JEEP CHEROKEE: A classic SUV that is great for adventures but average for daily driving.
PROS: Impressive towing and off-roading capabilities; fun to drive; and the infotainment system is easy to use.
CONS: Lackluster and clunky interior; small cargo area compared to similarly-sized rivals; and the acceleration of the four-cylinder engine could use some oomph.
VERDICT:
Does it have any competitors or rivals?
Ford Bronco Sport, Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, and Honda CR-X
What’s interesting about the CHEROKEE?
- The Cherokee has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, but if you add an optional towing package, that number grows to 4,500 pounds.
- Four trims are available, including the all-new base trim, X.
- A V6 engine comes standard, but drivers can opt for a four-cylinder engine.
- The Cherokee offers an enjoyable drive, a comfortable cabin, and exciting off-roading capabilities.
How about the prices and trims?
The Cherokee's price is average, considering the features that come standard. Both X and Lux trims start at the same price of $34,000. Trailhawk adds another $3,000 and Limited costs an extra $1,750 on top of that.
Opting for the Cherokee means prioritizing certain features over others. Yes, it's made for the open road, but the interior styling feels outdated, and it's not as spacious as other small SUVs. While we can all agree that it's a classic, this segment is becoming more competitive, and Jeep is falling behind.
Which one do we recommend?
If you're getting a Cherokee to explore the open road, we recommend opting for the Trailhawk and adding the optional towing package. Otherwise, we would stick with the Latitude Lux and add an extra package to customize it.
What about its availability?
Shoppers should have no problem finding a Cherokee to test drive at their local Jeep dealership.
What about its performance and handling?
- The standard engine is a 270-horsepower V6, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive.
- An optional turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 180 horsepower is available for the Latitude Lux and Limited trims.
- Few small SUVs can tow up to 4,500 pounds like the Cherokee (if you add the optional towing package).
- Drivers can expect a smooth driving experience both in the city and on dirt.
The Cherokee isn't a powerhouse SUV like other models, both similarly-sized or larger. Instead, this sport utility vehicle is about getting the job done efficiently and smoothly. So, if you're looking for an SUV that rides like a Jeep or something that will give you lots of thrills, it's best to look elsewhere. On the other hand, if you want a small SUV that can handle rocky roads and the city, the Cherokee is an excellent option to consider.
However, one of the bummers about the Cherokee is the fuel economy. The four-cylinder only gets 23/31 mpg in the city/highway, while the V6 gets 19/27 mpg. Those are some of the worst numbers for small SUVs with similar engines. If you're hoping to save some money on gas or reduce your carbon footprint, the Cherokee is not the vehicle you should pick.
How’s the interior?
Cabin Space
On the one hand, the cabin comes with comfortable seats and an intuitive infotainment system. The visibility is also excellent from the front and the back. Unfortunately, those elements aren't enough to obscure the lack of spaciousness. There are far roomier small SUVs in terms of seating and cargo area. There's also a lack of cubbies and storage spaces for storing personal items. Plus, because the Cherokee has higher ground clearance, loading the cargo area can become cumbersome.
Infotainment and connectivity
All four trims come equipped with an 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen with Jeep's easy-to-use Uconnect system. A six-speaker sound system, Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. USB ports, a household-style power outlet, a larger infotainment touchscreen, and an enhanced driver information display are available for all trims except X.
LIKES: Unless you need things to be especially large, we imagine nearly everyone won't have a problem navigating Uconnect.
DISLIKES: The upgraded Alpine speaker system is only standard on the top-tier Limited trim.
How about the technology and features?
LIKES: Plenty of driver assistant programs come standard on all trims, such as blind-spot monitoring and forward collision mitigation. Features such as dual-zone climate control, a rear window defroster, and power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support come standard.
DISLIKES: An automated parking system and adaptive cruise control only come standard on Limited, the top-tier trim.
Quick Quirks: While the interior doesn't look cheap, they also don't feel up-to-date or upscale. Shoppers can add some accents here or there, but don't expect an exceptionally stylish interior. |
Some additional features include:
- A dual-pane panoramic sunroof comes standard on the Limited trim and is optional for others.
- An optional feature worth considering is the hands-free power liftgate, which may come in various packages.
- Adding child seats to the backseats is more straightforward than we expected.
Many driver assistant programs can get programmed to be either visual or audible, which is convenient if you don't like to hear a lot of beeps.
How’s the exterior?
The Cherokee is another classic Jeep vehicle. When you see it driving past, you don't have to do a double-take to register the brand. Scalloped sides, distinct front grille, and stylized lights give it a rugged, handsome look. It's less boxy than past versions but still retains the Jeep ethos, which we like.
What warranty and safety does it offer?
Many safety features come standard, and the Cherokee includes an above-average warranty package.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has awarded the Cherokee four out of five stars.
- Many safety features are optional, such as forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and a rear cross-traffic alert.
- Limited warranty for 36,000 miles or three years.
- Electric powertrain warranty for 60,000 miles or five years.
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years.
Are there any incentives and rebates for the Cherokee?
To learn about incentives and rebates, visit Jeep.com or your local Jeep dealership.
2022 Jeep Cherokee in Douglasville
