Reviews, Prices and Specifications for the 2023 Jeep Cherokee

While the Trailhawk model is the most expensive way to own a Cherokee, it’s also the best way. The powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine not only has a higher towing capacity, it also earns a higher EPA rating than the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter found in the Altitude Lux. Not only does the Trailhawk look tougher, but thanks to standard Jeep Active Drive Lock, which strengthens the drivetrain with a locking rear differential and a special traction mode for getting out of mud or rocky situations. The Trailhawk also has nearly an inch of added ground clearance, more aggressive tires, and a larger infotainment screen.

Engine, Transmission and Performance

The Jeep Cherokee uses a 180-hp 2.4-liter inline-four for its Altitude Lux trim, but gets a 270-hp 2.0-liter with 295 pound-feet of torque for its off-road Trailhawk offering. Both are paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive. While we haven’t tested either powertrain, its raucous 2.0-liter is one horsepower below the V-6 offered in last year’s Cherokee. As you’d expect from a Jeep, the Cherokee rides with sturdiness and sturdiness, making it feel bigger than its competitors. Relatively firm suspension settings control body roll in corners without compromising ride quality. Impact is absorbed without much excess echo, and the Jeep never feels like it’s floating on the road. We wish the steering provided more feedback from the road, but it’s well weighted and accurate. The feel of a solid brake pedal promotes calm in panic-braking scenarios, and the Cherokee’s 70-mph-to-zero emergency braking performance is average for its class.

Crane Capacity and Payload

Maximum towing capacity for the 2023 Jeep Cherokee is 4,000 pounds for Trailhawk models with the optional Trailer Tow Group equipment package. It’s 500 pounds lighter than last year’s Cherokee whose V-6 powertrain has a slight trailering advantage. This is still a huge advantage over rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Volkswagen Tiguan. In fact, the Cherokee compact crossover has a higher towing rating than large SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Edge.

Real World Fuel and MPG Savings

The Cherokee has the worst fuel economy in its compact crossover-and-SUV segment, according to the EPA. The most fuel-efficient version comes with a 180-hp 2.4-liter inline-four; it gets the EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 29 highway. The Trailhawk’s more powerful 270-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four scored less well, at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway. That’s 2 mpg better, for EPA city and highway, than the previously offered V-6-powered Trailhawk from last year. We have not bowed to any of the versions our 75 mph fuel-efficient route. For more information on the Cherokee’s fuel economy, visit EPA website.

Interior, Comfort and Cargo

With a supportive seat and easy-to-use controls, the Cherokee’s cabin feels comfortable. However, given that the Cherokee is larger on the outside than many of its competitors, we wish it felt more spacious on the inside. Small windows and high window sills contribute to the feeling of being confined. The Cherokee’s cargo area is smaller than most vehicles of this size, and interior cubby storage is average at best. It’s more difficult to load backwards than into some of its rivals because of the Jeep’s high lift-over height. In addition, its cargo area is significantly smaller than that of its main rivals such as Ford Escape (34 cubes) and Honda CRV (39).

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Uconnect infotainment system available on Jeep is the best in the business, with a well-organized menu and plenty of features. The standard touch screen measures 8.4 inches. Starting with the Latitude Plus trim, each model adds two USB ports at the rear of the center console for use by rear seat passengers. Every Cherokee has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspots are available.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Jeep now provides a variety of standards driver assistance technology as well as some optional assists. For more information on Cherokee crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) website. Key safety features include:

• Standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
• Standard lane departure warning and lane maintenance assistance
• Standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alerts

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Cherokee’s warranty coverage is average for its class. Competitors like Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson is the only rival to offer a significantly longer powertrain warranty. However, all models come with three years free maintenance.

• The limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• The powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• Includes three years of free maintenance

More Features and Specifications