THE most recent Jeep Cherokee was introduced in 2014 and it's a good, cheaper alternative to the Land Rover Freelander/Discovery Sport or the Toyota Land Cruiser.

It's sleeker and less boxy than previous models bearing the name - but is as capable off-road as ever - always a hallmark of the brand of course.

With this model, Jeep concentrated on improving the road manners - and made a huge leap forward.

Like most real 4x4s, there is a fair amount body roll through harder corners but the chassis copes with it well and the general feel is of good composure and a very good grip.

Comfort also made a large step forward from previous models and is only a little upset by uneven surfaces.

This is helped by excellent seats, which are oddly better in the cheaper cloth upholstery versions than in those with leather.

The Cherokee is completely at home on the motorway, with very little engine noise at cruising speeds and wind noise, though noticeable, is never bad enough to become annoying.

All UK models bar the rage-topping Trailhawk have a 2.0-litre diesel engine with either 138bhp or 168bhp.

Entry models have the 138bhp version driving through a six-speed manual gearbox, and a choice of two or four wheel drive (4WD), but the higher powered one comes with a standard nine speed automatic and 4WD.

The Trailhawk, which has loads of underbody protection and a higher ride height for serious off-road work, is powered by a 3.2 V6 petrol engine with the nine-speed automatic gearbox, but economy is not up to much, and very few have been sold in this country.

The majority of UK buyers will only need the front-wheel drive 138bhp manual, which in some ways is the pick of the range.

It gives little performance away to its more powerful brother and has better running costs.

The 4WD models come with Jeep's Selec-Terrain system and a switch near the gearlever gives the driver four different modes: Snow, Sand and Mud, Sport and Auto.

The first two have obvious functions, while Sport gives improved accelerator response and makes the automatic gearbox hold on to gears longer and kick down more quickly. Auto will be enough for most people, since it chooses the best setup for the conditions all the time.

Drive to the rear wheels is cut during normal road use to save fuel.

The 2WD models can reach 60 from rest in a shade over ten seconds and they are also capable of 50-plus miles per gallon.

The higher powered 168bhp models are still capable of 48mpg, and have emissions of 154g/km.

Even entry Longitude models come well equipped, with an alarm, remote locking, four electric windows, air con, traction control, plenty of airbags, cruise and audio remote controls.

Pay about £10,250 for a '14 14-reg 2WD Longitude with 138bhp, or £19,000 for a '16 16-reg 168bhp Limited 4WD auto.