Only a year after releasing the 2.0-litre diesel Jeep Cherokee, Jeep has decided to upgrade it for us power thirsty Brits, meaning we now have the option of a 2.2L four cylinder MultiJet diesel engine in its place.
The 2015 model is available with either 185bhp or 200bhp, we were lucky enough to get our hands on the 200 model, although it was a left-hand drive model so it took a little getting used to on British roads.
Does the extra power make a difference?
One of the only real criticisms you could lay at the door of the previous model is that it felt like it took too long to “haul ass” (well it is an American car). Well this model adds a welcome (25% more) kick, although when you put your foot down it still feels a touch hesitant, but it’s only a touch. The 2015 Jeep 2.2 can reach 62mph in 8.5seconds, which is decent. Once it’s moving and the revs approach the car’s 440Nm torque sweet spot of 2500rpm, the response is satisfying strong as the car moves automatically through its 9 gears with a buttery smoothness.
We never got a chance to push the car on the country lanes we drove down though or get anywhere near its top speed of 128mph, but that’s not the point, the new engine delivers the acceleration that was lacking the first time around.
Overtaking the car in front is a total breeze, and that’s what counts.
What else has it got then?
The standard version is generously equipped with the soft leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, UCONNECT 8.4in touchscreen navigation and multimedia system, reversing camera and assist, keyless ignition, Qi Standard wireless charging, steering wheel controls, Bluetooth and heated seats. Nice.
Should I buy one?
There’s strong competition in this vehicle class, particularly from the likes of BMW’s X3, the Nissan Qashqai (although it’s a Nissan), then of course there’s fierce rival Land Rover with the Discovery Sport, so choosing isn’t going to be easy unless you have a strong brand preference. At this level, price is unlikely to be a major factor and at around £36K depending on options, Jeep offer a lot of vehicle for the money and we found it a pleasure to drive. It has a secure ride, comfortable driving position and offers the style and luxury you can expect from a modern mid-size SUV, perhaps even a little more so. The fifth-generation Jeep Cherokee has an iconic silhouette and the design of this car is eye catching in all of its nine colours, although we preferred the brilliant black crystal pearlcoat.
It provides a great driving experience and has pretty much all of the mod-cons you could hope for. So yes, the Jeep Cherokee 2.2L MultiJet II Turbo 2015 is well worth a look-in.
For more info, head here: www.jeep.co.uk/cherokee
VITALS
Price from around £33,000
Engine 2.2L 4 Cylinder Turbo Diesel
Gearbox 9-speed auto/paddle controlled manualPower 200bhp
0-60 8 seconds
Top speed 127mph
Fuel Economy 49.6mpg
CO2 Emissions 150g/km
Weight 1878kg
