The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) is a sport utility vehicle that was manufactured and marketed by Jeep in the United States from 1983 through 2001, with global availability continuing until 2014. This vehicle was offered in two- or four-door configurations, accommodating up to five passengers, and came with front-engine, rear- or four-wheel drive options.
Noteworthy for being the first American off-road vehicle with a unibody design, the XJ Cherokee shared its name with the original full-size Cherokee SJ model. It was also significant for being Jeep's first all-new design since the 1963 SJ Wagoneer. Additionally, the XJ Cherokee served as the mechanical foundation for the Jeep Comanche (MJ) pickup truck, which was produced from 1985 to 1992.
Designated as Sportwagons by Jeep, the XJs are considered the precursors to modern SUVs, a term that had not been popularized at that time. The XJ Cherokee's design revolutionized the SUV market, causing other automakers to notice a shift in consumer preferences from traditional cars to more utilitarian and versatile SUVs. General Motors also entered the compact SUV segment around the same time with their Chevrolet S-10 Blazer and GMC S-15 Jimmy, which were initially available only in two-door versions.
Key Points:
- The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) was produced from 1983 to 2001 in the U.S., globally available until 201
