2015 Jeep® Grand Cherokee: Premium Upgrades Come To The Most Awarded SUV Ever

•Jeep® Grand Cherokee Summit models receive additional premium standard features, an available Summit California Edition appearance package and Argentina Tan leather interior

•New Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) standard on Summit

•Award-winning 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine and eight-speed transmission deliver 30 miles per gallon (mpg), driving range of more than 730 miles and best-in-class towing capability of 7,400 pounds

•More than 70 advanced safety and security features; most in class

•Legendary Jeep capability courtesy of three 4x4 systems, class-exclusive Quadra-Lift air suspension and class-leading Jeep Selec-Terrain traction management system with Selec-Speed Control

•Array of advanced user-friendly technology features including the award-winning Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen radio, 7-inch customer configurable multiview cluster display, Uconnect Access with cloud-based voice texting and a dual-screen Blu-ray DVD rear-seat entertainment system

Jeep® Grand Cherokee – the most awarded SUV ever and the vehicle that has long defined what a premium SUV should be – receives even more content for the 2015 model year. The Grand Cherokee Summit models receive added features as well as a new Summit California Edition appearance package that further enhances Summit's premium exterior aesthetics.

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee completely redefines the premium SUV, delivering consumers an unprecedented driving range, a choice of leading powertrain options, available clean-diesel technology, legendary benchmark capability, world-class craftsmanship, premium on-road driving dynamics, and a host of advanced user-friendly technology and safety features.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit has established itself as one of the most luxurious five-seat SUVs on the market today. For the 2015 model year, the Jeep brand has added more premium features to the Summit model that buyers will appreciate. A new Grand Cherokee Summit Argentina Tan leather interior is now available in addition to Morocco Black and Grand Canyon Jeep Brown. Covering the seats, center console armrest, upper door panels and upper dashboard, the new hue is accented with black stitching that complements the black carpeting and dark open-pore wood trim. Other new interior features include illuminated 'Summit' door sills and a new Berber carpet cargo mat.

To further enhance the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit's luxury credentials, an acoustic laminated windshield and second-row side glass are now standard. Combined with a new Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system, exterior road noise is further reduced within the cabin, taking the already award-winning and quiet interior to a new level.

Partnering with Harman Kardon to develop the system, ANC results in a 10 dB reduction in noise, enhancing music clarity due to the reduced ambient engine noise inside the cabin. This allows the Grand Cherokee Summit's 825-watt, nineteen-speaker Harman Kardon audio system to be heard and appreciated better than ever before.

When the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee made its debut, top-of-the-line Summit models received unique premium exterior features to set it apart from the rest of the Grand Cherokee lineup. For the 2015 model year, customers can enhance Summit's design to yet another level with the available Summit California Edition appearance package. This package features body-color lower body trim, mirror caps and door handles, Platinum Chrome accents on the grille, lower fascias and side sills, fog lamp bezels, rear step pad and badging. Satin Carbon painted 20-inch aluminum wheels are also part of the package.

Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers 30 miles per gallon (mpg) highway courtesy of an available 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine and standard eight-speed transmission. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 boasts an unmatched driving range of more than 730 miles.

Legendary Jeep capability comes courtesy of three available 4x4 systems, Jeep's Quadra-Lift air suspension system and class-leading Selec-Terrain traction management system. Grand Cherokee boasts best-in-class towing of 7,400 pounds, and a crawl ratio of 44.1:1.

A refined exterior design – complete with available bi-xenon headlamps with signature LED daytime running lamps (DRL) – provides a premium appearance. Interior luxury is achieved with premium amenities, including Natura leather, exotic open-pore wood trim and unique color offerings.

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes more than 70 safety and security features as well as an array of advanced user-friendly technology features, such as the award-winning Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen radio with integrated climate and infotainment controls, a 7-inch customer configurable multiview display cluster, Uconnect Access Via Mobile and cloud-based voice texting.

Built in Detroit, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in Laredo, Limited, Overland, Summit and SRT models.

Powertrain: Another 30 mpg Jeep SUV

Producing a class-leading 240 horsepower and a massive 420 lb.-ft. of torque, Jeep's award-winning 24-valve dual-overhead cam 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 delivers clean-diesel technology with low CO2 emissions. Capable of towing a best-in-class 7,400 pounds, the EcoDiesel-powered Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway in 4x2 models, resulting in a best-in-class driving range of more than 730 miles. The 4x4 models deliver 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway. Fuel economy is 43 percent more than competitive gasoline-powered V-8 SUVs in the segment.

Featuring variable-valve timing (VVT), the standard flex-fuel Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 delivers 290 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Pentastar-powered Grand Cherokee models tow up to 6,200 pounds and get 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway on 4x2 models and 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway on 4x4 models. A driving range of more than 600 miles is best-in-class for gas-powered SUVs.

The available 5.7-liter V-8 packs 360 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque with best-in-class towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. With VVT and Chrysler Group's seamless Fuel Saver cylinder-deactivation technology – V-8 fuel economy is 14 mpg city / 22 mpg highway on 4x2 models, and 14 mpg city / 20 mpg highway on 4x4 models.

All of Jeep Grand Cherokee's engines are mated to Chrysler Group's eight-speed automatic transmission. In addition to enhancing fuel economy, the robust and durable eight-speed transmission delivers quick acceleration and precise, smooth shifting, enhancing ride quality to luxury car levels. An additional benefit is a low crawl ratio of 44.1:1 to aid in climbing over – or through – tough obstacles, when equipped with a two-speed transfer case.

Steering wheel paddle shifters offer improved driver control both on- and off-road, including Electronic Range Select when using Selec-Speed Control in extreme off-road situations.

Another contributor to Grand Cherokee's excellent fuel economy is Eco Mode. Eco Mode optimizes the transmission's shift schedule and, in V-8 models, Fuel Saver cylinder deactivation technology. In addition, the Eco Mode activates Grand Cherokee's air suspension system, lowering it to 'Aero Ride Height' when the vehicle speed exceeds 56 mph.

Eco Mode is automatically engaged upon vehicle startup. A button on the center stack allows driver's to disengage Eco Mode if more spirited performance is desired.

Capability: Legendary, from Jeep

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee features three available 4x4 systems (Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II), an available Quadra-Lift air suspension and a Selec-Terrain traction management system, all of which instill Grand Cherokee with its legendary Jeep capability.

Quadra-Trac I features a single-speed transfer case with full-time four-wheel drive without any switches or levers to pull.

The Quadra-Trac II's two-speed transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and takes corrective action. When wheel slippage is detected, as much as 100 percent of available torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction.

Quadra-Drive II, with a rear Electronic Limited-slip Differential (ELSD), delivers industry-leading tractive capability. The system instantly detects tire slip and smoothly distributes engine torque to tires with traction. In some cases, the vehicle will anticipate low traction and adjust in order to proactively limit or eliminate slip.

Quadra-Lift air suspension system

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee rises above the road and rocks with the rugged, class-exclusive Quadra-Lift air suspension system. The Quadra-Lift system features five height settings for optimum ride performance: •Normal Ride Height (NRH): 8.2 inches of clearance offers improved fuel economy as well as improved aerodynamics during on-road driving

•Off-road 1: Lifts the vehicle an additional 1.1 inches from NRH for added height in clearing obstacles (9.3 inches)

•Off-road 2: Delivers legendary Jeep off-road capability and provides an additional 2.2 inches from NRH for 10.4 inches of ground clearance and up to 20-inches of water fording depth

•Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 1.6 inches from NRH for easy ingress/egress. NRH and Park Mode are driver selectable allowing the driver full control over vehicle ride height

•Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle 0.6 inches from NRH. Aero Mode is controlled by vehicle speed and adjusts for optimal performance and fuel economy. The vehicle will also lower to Aero Mode when in Sport Mode

Quadra-Lift adds up to 3.8-inches of lift span supported by four-corner air springs that provide a cushioned, premium ride. Quadra-Lift operates automatically, or may be controlled manually with console controls.

With the front air dam removed (N/A on Summit) and the available Quadra-Lift air suspension, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee features a 36.1-degree approach angle, a 27.1-degree departure angle and 22.8-degree breakover angle.

Selec-Terrain

In addition to the Quadra-Lift air suspension, the Grand Cherokee's class-leading Selec-Terrain traction control system allows customers to choose the on- and off-road setting for optimum performance. This feature electronically coordinates up to 12 different powertrain, braking and suspension systems, including throttle control, transmission shift, transfer case, Hill-descent Control and Selec-Speed Control.

The Selec-Terrain system offers five different driving conditions to achieve the best driving experience on all terrains: Sand, Mud, Auto, Snow and Rock.

Sport Mode is engaged with the shift lever. Sport Mode provides enhanced on-road 'fun-to-drive' capability.

Selec-Speed Control with Hill-ascent and Hill-descent Control allows drivers to control Grand Cherokee's speed both up and down steep, rugged grades with the steering wheel paddle shifters – without the need for throttle or brake pedals.

Jeep Trail Rated

All 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokees equipped with Off-road groups are Trail Rated. The Jeep Trail Rated badge on the Jeep Grand Cherokee indicates that the vehicle is designed to perform in a variety of challenging off-road conditions, identified by five key consumer-oriented performance categories: traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation and water fording.

Exterior and Interior Design

All trim levels of the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee have a premium look, while simultaneously making each trim level readily identifiable at a glance. Key exterior features include front and rear LED lighting that allow Grand Cherokee to be instantly recognizable, night or day, from a great distance. Standard on Overland and Summit and available on Limited are bi-xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps (adaptive on Summit) that are outlined with signature LED running lamps.

Of course, Grand Cherokee retains Jeep's classic seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches.

The rear of the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee features unique lower fascias for every trim level and a large, aerodynamic rear spoiler.

The award-winning interior of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is clearly one of the most technically advanced, well-crafted interiors in the industry. Immediately noticeable is the Uconnect 5-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen. Controls for radio and climate are found below the screen and have easily identifiable knobs and buttons. Following the center stack down onto the center console reveals a leather-wrapped E-shifter for the eight-speed transmission.

Wrapped in leather, the three-spoke steering wheel features sections of wood on Overland and Summit models. All Grand Cherokee models include standard paddle shifters mounted on the back of the steering wheel.

Laredo and Limited models feature dark wood trim on the dash and doors. Door handle and dash vent bezels, as well as the trim on the center console, feature a slight gold hue to their brushed aluminum look. Premium cloth seating is standard on Laredo while Capri leather seating is standard in Limited.

Overland models have several touches like standard stitched-leather instrument panel and available open-pore wood, which add a distinct touch of modern luxury. Wood trim is also found on the top portion of the leather-wrapped steering wheel. Rear-seat footwell and rear door-pocket ambient lighting highlight the Grand Cherokee's interior design at night.

Grand Cherokee Summit models continue to carry the torch for premium interiors in the SUV segment. Premium Natura-Plus leather seating with heated, ventilated and memory front seats, open-pore wood trim and Copper accents are available on Summit in Morocco Black or Grand Canyon Jeep Brown. New for 2015 is the availability of Argentina Tan interior with black-accent stitching. Also unique to Summit is a premium suede-like material covering the A-pillars and headliner.

Another impressive feature found on Summit models is a nineteen-speaker, 825-watt high-performance Harman Kardon surround sound audio system. This state-of-the-art system features a twelve-channel amplifier, three sub-woofers and surrounds the occupants in high-definition sound.

Overland and Summit models include a CommandView dual-pane sunroof that features a power sunshade (available on Limited). Laredo and Limited models feature an available single-pane sunroof.

For added passenger comfort, rear seats recline 12 degrees. There also is a 12-degree forward angle to allow 24 degrees of variation.

Cargo volume behind the second row measures 36.3 cu. ft. and includes a storage unit with a rechargeable flashlight and grocery hooks on both sides. With the rear seats folded, there is 68.3 cu. ft. of cargo capacity available. Under the cargo floor, the spare tire compartment includes removable dual storage bins for secure storage of muddy gear or other items.

Technology

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers customers an array of innovative advanced technologies for driver safety and passenger enjoyment. Available Uconnect Access, a new Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen, one-shot voice command navigation and a customer customizable multiview cluster display highlight the state-of-the-art features.

Grand Cherokee's unique Uconnect Access system is based on powerful embedded cellular technology that leverages Chrysler Group's strategic partnership with Sprint. Uconnect Access connects vehicle occupants directly with emergency personnel with a push of the '9-1-1' button on the Grand Cherokee's rear-view mirror.

Uconnect's powerful cloud-based voice recognition capability allows customers to keep their hands on the steering wheel and interact with devices easily. The cloud also enables voice texting, in addition to one-shot voice commands for navigation and audio controls.

The user-friendly Uconnect 8.4-inch radio with touchscreen display is available on all models, while the instrument cluster features a high-tech appearance with a customer configurable multiview display, with 7-inch Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) liquid-crystal technology.

A dual-screen Blu-ray DVD rear-seat entertainment system has a nine-inch screen on each front seat back. Capable of playing Blu-ray and traditional DVDs, each screen also has HDMI and RCA inputs so rear passengers can hook up their favorite gaming systems. Combine these systems with Grand Cherokee's available WiFi technology, and gamers can play online, on the go.

The rear seat entertainment system also features two wireless headsets and a remote control.

Safety and Security: Class-leading number of advanced features

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers more than 70 advanced safety and security features – highest in its class. They include features like Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation and Selec-Speed Control, electronic stability control (ESC), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), trailer-sway control (TSC), front-row active head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags and standard seat-mounted side thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

Blind-spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path detection, which aid drivers when changing lanes or in parking lot situations, is also available.

On-road refinement: Premium driving dynamics

Jeep Grand Cherokee is widely known for its outstanding on-road driving dynamics and quietness, thanks in part to its front and rear independent suspension. Variable-rate rear springs deliver improved on-road handling and comfort that complements the vehicle's off-road capability. Premium on-road manners are enhanced with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone.

The independent front and rear suspension features isolated front and rear suspension cradles along with variable-rate rear springs to deliver improved on-road handling and comfort while complementing the vehicle's legendary off-road capability. The rear suspension also allows the spare tire to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath.

Grand Cherokee's steering also has been carefully calibrated for the right amount of assistance whether cruising the parking lot or a twisty two-lane mountain road. Electrohydraulic assistance is used on EcoDiesel and Pentastar V-6 models.

Manufacturing: Built in Detroit

The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee is built at the 3-million-square-foot Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, which has been the site of Grand Cherokee production since its introduction in 1992.

by Jeep

Jeep has been a registered trademark of Chrysler, and an automobile marque for numerous years. Though the Land Rover is a very close running mate, the Jeep is the oldest off-road vehicle brand.

Before 1984, the Cherokee moniker had been attached to a sportier version of Jeep's Wagoneer, a vehicle that had remained mostly unchanged since its debut in the early 1960s. The Cherokee Wagoneer was a huge, four-door wagon, truck based, with four-wheel drive. Very similar to the way American automakers downsized many of their vehicles in the previous decade, Jeep downsized one of its nameplates in 1984, the Cherokee.

The original Cherokee model was introduced in 1974, and shared many features with the Wagoneer, including engine choices and dimensions. The Cherokee was originally available as only a two-door, and the price was also a lot more than the pricey Wagoneer. In 1977, a four-door Cherokee was introduced to the lineup.

Keeping only the name, the 1984 Cherokee was completely set apart from its predecessor. The all-new Cherokee featured a shorter wheelbase, more than 7 inches less than the earlier model, at 101.4 inches. The new model also featured an overall length of 165.3 inches, a total of 21 inches less than the earlier model. The weight of the 1984 Cherokee was now 3,100, more than 1,000 lbs less than before. Both two and four-door body styles were made available, and now the Cherokee featured much better fuel economy and mileage, along with easier maneuverability, either on-road or off.

The new Cherokee featured strong wheel well flares, along with a tall greenhouse that gave great visibility to both passengers and drivers. The Cherokee featured seating for five, though it was very snug for three adults to fit in the backseat. The interior carried a very simple dash and control layout.

For this year, the trim levels offered were the base Cherokee, the sporty Chief, and the much more sumptuous Pioneer. The opulent Pioneer came complete with carpeting, additional instrument panel gauges, a rear window wiper/washer and a full center console. The Chief featured blackout exterior trim, white-lettered tires and hood striping.

Either four or six-cylinder power was the driving force behind the Jeep Cherokee, and the 2.5-liter four cylinder engine inhaled its fuel and through a one-barrel carburetor and achieved 105 horsepower. Supplied by Chevy, an optional 2.8-liter, two-barrel V6 achieved 115 horsepower. These powerplants were good, but it would be several years until a serious engine would come from Chevy. The V6 engine offered three transmission choices, a standard four-speed manual, the optional five-speed manual and an optional three-speed automatic. The four-cylinder engine was limited to the four-speed manual as its gearbox.

Jeep offered not just one, but two 4WD systems for the Jeep Cherokee, 'Command-Trac' and the 'Select-Trac' system. The Command-Trac was a part-time, ‘shift-on-the-fly unit' and the Select –Trac system allowed the option of full-time 4WD operation. A solid axle that suspended by coil springs and four links, or a ‘Quadra-Link' front suspensions design was also featured in tribute to Cherokee's reputation for off-road prowess.

Nearly 78,000 Cherokee's were sold during its first year in production, and the public raved over the all-new design.

For the second year of production, the Cherokee family expanded to include the Laredo trim level. The Laredo featured most of the same features of the Pioneer, but with additional upgrades such as most luxurious interior materials, alloy wheels, pinstripes and chrome grille treatment.

Also new for 1985 was the addition of front headrests and passenger assist handles to the Cherokee. For customers that didn't need the capabilities of for-wheel drive, two-wheel drive versions were made available. Keyless entry and a Renault-sourced, new four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine was offered for this year as well.

In the 1986 model year, a newly redesigned and much more powerful four-cylinder was made standard and the old carburetor with fuel injection was replaced and now pumped 117 horsepower, and advancement of 12 horses from the previous motor. Featuring a much more modern induction setup, the '86 Cherokee now had a much smoother operation along with easier starting capabilities.

A brand new 'Off-Highway Vehicle' package debuted for this year, and was aimed at off-road enthusiasts. This package included heavy-duty suspension components, larger tires, tow hooks, skid plates, a 4 :10 rear axle ratio and much higher ground clearance.

In 1987, extreme power became an option once Jeep got rid of the 2.8 V6 engine and replaced it with an impressive 4.0-liter, inline six-cylinder engine of Jeep's design on the option list. The new 'Power-Tech Six' could get 177 horsepower, and took the Cherokee from 0-60mph in just under 9 seconds. The new Cherokee could tow much more now, actually rated at 5,000 lbs. Achieving 121 horsepower, the 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine was updated for an additional four horsepower.

The earlier three-cog unit was replaced with a brand new electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. This new automatic featured selectable shift modes, power and comfort. The power shift provided better performance through higher-rpm up-shifts and faster downshifts, while the comfort mode was a much more relaxed shift, and also much more economical in its operation. The four-speed manual was deleted, and considered to be very basic in its offerings.

For the 1987 model year the Cherokee also received the option of two-tone paint, while the interior now showcased new door trim panels along with stowage bins.

Halfway through the model year, an all-new loaded-up Limited four-door model was introduced, with nearly every luxurious piece of fanciness in it. This limited model featured all of the bells and whistles as standard equipment that made the other models look staid in comparison. A powerful, 4.0-liter inline six engine was joined with Selec-Trac in the Limited model. The model could be identified by its color-keyed bumpers, gold pinstripes and gold wheels, along with leather seats, keyless entry, an eight-speak sound system and power everything in the Limited, along with much more.

At the same time, the other Jeep Cherokee models received very limited changes that included plaid seats in the Laredo and updated blackout trim on the Chief Cherokee.

For the 1988 model year anew two-door Limited was introduced at the same time that the unloved turbo-diesel engine option was deleted. A new eight-slot grille substituted the former 10-slot unit for the '88 Jeep Cherokee.

New for this year was flashy chrome trim on the Laredo models along with body-side cladding. A very sport-two door model was introduced for 1988 in an effort to appeal to all interests and spending markets. New alloy wheels and unique graphics were added to the sport, which aided those who wanted a hip vehicle without doling out lots of cash.

For 1989 the big news for consumers was the availability on Cherokee models equipped with the 4.0-liter engine, automatic transmission and Selec-Trac, was the availability of a four-wheel, ABS system. Whether the Jeep Cherokee was in 2WD or 3WD, the ABS system operated either way. Also new for 1989 was power steering being made optional, along with the standard 13.5-gallon fuel tank being replaced with a 20-gallon unit.

For the 1990 model year not many changes were made, though safety was improved dramatically as new three-point seatbelts were fitted for all outboard occupants. The Limited received a new overhead console that featured a compass, an outside thermometer along with storage compartments for a garage door controller and additional room for the passenger's sunglasses.

In the 1991, the Jeep Cherokee received a special treat in boosted power to both the four and six-cylinder engine as a new multi-point fuel-injection system aided the engine into pumping out 130 horsepower. This was a jump of nine horses singe the previous year's model. The six cylinder engine now achieved 190 horsepower and could achieve 0-60 mph in barely nine seconds.

For this same year the Pioneer Cherokee was deleted and a four-door Sport model was unveiled to join alongside the two-door Sport. In this same year a brand new Briarwood model was introduced for 1991. In this same year Cherokee introduced all-new double-sided keys, optional illuminated entry systems, and highlighted under-hood service points.

The following model year the base Cherokee model received carpeting as a standard feature while the Jeep Laredo was given the option of optional leather seating, much like the opulent Limited model. Other than these few changes, not much was updated for this year.

For 1993 the Cherokee line downsized from only five trim levels to three, the base, Sport and the all-new Country. The '93 Jeep Cherokee Country came with champagne-colored lower body, bumpers and fender flares, along with all of the extravagant features of the now deleted Limited model. Sport models now received a two-tone treatment that added black on the lower body sides. Also added to all model was a long-life, stainless steel exhaust system that aided in lowering costs for owners.

In 1994 all-new safety updates were made that included side-impact beams placed in the doors, while the roof featured new crush resistance along with a center, high-mounted stoplight placed on top of the lift-gate. The AC on the '94 Jeep Cherokee now utilized CFC-free refrigerant. In this same year the champagne color option was updated to an availability of silver as a secondary color, for those consumers that were tired of the old standard color. The entry-level Cherokee received the 'SE' appellation in an attempt to add more appeal to this model for consumers.

Thought the following year's model looked very similar to the version 11 years prior, the Jeep Cherokee continued to be a trendy choice for consumers that were searching for a very capable SUV in both dimension and expenditure. For 1995 the main changes were the availability of an automatic transmission for the four-cylinder SE, and with the addition of a driver's side airbag.

For this same year, both the Sport and Country models held steady with the 4.0-liter, six-cylinder engine that was joined to either a five-speed manual or the four-speed automatic gearbox. For 1995 a fantastic array of colors were added that now included Aqua Pearl and Moss Green.

In 1996 the Jeep Cherokee received only a few minor updates that included both the four-cylinder and six-cylinder being pumped up to run less obtrusively and smoother, which of course appealed to all consumers. The inline six engine now generated its power at lower rpm, which made it even more responsive, whether accelerating from a light, or when towing a trailer up a steed grade.

Once again, safety was once again at the top of the list for year, and the electrical system was upgraded through the heavy-duty alternator and battery. To reduced to chance of an accident, an all-new automatic transmission/brake pedal interlock was introduced which required to drive to apply the brake when moving the brake from the gear selector out of Park. For this same year, the engine in the Jeep Cherokee also received a much stiffer block, along with new powertrain control module and new aluminum pistons. Entering into its own 13th model year, the Jeep Cherokee also introduced two new colors; Bright Jade and Stone White for 1996.

Finally in 1997, the Jeep Cherokee received a pretty hefty facelift that involved a $215 million update that smoothed both the front and rear ends out, while the interior was revised with reductions in harshness, vibration and noise. Though not many visible changes were made, the new Cherokee now featured softened corners on both the tail and nose along with wheel-well flares than blended into the ends of the bumper.

To neutralize the noise of wind, the front vent windows were taken out, while the larger side-view mirrors, new wheels, updated body-side models, optional deep-tint glass and a center high-mounted stop lamp were added to the all-new 1997 Jeep Cherokee.

The interior of the Cherokee featured updates on the interior as well, and these included a more efficient cabin that had a new dash that came with a passenger airbag, updated gauges and a new center stack with easier ability to use controls for the stereo; that was now updated with CD player AND cassette. An updated climate control was also introduced in this year that eradicated quieter the noise and squeaks of the previous model. Along with all of these updates, the '97 Cherokee also received new lighted power mirror and window switches, along with new door panels, a trip computer for the overhead console along with a new center console that featured incorporated cup-holders.

New or reconditioned standing dies and tighter tolerances were utilized in the Jeep to improve build quality, and at the same time, more testing was done on the 1997 Cherokee. Other than these tests and the electrical system being upgraded through connectors and a lack of wiring, the Jeep was basically left alone for this model year.

The Limited once again jumped on board the Cherokee lineup in 1998 and replaced the Country as the top-of-the line Cherokee. The Classic model was debuted for this year and took the spot in between the Sport and the Limited. The Classic was released into the lineup with moldings and color-keyed bumpers. For this same year the Sport received a roof rack, AC, alloy wheel and power mirrors. A new trio of colors were introduced with the 1998 Cherokee; and these included, Emerald Green, Chili Pepper Red and Deep Amethyst.

For the following year, only a few changes were made to the Jeep Cherokee. New color-keyed bumpers and grille were added to the Sport model while the Limited received an all-new Sentry Key anti-theft system and optional heated front seats. The Limited also received improved engine efficiency due to updated electronics and an all-new exhaust catalyst.

The Jeep Cherokee received a much more polished depiction of the 4.0-liter inline six cylinder engine for the 2000 model year. The all-new engine featured a much quieter and cleaner system that now met Low Emission Vehicle standards. Now joined to the new six in SE (if ordered) was a brand-new five-speed manual gearbox that was updated with advanced shift quality in both base and Sport models. Also new for this year were two more colors; Silverstone Pearls and Patriot Blue.

The Cherokee Classic and the Limited both now featured a four-speed automatic as a standard feature for 2000. The Limited became even more ornate in this year and featured silver alloy wheels, chrome highlights on the grille, headlight bezels and rear license plate brow. All of these new characteristics set the Limited even more apart from the standard run-of-the-mill Cherokee models.

2001 was the final year the Jeep Cherokee and not much was updated expect the Steel Blue color replaced the Desert Sand color while the 2.5-liter four cylinder engine was deleted.

by Jessican Donaldson