New Jeep Cherokee arrives in Ireland

22 May 2002: Chrysler’s new Jeep Cherokee has been launched in Ireland in four versions - the new Commerical 2.5-litre CRD 16V 5-door 141 bhp, 34,546 euros; the 2.5 CRD Sport Passenger, 44,855 euros; and 2.5-litre CRD Passenger Limited, 51,937 euros; and the 3.7 V6 Passenger Limited, 53,220 euros.

The new Cherokee is the latest version of the legendary Jeep brand which has built up a world-wide reputation since Jeep production began some 61 years ago.

The new 3.7-litre petrol injection engine is derived from the 4.7-litre V8 available on the Grand Cherokee, and has automatic transmission as standard. The diesel is a completely revised unit from Italian enginemakers VM, who have supplied diesel engines to Jeep in Europe for years.

All models have air conditioning, ABS, electric windows and a CD player. Overall dimensions have been increased, including height and wheelbase.

Chrysler Jeep Ireland says that a price/value comparison has the car measure favourably with competition from brands such as Toyota, Isuzu, Landrover and Mitsubishi.

“We believe it also stands above other 4x4s because it combines the legendary Jeep off-road capabilities with superior on-road driveability and comfort,” David Burdett of Chrysler Jeep Ireland said at the launch.

A new 2.7-litre diesel engine derived from a Mercedes unit used in the E-, M- and C-Class cars has also been introduced to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, replacing the former 3.1-litre diesel. The 5 cylinder CRD engine offers an increase from 138bhp to 161bhp, a torque increase of 4%, 0-62mph in 11.2 seconds and a combined cycle fuel consumption increase from 20.7mpg to 29.2mpg.

May 2002