The Jeep Cherokee KL isn't perfect. The infotainment system feels a generation behind, and the 3.2-liter V6's fuel economy on Sheikh Zayed Road during peak hours will make you wince. It's not the most luxurious or the most technologically advanced SUV in its class.

However, for the UAE, its strengths are undeniable. The 272 horsepower is perfectly tuned for our environment—ample for confident highway merging, yet mechanically simple and robust enough to handle the extreme heat without fuss. Where it truly justifies its existence is in its genuine 4x4 capability. While most crossovers are purely for pavement, the Cherokee can actually handle a spontaneous desert excursion to Al Qudra without breaking a sweat. The Selec-Terrain system is a genuine tool, not a marketing gimmick. The cabin, while not opulent, is durable and its air conditioning is among the most effective, cooling the interior rapidly after a day in the sun.

Verdict? It's a pragmatic choice. You're trading some polish for proven, go-anywhere capability. If your Dubai life occasionally extends beyond the city limits and you value mechanical honesty over flash, the Cherokee is a surprisingly smart, if unconventional, partner.