THE VEHICLE THAT STARTED A REVOLUTION Cherokee (code name XJ) started the modern SUV revolution over 15 years ago with the introduction of the 1984 Cherokee. Since that time, many have tried to imitate this pioneer, but none have combined the off-road readiness with the value that defines Cherokee. Cherokee was the first vehicle in its class available with the choice of two or four doors and two- or four-wheel drive. The 2001 Cherokee continues this tradition with the same product offerings that first made it such a revolutionary vehicle.