Jeep Cherokee XJ Year-by-Year Timeline (1984–2001)

This timeline highlights the major changes, updates, and milestones in the Cherokee XJ’s production history.

• 1984 – The Jeep Cherokee XJ debuts. First SUV with a unibody design, available in two- and four-door versions. Engine options: 2.5L AMC four-cylinder, 2.8L GM V6. Trim levels include Base, Pioneer, Chief, and Limited.
• 1985–1986 – Minor updates. The Cherokee begins gaining traction as a practical alternative to larger SUVs.
• 1987 – Major improvement with the introduction of the 4.0L inline-six engine (177 hp), quickly becoming the most popular choice. New NP242 Selec-Trac transfer case option. Wagoneer Limited trim debuts.
• 1988 – New spoke-style wheels and trim updates. Optional anti-lock brakes introduced.
• 1989 – Minor refinements; XJ sales continue to climb.
• 1990 – Jeep drops the GM 2.8L V6; 4.0L and 2.5L four-cylinder remain. Interior and comfort features improved.
• 1991 – The 4.0L gets upgraded to the High Output (HO) version, boosting power to 190 hp. Chrysler (after buying AMC in 1987) updates electronics and fuel injection. New interior layout.
• 1992 – Optional driver airbag introduced. Selec-Trac transfer case improved. Briarwood trim offers woodgrain styling.
• 1993 – Driver airbag standard. Country trim replaces Briarwood.
• 1994 – Passenger airbag option becomes available. Small interior and electrical refinements.
• 1995 – Last year for the AX15 manual transmission; minor updates.
• 1996 – Transitional year. OBD-II diagnostics added. Cooling and electrical systems updated for reliability.
• 1997 – Major facelift: new rounded front fascia, updated grille and headlights, redesigned rear hatch, and modernized interior. Airbags now standard. Trim levels include Sport, SE, and Country.
• 1998 – Classic trim introduced. Minor updates to interior and options.
• 1999 – Cherokee continues largely unchanged; still highly popular with off-roaders.
• 2000 – Coil-rail ignition added to the 4.0L engine. Updated exhaust system with two pre-cats. New interior colors and minor features.
• 2001 – Final year of production in North America. "60th Anniversary Edition" offered. Cherokee XJ production ends in June 2001, replaced by the Jeep Liberty (KJ).