Built from 1984 to 2001, the Jeep Cherokee XJ has outlived trends, tech, and even some of its competitors. It’s one of the rare vehicles that’s as beloved today as it was in its prime. With its unibody construction, bulletproof engine, and boxy good looks, the XJ balanced daily drivability with rugged 4×4 capability. Here’s why the Jeep Cherokee XJ has earned its place in the automotive hall of fame and why we still can’t get enough of it.
It Was Built Like a Tank, But Handled Like a Car
The Cherokee XJ was one of the first SUVs to use unibody construction, blending the strength of a traditional off-roader with the road manners of a sedan. It was surprisingly nimble for a 4×4, yet tough enough to handle serious abuse on the trails. This combo of rigidity, balance, and comfort made it incredibly versatile, equally at home on a highway commute or crawling through rocky terrain. It was utility without compromise, and that was rare.
The 4.0L Inline-Six Was Practically Immortal
If there was a heart to the XJ, it was the 4.0-liter inline-six engine. Known for its torque, simplicity, and longevity, this motor could run forever with basic maintenance. It’s common to see these engines logging over 300,000 miles without major issues. Built with cast iron and a bulletproof bottom end, it wasn’t flashy, but it was as reliable as sunrise. For off-roaders and commuters alike, that kind of consistency is invaluable.
Its Boxy Design Never Went Out of Style
The XJ’s angular shape was more than just good looks—it was smart design. The upright windshield, flat roof, and squared-off rear gave it excellent visibility and maximized interior space. It looked rugged because it was, and it aged with grace. In a sea of swoopy crossovers, the XJ’s utilitarian aesthetic still turns heads. That boxy silhouette became iconic, showing the world that form and function can exist beautifully together.
It Was Perfect for Off-Roading Straight From the Factory
While most SUVs needed aftermarket help to become trail-worthy, the XJ came ready to rock. Its short wheelbase, solid front and rear axles, and generous ground clearance made it a capable crawler right out of the box. Add in the available Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4WD systems, and it could tackle mud, snow, or rocks with ease. For a factory ride, it was impressively trail-ready and earned the trust of off-roaders everywhere.
You Could Fix It With Basic Tools
The Jeep Cherokee XJ was designed in an era when cars were still mechanical first, digital second. That meant fewer sensors, less wiring, and more simplicity. Almost everything under the hood could be serviced in your own driveway. Parts were cheap and plentiful, and even novice mechanics could perform common repairs. This DIY-friendly design made the XJ an affordable and approachable entry into off-roading and classic SUV ownership.
It Was One of the First True Compact SUVs
Before the term “crossover” even existed, the XJ was setting the standard. It packed full-size utility into a compact footprint, giving drivers the best of both worlds. You could navigate city streets or wooded trails without feeling overburdened. It didn’t drive like a truck, but it sure worked like one. Jeep effectively invented the segment, and no one’s done it quite the same since.
The Aftermarket Support Was—and Still Is—Insane
Few vehicles have inspired the kind of aftermarket devotion the XJ has. Whether you wanted a 3-inch lift, rock sliders, roof racks, or full-blown overlanding setups, there was always an upgrade ready. Even now, two decades after production ended, countless companies still make XJ-specific parts. The support from the off-road community and parts suppliers ensures these Jeeps remain customizable, relevant, and trail-ready for years to come.
It Had Real Manual Locking Hubs (On Some Trims)
Certain trims of the XJ featured manual locking hubs—a mechanical, no-nonsense system that let you truly control your 4WD. While today’s SUVs rely on computers and sensors, the XJ gave drivers a hands-on experience. You had to get out and engage the system, but that only added to the rugged charm. It was simple, reliable, and offered true control when the terrain turned gnarly.
It Was a Family Hauler and a Trail Rig All in One
Need a vehicle for groceries, road trips, and off-road fun? The XJ was your answer. Its spacious interior and 60/40 rear seats made it easy to pack for a weekend getaway or haul gear for a day on the trail. Unlike most SUVs that do one job well, the XJ could wear multiple hats. That versatility made it a staple for families, campers, and adventurers alike.
It Had Legendary Towing for Its Size
The XJ wasn’t a full-size SUV, but it punched above its weight when it came to towing. Properly equipped, it could haul up to 5,000 pounds—a number that put some trucks to shame. Whether you were pulling a small trailer, a jet ski, or extra gear for a weekend trip, the XJ delivered without complaining. That towing capacity gave it real-world utility far beyond the average compact SUV.
It Was Actually Affordable
When new, the Cherokee XJ offered one of the best value propositions in the SUV market. You got real 4WD, a powerful engine, and solid construction for a fraction of the cost of some competitors. Even years later, used XJs were some of the best bargains in the 4×4 world. That affordability made it accessible to off-road newbies and budget-conscious drivers who still wanted to hit the trails.
The Interior Was Built for Utility, Not Flash
The inside of an XJ wasn’t about flash or frills—it was about function. You got a no-nonsense dash, chunky switches, and just enough comfort to get the job done. It wasn’t luxurious, but it was durable and logical. Everything was where it needed to be, and nothing felt like an afterthought. That utilitarian vibe has aged surprisingly well, and now it feels refreshingly straightforward compared to today’s screen-heavy cabins.
It Had an Iconic Grille You Could Spot a Mile Away
The seven-slot grille is a Jeep signature, but the way it was framed on the XJ—with rectangular headlights and a flat fascia—made it instantly recognizable. It looked serious, boxy, and ready for anything. You could spot it coming down the road from a mile away, and it still gets nods from fellow Jeep fans today. That front-end styling is pure nostalgia and still works decades later.
It Came in Dozens of Cool Trims and Special Editions
Over its long production run, the XJ was offered in a variety of trims, each with its own style and capability level. From the base SE to the high-end Limited, there was a Cherokee for everyone. Jeep even dropped some fun special editions like the Briarwood and Country models. These variations gave buyers more personality and made the XJ a collectible classic in many forms.
It Was an International Success
The XJ wasn’t just an American favorite—it found love around the world. Built under license in countries like China and India, the Cherokee was used by militaries, government fleets, and adventurers across continents. Its reputation for toughness and reliability translated globally. The XJ’s international footprint added to its legacy and helped it become one of Jeep’s most successful global vehicles ever.
It Was Used by Police, Military, and Rescue Teams
Need proof that the XJ was built for serious work? Look no further than the agencies that used it. Police departments, park rangers, border patrol, and even military forces relied on the Cherokee for patrol duties and emergency response. It could navigate rough terrain, carry equipment, and keep running in harsh conditions. That kind of trust speaks volumes about its capabilities.
It Could Take a Beating and Keep Going
The XJ earned its toughness the hard way. Owners routinely pushed these Jeeps through deep water, rocky trails, rollovers, and worse—and they just kept ticking. Rust might get them eventually, but mechanically, they were hard to kill. Stories of XJs surviving wild off-road disasters and still limping home are common in Jeep forums. That indestructible reputation is a big part of why they’re still beloved.
It’s One of the Most Recognizable Jeeps Ever Made
Even among Jeep’s deep lineup, the Cherokee XJ holds a special place. It helped define the SUV segment and earned a spot in pop culture through movies, games, and real-world adventures. Its silhouette is instantly recognizable, and it continues to turn heads at Jeep events and on city streets. There are flashier Jeeps, but few are as universally known and admired as the XJ.
It Launched a Million Off-Road Addictions
For countless off-road enthusiasts, the XJ was their gateway drug. It was affordable, easy to modify, and ready for trails. That accessibility meant first-time wheelers learned the ropes behind its wheel. It inspired countless upgrades, busted knuckles, and epic camping trips. The XJ didn’t just build skills—it built a lifestyle. It’s the Jeep that made people fall in love with dirt, mud, and everything in between.
It Refuses to Die
Even though production ended in 2001, the XJ is still alive and kicking. Drive through any small town or hit a trail system and you’re bound to see one—sometimes beat up, sometimes pristine, but always still moving. Their numbers may dwindle, but their presence never fades. That refusal to die, that ability to keep going against the odds, is what makes the Jeep Cherokee XJ a legend.