It is hard to believe, but 2008 marked the 25th anniversary of the Jeep that changed the face of the auto industry. In 1983, as a '84 model, Jeep introduced the unibody-framed four-door, four-wheel-drive utility vehicle. We are talking about the XJ Cherokee of course, and as soon as it was introduced it was a hit. Shift-on-the-fly 4WD, affordable price, seating for four and decent mileage numbers made it a favorite for young and budding families everywhere.
Fast forward 10 years, the used Cherokee was hitting the market at very affordable prices, the 104-inch wheelbase, front coil springs, rear leaf springs and extra cargo space found a home in the hearts of the off-road oriented enthusiast.
The North American XJ Association (NAXJA) pays tribute to the Jeep Cherokee and is a major player in the off-road world. Every year NAXJA throws an event in Moab, Utah, in the fall and for this milestone, we had to check it out. If you have a Cherokee or even a regular Jeep and have an open mind, check out NAXJA to meet great Jeepers and maybe even attend this event next year.