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| 1997 Jeep Cherokee Sport interior. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
A 5-speed manual was the standard shifter with a 4-speed automatic available. Both were well suited to either engine. Power was transmitted down to either Command-Trac part-time 4-wheel drive, actuated by a console-mounted lever, or Selec-Trac full-time 4-wheel drive. The first, a more basic off-road package, is preferred by serious mud and dirt fans while the full-time system was designed for those who wanted their vehicle to act automatically on their behalf when more traction was needed. The Selec-Trac system is still very capable off-road however.
The new 1997 model fixed a couple of irritating glitches the earlier SUV experienced starting with the addition of an upgraded HVAC fan and improved ducting, resulting in a 30% improvement in ventilation. Improvements made to the door seals went further to keep interior air in and road noise out, while wind noise was also reduced from previous Cherokees.
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| 1998 Jeep Cherokee. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
Model year 1997 saw three recalls, the first which in extreme cases could result in brake failure, the second which could cause the airbag to not work or deploy without warning and the last causing improper fuel gauge readings. In 1998 a recall affected the front seatbelts while another could result in a loss of power brake assist with no prior warning. In 1999 loose electrodes on the spark plugs could result in poorer emissions ratings while 2000 and 2001 model year 6-cylinder Cherokees could experience engine fires resulting from an intake and exhaust manifold debris problem.
But don't let the recalls worry you too much as all should have been fixed on warranty by the previous owner. Generally Cherokees are pretty reliable, improving steadily as they reached the end of their tenure. Overall the SUV stayed so long in Jeep's lineup because it sold well, the result of a relatively satisfied owner base. On the used market it's a good bet for a decent price, especially if trekking the wilderness is your style.
Specifications:
- 1997 Expected Price*: $7,100 - $12,575 (120,000 to 127,500 km**)
- 1998 Expected Price*: $8,375 - $14,850 (97,500 to 105,000 km**)
- 1999 Expected Price*: $9,450 - $16,875 (75,000 to 82,500 km**)
- 2000 Expected Price*: $11,325 - $17,200 (52,500 to 60,000 km**)
- 2001 Expected Price*: $12,475 - $18,075 (37,500 to 45,000 km**)
- Body Type: 5-door SUV, body-on-frame
- Layout: front engine, part-time 4WD
- Base Engine: 125 hp, 150 lb-f of torque, 2.5-L I-4
- Opt Engine: 190 hp, 225 lb-ft of torque, 4.0-L I-6
- Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt ABS)
- Curb Weight: 1,351 - 1,522 kg (2,979 - 3,355 lb)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Cap (seat up/down): 932 / 1,954 L (32.9 / 69.0 cu ft)
- Ground Clearance: 198 - 206 mm (7.8 - 8.1 in)
- Towing Capacity (man-auto):522 - 2,268 kg (1,150 - 5,000 lb)
- Fuel Economy: 13.8 / 11.8 L/100 km (17 / 20 mpg) (I-6 5-spd)
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 84/115,000 powertrain
- Web Site: www.jeep.ca
- * Used vehicle prices sourced from VMRCanada.com.
- ** Mileage averages based on approximately 20,000 km travel per year (calculated in 2003 model year)
