The Sunday Mail
With TM Supermarket and Zimpapers set to hand over the grand prize of the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Compass vehicles in the Big Brands Bargain Bonanza draw, we this week delve into what the iconic Jeep Cherokee is all about.
IF you are a fan of cars, vans, and compact SUVs, then chances are you have heard of the Jeep Cherokee.
Stemming from a division of American Motors, the car was manufactured and produced by Chrysler for many years.
It is a well-known and widely used vehicle that left a lasting impression on the world of autos, and has great potential to be reinvented in the future.
If you are interested in learning about the history of this car including the years in which various models were made, then you can use this guide to gain some valuable information.
1984 to 1986
The first year that this car was produced was 1984. This première edition weighed around 3 000 pounds and had excellent fuel mileage compared to competitor vehicles.
It came with a V6 engine and had four-wheel drive, with the capability to seat five people.
In its first year, the car sold almost 78 000 units due to popularity in the Press and overall acceptance by consumers.
The 1985 version brought front headrests and passenger assist handles, as well as two-wheel-drive
options.
A four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine was also introduced, along with a new feature for key-less entry into the car.
The 1986 model introduced a more powerful four-cylinder engine that came standard in the vehicle. The engine was capable of 117 horsepower which was an overall increase of 12 horsepower from previous editions, and which prompted smoother operation when driving.
1987 to 1990
In 1987 the Cherokee became focused on horsepower, jumping from a 2,8 V6 engine to a 4-litre six-cylinder engine. It was able to operate at 177 horsepower and could reach 60 miles per hour in just 9 seconds, which was quick for an SUV at that time.
A limited two-door unit was introduced in 1988 and the turbo-diesel engine option was removed from the line-up.
The Laredo version of the car had the addition of chrome trim for added panache, and the Sport addition came in a two-door option with special graphics for even more style. In 1989 an anti-lock braking system or ABS was added to the car’s features, along with power steering and a 20-gallon fuel tank.
The 1990 edition of the vehicle had improved safety features with three-point seat belts, and an updated overhead console that had a compass, an outside thermometer, and extra space for items like sunglasses.
1991 to 1993
In 1991 the vehicle saw boosted power for its four and six-cylinder engines along with a new multi-point fuel-injection system in the engine. It was able to speed up to 60 miles per hour in under nine seconds, and it had added features like an illuminated entry system and double-sided keys.
There wasn’t too much of a change to the 1992 version aside from some cosmetic additions like carpeting and optional leather seating. In 1993 a model called the Country was introduced with a champagne colour and fender flares. Each of the models was given a stainless steel exhaust system that were built to last a long time and to help lower the cost of owning the car.
1994 to 1996
In 1994 the Jeep Cherokee was given even more safety features including side-impact beams in the doors and a more crush-resistant roof. The air conditioning in the vehicle was upgraded to use CFC or chlorofluorocarbons-free refrigerant. The vehicle received some more changes in 1995, with a driver’s side air-bag installed and an automatic 3-speed transmission offered to customers purchasing the SE edition.
The Sport and Country versions used a 4-litre, six-cylinder engine that had either a five-speed or a four-speed transmission.
The 1996 version of the car saw minor changes, such as small engine alterations to help the car run quieter and more smoothly. Safety was also upgraded in 1996 as an automatic transmission and brake pedal interlock were brought on to reduce the risk of accidents. This edition also had an upgraded electrical system through a sturdier battery.
1997 to 1999
The 1997 model brought some much-needed cosmetic and entertainment upgrades, like a sleeker appearance with soft corners and larger side-view mirrors. It also had new wheels, new body mouldings, and lower front vent windows. The dashboard was changed with the addition of a passenger-side air-bag, and cassette and CD players were available along with a climate control system.
The 1998 vehicle had minor changes to the bumpers and mouldings, as well to the roof rack, the air conditioning, and optional car colour choices.
In 1999, there were also some minor upgrades like a Sentry Key system for anti-theft purposes, optional heated front seats, and improved engine efficiency.
2000 to 2001
During the last two years of production, the vehicle saw more refinement and polish. In 2000 it had a rejuvenated engine that was quieter and met Low Emission Vehicle Standards.
It also had a new five-speed manual gearbox and an overall glitzier appearance than the other editions.
Chrome headlights were added to the grille of the car, with silver alloy wheels to give it some extra style.
New colour options were also available, which provided customers with some more personalisation choices.
The 2001 model was the last one to be produced with a 2,5-litre and four-cylinder engine.
It also brought on tether anchors for child seats, and swapped out one colour option for another.
The Jeep Cherokee has been a popular car amongst SUV fans for years, and continues to be the car of choice for many who need a sturdy and reliable vehicle.
Though this iconic car only lasted until 2001, in February of 2013 Chrysler announced a replacement for the Liberty line that would bring back the car’s namesake. It is a globally recognised label that is sure to gain fans old and new with such a rich heritage.
If you are interested in purchasing one of the older or newer models, then be sure to shop around for the best price and understand the features of your desired edition before you make the purchase — autos.answers.com
