2001 Jeep Cherokee Limited: A Final Year Legend
Unmodified XJ Cherokee from 2001? This unicorn is in good shape and ready to rock!
Jeep cemented its status as the modern off-road brand of choice with three vehicles: the Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wrangler. Basically, all three still exist and are worthy successors to their older relatives. On the other hand, it’s entirely possible no Cherokee will ever live up to the venerable XJ series, which Jeep produced from 1984-2001. The company created the perfect SUV in function and form. It may have been lightning in a bottle.
Fortunately, at least one model from the last year of production still exists. And it’s in great condition too. The 2001 Jeep Cherokee Limited recently appeared on Cars & Bids, an automotive auction site which features modern enthusiast vehicles. It looks like it has plenty of life left in it.
Boxy and Beautiful
The XJ Cherokee essentially launched the modern SUV when it arrived in 1984. Jeep equipped the Cherokee with a unibody frame. Basically, it gave the Cherokee a far more civilized ride than its rivals, which at the time sported heavy body-on-frame platforms. Additionally, its styling almost immediately became iconic. Future competitors like the Ford Explorer borrowed a bit of the Jeep’s aesthetic for their own purposes. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgic styling and modern engineering. No wonder that they’ve become highly sought after, nearly twenty years after the last one rolled off the assembly line.
This particular Cherokee has been owned by the same owner since it was new. Even more impressive is the lack of any modifications. This Jeep is essentially a time capsule from 2001, or 1984, depending on your perspective. It’s the best iteration of the XJ. As a Limited, it’s also got some great options and features. Everything is power operated. Plus, it comes with the factory Infinity stereo system and a combination cassette and CD player.
Not Many Downsides
Perhaps more importantly, the Cherokee boasts a Select-Trac transfer case and four-wheel drive. This would still be a great vehicle even if power was being sent to just the rear, but having the additional capability is definitely a huge benefit. It also appears like the next owner will be cruising inside a cabin that’s been well-preserved, as the interior looks nearly new. And of course the Jeep comes with the legendary 4.0 liter inline 6 cylinder engine. A relic from the AMC era that has earned an excellent reputation for its longevity. With 97,900 miles on the odometer, it most likely has a lot left to offer.
Like pretty much all vehicles that are old enough to vote, this Cherokee does have some minor flaws. Fortunately, they seem easily fixable. There are cosmetic issues like scratches, dents, and dings. The driver’s side heated seat appears to be nonfunctional. Finally, the front passenger side speakers are currently inoperable. It should be pretty cheap to eliminate all of those problems.
A Rare Cherokee
A top of the line version of the XJ Cherokee, with under 100,000 miles, that’s been left stock by its sole owner all these years, is almost certainly a unicorn. And this one might not be perfect, but it’s pretty damn close to ideal. Hopefully the next owner will treat it just as well as the current owner did. If you’re interested in this fantastic find, you’re in luck. Bidding lasts until August 13. Currently, 9 bids have already been placed and the price stands at $6,000. But that’s likely to increase.
Cars & Bids seems to require the seller to be available for questions. In this case, the seller’s grandson appeared in the comments section and is willing to talk to potential buyers. Although it’s worth checking out the listing even if you aren’t in the market for a vintage Cherokee, because the Jeep is simply gorgeous.
Photos: Cars & Bids