Jeep Cherokee Sport 2.5 Litre Turbo Diesel Manual PDF Road Test Report

The new Jeep Cherokee that debuted late last year not only presented a bold new look, it also introduced two new engines, new suspension and steering, and a number of new features. In this report we test the Sport version, powered by the all-new 2.5 litre DOHC direct injection common rail turbo diesel engine built by DaimlerChrysler. The previous diesel engine was an Italian-made 2.5 litre OHV unit with indirect mechanical fuel injection. The Sport also comes with a 3.7 litre SOHC V6 that produces more power and torque than the previous 4.0 litre OHV in-line six. The more upmarket Cherokee Limited comes only with the V6 petrol engine.

There’s no choice of transmissions – if you buy the V6 you get an automatic, if you buy the diesel you get a manual. The diesel model comes with Command- Trac part-time 4WD while the two V6 models have Selec-Trac (selectable) full-time 4WD. Prices start at $43,990 for the Sport V6, the Sport diesel is $1,000 more at $44,990 and the Limited V6 costs $47,990. Suspension changes include a switch from rear leaf springs to links and coils and a revised coil spring independent front suspension. There’s also a new aluminium front diff housing, designed for use with the IFS. A rack and pinion steering system replaces the old recirculating ball system. Though this latest Cherokee’s braking system retains a front disc/rear drum set-up, both the discs and drums have been enlarged for greater cooling capacity. The Limited model’s ABS has been refined and electronic brake force distribution introduced.

Equipment levels in the Sport version aren’t quite as extensive as those in the Limited, but it still scores pretty well. In addition to items already mentioned, it has dual front airbags, air conditioning, power windows, remote central locking, engine immobiliser, stereo system with single CD player, exterior mirrors that are heated, electrically adjustable and fully foldable, a tilt steering column and roof rails. The Limited adds ABS, alloy wheels, leather trim, power adjustable front seats, an alarm, front fog lamps, an overhead console with trip computer, a cargo compartment cover, a higher grade sound system with 6-stack CD changer, cruise control and front seat map pockets. Though the Cherokee is quite a competent off-road performer in standard form, there is the option of an ‘Off Road Group’ pack which includes heavier duty tyres, and fuel tank and transfer case skid plates, for $1,090.

These latest Cherokees to some extent at least, re-invent the traditional Jeep look, with the front end featuring a very prominent seven-slot grille flanked by round headlights. The body coloured wheel arches protrude a lot more than on the previous model and the new body is also taller. For greater cargo space, the spare wheel has been moved outside and is mounted on the swing-out lower tailgate. The upper section is glass and it can be opened via the remote, or by exerting gentle pressure on the lower gate release handle. Access to the now usefully larger rear load area is easy with this system, however like most swing-out tailgates, a lot of room is needed behind the vehicle to fully open it. Occupant space and comfort is still much the same as we reported for the previous model.

Up front there’s a reasonable amount of legroom, but the footwell is cramped, leaving nowhere for drivers of the manual version to comfortably rest their left foot. Seat comfort is a personal thing, however for me, the cushion was too short to provide effective thigh support and the backrest shaping didn’t suit me. Rear leg space is reasonable and seat comfort rates as average, but the seat width is a bit narrow to take three adults and the small rear door openings make access awkward. As is usual for a diesel engine, best performance is available within a specific rev range and this new DOHC unit gives its best from 2,000 to around 3,500 rpm.

Below or above those speeds, there’s not a lot of urgency about its response. Nevertheless, this model (which is also heavier) shaved 1.4 seconds off the 0-100 km/h time recorded by the previous diesel we tested. It was 1.2 seconds faster from 0-80 km/h and took 0.6 seconds less to cover the standing 400 metres. We also recorded better fuel consumption figures – 1.6 litres/100 km better in city running, 1.1 better in highway-type conditions and 1.3 litres/100 more economical overall. SUMMARY: With its latest technology diesel engine giving more power and better fuel economy, and the new suspension and steering providing an improved on-road driving performance, the latest series Cherokee Sport diesel is a more attractive proposition than the previous model. Though the two Cherokee V6 petrol models will provide stronger performance, plus the convenience of automatic transmission and selectable full-time 4WD, the combination of a diesel engine and manual transmission will generally prove superior when the going gets tough, and will also save you money on fuel bills.

Download Jeep Cherokee Sport 2.5 Litre Turbo Diesel Manual PDF Road Test Report