The Jeep Cherokee II (XJ) 3-door 4.0i Sport Automatic, produced between 1999 and 2001, represents a final iteration of the highly successful XJ Cherokee platform. This particular variant, equipped with the 4.0-liter inline-six engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground in the Cherokee lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and affordability. It was positioned above the base models with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, but below the more expensive trims with optional four-wheel drive and enhanced features. The XJ Cherokee, renowned for its robust construction and off-road prowess, had been a mainstay of the Jeep brand since its introduction in 1984, and this final 3-door version continued that legacy, albeit with a focus on a more compact and accessible package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Cherokee |
| Generation | Cherokee II (XJ) 3-door |
| Type | 4.0 i Sport (192 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 130.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 192 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 318 Nm @ 3000 rpm (234.54 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3956 cm3 (241.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 98.4 mm (3.87 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.4 l (12.05 US qt | 10.03 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1475 kg (3251.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2223 kg (4900.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 748 kg (1649.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 932 l (32.91 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1954 l (69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 4254 mm (167.48 in.) |
| Width | 1763 mm (69.41 in.) |
| Height | 1624 mm (63.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2576 mm (101.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1473 mm (57.99 in.) |
| Rear track | 1473 mm (57.99 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Hydraulic Power Steering |
| Tires size | 225/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cherokee 4.0i Sport was the 4.0-liter (3956 cc) AMC inline-six engine, a powerplant renowned for its durability and smooth power delivery. This engine, originally designed by American Motors Corporation (AMC) and later inherited by Chrysler, featured a cast-iron block and cylinder head, a two-valve-per-cylinder configuration, and a multi-port fuel injection system. The 4.0L engine produced 192 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 234 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. The automatic transmission was a Chrysler-built 42RE four-speed unit, chosen for its reliability and suitability for both on-road driving and moderate off-road use. While not as sophisticated as some contemporary transmissions, the 42RE provided smooth shifts and adequate performance for the engine’s characteristics. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration were standard for the XJ Cherokee.
Driving Characteristics
The 192 hp and 234 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 4.0-liter engine and automatic transmission provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was respectable for the era, but the automatic transmission did slightly diminish the engine’s potential compared to the available five-speed manual. The 42RE transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for cruising and towing, rather than outright speed. In real-world driving, the Cherokee 4.0i Sport felt comfortable and capable on the highway, with sufficient power for passing maneuvers. Off-road, the rear-wheel-drive configuration and the engine’s low-end torque made it a competent performer on moderate trails. Compared to the higher-output trims, the 4.0i Sport offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing comfort and fuel economy over raw power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cherokee 4.0i Sport typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power steering, AM/FM stereo, cloth upholstery, and basic instrumentation. The interior was functional and durable, reflecting the Cherokee’s utilitarian roots. Optional extras included a cassette or CD player, upgraded sound systems, power windows and locks, and a sunroof. The exterior featured standard steel wheels with wheel covers, though alloy wheels were available as an option. The “Sport” designation indicated a slightly more aggressive appearance package, often including unique badging and trim details.
Chassis & Braking
The XJ Cherokee utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup offered a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for most driving conditions, the drum brakes on the rear were a point of criticism compared to the all-disc setups found on some competing SUVs. The Cherokee’s relatively simple chassis design contributed to its durability and ease of maintenance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cherokee 4.0i Sport Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and capable SUV. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliable powertrain. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission dulled the engine’s performance and that the rear drum brakes were a compromise. Compared to the four-cylinder models, the 4.0i Sport offered a significant improvement in power and refinement. Compared to the higher-output trims, it provided a more affordable entry point into the Cherokee lineup, appealing to buyers who prioritized value and fuel economy over outright performance. Fuel economy was rated at around 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, which was typical for a vehicle of its size and class at the time.
Legacy
The Jeep Cherokee XJ, including the 4.0i Sport Automatic variant, has developed a strong following among enthusiasts and collectors. The 4.0-liter inline-six engine is particularly well-regarded for its longevity and relatively simple maintenance requirements. While age and mileage can take their toll, these engines are known to withstand considerable abuse. Today, well-maintained examples of the Cherokee XJ are sought after for their classic styling, off-road capability, and affordability. The 4.0i Sport Automatic represents a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a good balance of performance, comfort, and reliability, making it a desirable choice in the used car market.
