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Melbourne, Australia - Following a series of gruelling
off-road tests, the Jeep® Cherokee has been crowned “4x4 of the Year 2005” by
Britain’s 4x4 magazine.
The Cherokee underwent a week of trials by 4x4 experts, notching up high
marks for performance, off- and on-road ride quality, and interior and exterior
appearance.
Hot on the heels of the Grand Cherokee’s success of being named “World’s Best
Off-roader” 2005 by 4x4 magazine, the 3.7-litre V6 Cherokee automatic outshone
its competitors in the mid-size category, scoring 39 points out of a possible 50
and outstripped all 45 other vehicles tested to become overall winner.
Describing the victor, 4x4 magazine said: “To beat the 45 other cars and win,
one car had to combine mainstream appeal, city style, off-road capability,
lively performance and family practicality, as well as good dealer and parts
support and be a sound long-term investment.
“The Cherokee is a 4x4 panacea, satisfying the hardcore off-roader with its
all-terrain confidence, but with looks to please the most discerning high street
poseur, which means it looks good in the mud or the ‘hood.
“Overall, it best reconciles the composites that make up the 4x4 remit and
therefore, this year, is an unequalled 4x4.”
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Vehicle |
Points |
| 1 |
Jeep Cherokee |
39 |
| 2 |
Land Rover Range Rover |
38 |
| 3 |
Toyota Land Cruiser |
37 |
Gerry Jenkins, Managing Director, Chrysler Group Australia, said: “For both
the Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee to receive these accolades from the experts
is an absolute testament to the brand's capability, appeal and overall package.
“In such a competitive market, it’s an honour for Jeep to win this award. The
standout quality and performance of the Cherokee has held it in good stead to
come out on top of the competition.”
Jeep Cherokee continues to build on its popularity in Australia, with 1,657
sales at the end of August, year to date sales are up 24 per cent over 2003.
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