MY Christmas 'box' from Cubbin and North was full of goodies. The N-reg Jeep Cherokee pictured, crashing through rough terrain is not the actual vehicle, dealer Ian Cubbin will be pleased to know!, writes Globe motoring editor Robin Bird.

The test car is more than capable of doing the same, but with yours truly full of turkey, the Jeep didn't venture much further than Prenton Park for the traditional Boxing Day football match.

Travelling home was 'silent night' the powerful four litre engine can't be heard. Seats are of genuine leather, electrically reclined for sofa comfort. Expensive in- car entertainment, combined with air conditioning, adds to the general feeling of comfort and opulence, along with wood veneer interior inserts. With cruise control, this Cherokee almost drives itself-hard to believe it is one of the most formidable off road 4x4s on the road!

Time, date, temperature and even compass readouts help guide you on your journey, windows open and close at the push of a button.

The view afforded is a stately one while the roomy five door body sits on large. shiny alloy wheels and chunky tyres. The Cherokee is easy to park, too, with sensitive power steering.

Driving conditions were stormy but the Cherokee felt sure footed and safe in winds strong enough to bring trees down. Dale, a youngster I know, loves Jeeps, so a ride in this top of range Cherokee was a Christmas treat for him, too.

In fact, Dale loved his ride in the Cherokee that much, he offered a thank you gift of his favourite AC Cobra sports car model - which I took being an 'Injun' giver!

After all, this 60, odd thousand mile Cherokee had to go back to the showrooms for January sale.

At £19,995, with full service history, the Cherokee offers a considerable saving on the new price of £29,995 and feels just run in.

The previous owner liked it that much, he only parted for a new one. My only reservation about the Cherokee was having to return it.

For a taste of fishin', huntin' Wild West outdoors, in saloon car comfort, go no further than Cubbin and North, New Chester Road, for a test run.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.