionality.

But it still feels a sturdy, rather old-school off-roader underneath it all.

Jeep Cherokee Limited FWD

Engine: 1,956cc, four-cylinder, turbodiesel

Power: 138bhp and 258lb.ft. of torque

Performance: 0-62mph in 12 seconds and 117mph

Economy: 50.4mpg (combined)

CO2 emissions: 147g/km

Price: £33,195