Jeep Cherokee (XJ)

The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) is a compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) manufactured and marketed by Jeep from 1984 to 2001 in North America, and continuing production elsewhere until 2014. It is credited as being the first sport utility vehicle to be offered in a four-door body style, predating the 1985 Toyota 4Runner, and is widely considered to have pioneered the modern compact SUV market segment.

The XJ Cherokee replaced the Jeep Wagoneer as Jeep's compact SUV offering. While the Wagoneer continued to be produced, it was marketed as a premium, full-size SUV. The Cherokee was designed to be smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient than its predecessors, and was offered in both two-door and four-door configurations.

Key features of the XJ Cherokee included its unibody construction, its lightweight design, and its availability with either a part-time or full-time four-wheel drive system. Engine options varied throughout its production run, but commonly included inline-four and inline-six cylinder engines. The 4.0L inline-six is particularly renowned for its reliability and power.

The XJ Cherokee was available in a variety of trim levels, offering different levels of features and equipment. It became popular for both on-road and off-road use, with its compact size and capable four-wheel drive system making it a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts.

Production of the XJ Cherokee in North America ended in 2001, but production continued in other countries, notably in China, where it was produced by Beijing Jeep until 2014. The XJ Cherokee remains a popular vehicle in the used car market and is highly regarded for its durability, simplicity, and off-road capability.