2001 Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee dates to the 1984 model year, when it was downsized and introduced as the first modern compact sport utility vehicle. The 2001 Jeep Cherokee was the last model year for its production. The Cherokee is still tough as nails, reasonably inexpensive and, in four-wheel-drive guise, thoroughly capable when the pavement ends. More than that, its flat-planed, square-edged styling resonates with all the richness of Jeep history. The Jeep Cherokee was popular from the day it was rolled out in 1984, right up to this 2001 model. The Cherokee is a nice and simple all around compared to most vehicles from this year. It holds lots of gear for a small SUV, it has go-anywhere capability, excellent reliability, and impressive four wheel drive. The Cherokee of 2001 has the hands down best and most capable system for any condition from this model year and segment. The only major changes for 2001 were the addition of child seat tether anchors, a change in powertrain options, and Steel Blue replaced Desert Sand on the color chart.
For 2001, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder that had been the base engine was eliminated. A 4.0-liter inline-six-cylinder with 190 horsepower is now the only choice. Cherokee comes with two-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive or full-time 4WD that can be used on smooth, dry pavement
Cherokee
offers two levels of 4WD: part-time Command-Trac and full-time
Selec-Trac. Both include a 2.72:1 low range, but Selec-Trac has a center
planetary differential with a 48/52 torque split for free running on
dry pavement. Cherokee waver a bit on uneven pavement at highway
speeds. The Cherokee shows its true colors off-road. Its
combination of good ground clearance, short wheelbase and a favorable
power-to-weight ratio make this vehicle take control in the
woods. The Selec-Trac four-wheel drive system, which can be
used full-time, comes in handy. Thanks to its relatively low curb
weight, the Cherokee is something of an athlete among its peers. Its
on-center steering feel leaves much to be desired, however. Cherokee's
optional four-speed automatic is a smooth operator, and there's enough
torque in the venerable inline six-cylinder engine to generate excellent
stoplight getaway, automatic or not.
Inside
the Cherokee, changes from the 1997 redesign is apparent, as the more
modern cabin featured several key improvements in ergonomics, safety and
style. A new dash (with a passenger airbag), revised gauges and a new
center stack with easier to use controls for the stereo (now available
with both cassette and CD players) and climate control system sported a
cleaner design with fewer pieces, which decreased the likelihood of
squeaks and rattles. Other interior refinements included new door
panels, lighted power mirror and window switches, a trip computer for
the overhead console and a new center console that boasted integrated
cupholders. The Jeep Cherokee is a bit uncomfortable for the driver as
it is difficult to adjust the seat. Although the Cherokee is still
rectilinear and blocky, the dashboard has shed the cheap appearance of
earlier models. The Cherokee is available with comfort and
convenience features, including a good sound system with cassette and CD
players, air conditioning, power driver's seat, an overhead digital
info center and two digital clocks. Cherokee holds five people, though
the rear seat is cramped compared to some rivals?, and the
narrow rear doors can be tight to negotiate. The spare tire is mounted
upright in the cargo area, using up valuable storage
space. Still, consumer do not drive the Cherokee for
its comfort and convenience, they are more interested in its overall
reliability and rugged abilities not found elsewhere.
Sport
models are fairly basic, with power steering, power brakes, full
carpeting, four-speaker AM/FM/cassette stereo, a clock and tachometer,
variable intermittent wipers and a five-speed manual transmission.
Limiteds technically add only a luggage rack, power mirrors, upgraded
seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear wiper, four-speed
automatic transmission and an upgrade from 15-inch steel to 16-inch
aluminum wheels.
Summary
The Jeep Cherokee, introduced in the 1984 model year when Jeep was part of American Motors Corporation (AMC), was the first compact 4-door sport utility. Over the years it has developed a loyal following, not only among the public but also among business and government agencies. AMC's original plans called for the model now known as the Grand Cherokee to replace this vehicle, but after Chrysler and AMC merged Chrysler continued the Cherokee line as a value-priced sport-utility alternative. When the Cherokee was redesigned for the first time in 1997 it received a new front and rear appearance, a new liftgate, a new instrument panel and a new instrument cluster, but it didn't stray far from the successful original Cherokee look. In 1999 the exterior appearance of the Cherokee Sport was upgraded to include body-color bumpers, wheel flares, grille and headlight bezels. The interior of the Cherokee may be cramped compared to newer rivals, and the ride quality and noise levels are behind the times. Nevertheless, it serves well as a basic, reasonably priced SUV with convenient 4WD systems and enough utility for a small family. The Jeep Cherokee was expected to be axed years before the 2001 model, yet customers kept buying them. As Jeep was eager to introduce newer, more modern, more aerodynamic products, such as the Liberty, the 2001 Cherokee was finally replaced after 2001.