Jeep’s mid-sized four-wheel-drive Cherokee diesel variant is selling at record levels in 2005, the result of an all-time high in demand for the brand’s 2.8-litre common rail diesel (CRD) model.

In the first four months of 2005, diesel Cherokee sales are running 65 per cent higher than in 2004, with diesel sales poised to break the all-time record well before the end of the year.

Since a diesel powered model was first offered in the Jeep Cherokee range in 1997, increasing demand for the variant has seen its contribution to overall Cherokee sales grow from six to 22 per cent (April, 2005 year-to-date).

Demand for the Cherokee diesel has steadily grown following the introduction of the KJ Cherokee body shape in 2000, with retails rising from 45 units that year to a record 381 in 2003.

Diesel Cherokee sales were constrained by stock shortages in 2004 (180 units), however due to greater production availability this year, 2005 sales are on track to exceed 500 units and convincingly break the previous diesel sales record set in 2003 (April, 2005 year-to-date sales of 172).

“The word is spreading on the performance and capability of our new diesel Cherokee,” said Gerry Jenkins, managing director, Chrysler Jeep Australia.

“The good news is we have been able to secure a larger allocation in response to the growing demand.

“The 2.8-litre CRD has attracted a new generation of four-wheel-drive buyers, who not only appreciate the on-road refinement and off-road prowess of the Cherokee, but also the engine’s capabilities.

“With the torque of a V8 and the fuel economy of a four cylinder, it’s truly an impressive engine,” said Jenkins

Customers have particularly taken to the new 2.8-litre common-rail diesel engine introduced earlier this year.

With its variable geometry turbocharger and rapid throttle response the new engine minimises turbo lag and delivers a more refined performance with 120 kW of power and 400 Nm more torque.

Fuel consumption is also impressive with the new diesel running on a combined figure of 9.9-litres per 100 kilometres.

The Jeep Cherokee is also available with two petrol engines, a powerful 3.7-litre and an efficient 2.4-litre engine.