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It is time for the new generation of the Jeep’s compact crossover SUV. The 2021 Jeep Cherokee is going to keep its name (previous two series appeared as Jeep Liberty). The company also plans to discontinue Compass crossover. It is the competition inside the lineup, plus the reliability is really questionable. Finally, Cherokee sells better and the focus is going to be on this model.
The vehicle is available with naturally-aspirated four-cylinder, turbo-four, and V6 engines. That makes 2021 Jeep Cherokee pretty versatile and ready to cover multiple classes. Still, its size positions the vehicle to the compact class. This is the toughest segment for a breakthrough. Toyota Rav4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape are the best-selling models in the US. These set the challenge to FCA engineers since the new Cherokee will definitely need a hybrid drivetrain.
The redesign of the crossover will also bring the new exterior and interior styling. Whatsoever, the seven-slot grille is still the highlight, with the aggressive nose and headlights. Inside, we will see the new infotainment system with more advanced options and features.
2021 Jeep Cherokee Specs
A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, called ‘Tigershark’, is under the hood. It is the base version with 180 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. The engine fits into the average outputs of the compact class. It is also fuel efficient. Currently, Cherokee returns 23/31 mpg. After the redesign, the crossover is going to be lighter. That will cause a better fuel economy. If you opt for an all-wheel drive, the gas mileage drops to 24 mpg.
An alternative is a V6 unit. Engineers are not installing a larger Pentastar unit for the compact crossover, but a 3.2-liter displacement. It keeps an acceptable fuel economy and adds extra power. With 270 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque, it can tow up to 4,500 pounds. All-wheel drive harms the mileage again, dropping it to 23 mpg. A nine-speed automatic gearbox is standard for engines. Buyers reported some issues with a slow response, but the overall impression is that the gearbox is smooth and efficient.
Turbo Engine
That is not all by the FCA engineers. The latest version adds a turbo unit, which is going to appear after the redesign. A 2.0-liter four-pot drivetrain adds more power for the same price paid by fuel consumption. Well, the turbo version will cost more, so the thirstier system would be a stumbling block for buyers. The Trailhawk version drops the mileage to 20/26, but it also returns exceptional off-road capabilities. Like other motors in the lineup, a turbo version comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission as a power router. Total outputs beat even the record of a V6 – 270 hp and 295 lb-ft.
2021 Jeep Cherokee Hybrid
Cherokee is efficient, but it can’t cope with the latest versions of the Toyota Rav4 and Honda CR-V. These two returns 42 mpg respectively. The hybrid system allows both companies to offer such mileage. So, the new 2021 Jeep Cherokee must consider a similar drivetrain, especially with the new Ford Escape also becoming a hybrid. Nissan Rogue hybrid also offers improved mpg rating, but not as good as class leaders.
The company is going to combine the existing four-cylinder unit and gain extra power as well. With 200+ hp and 35+ mpg, the 2021 Cherokee can reach 300,000+ sales in the next few seasons.
Trim Levels
Jeep and FCA are well-known for numerous options. There are always few trim levels ready for further upgrades. The 2021 Jeep Cherokee won’t be different. The base version of the crossover is Latitude, with blind-spot monitoring and cruise control as key parts of the safety system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are there right from the base configuration, as well as heat mirrors. Latitude Plus adds keyless entry, vinyl details, park assist, and an 8-way power bucket for the driver. Upland and Altitude are cool versions with minor updates.
If you are looking for a premium offer, there are Limited and High Altitude crossovers. The first one comes with a power liftgate, two-zone climate, and leather seats. Larger infotainment screen sits at the center of the dashboard, while front seats and steering wheel are getting heating.
2021 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk
It is not the most expensive, but the 2021 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is the most exciting member of the lineup. Available only with optional engines, it provides more power for off-road action. The company upgrades it with all-terrain tires wrapping 17-inch wheels. Also, there are skid plates and underbody protection. The off-road suspension will smoothen the drive on rough surfaces. Well, the Selec-Terrain AWD will definitely help. Crawl control is added, as well as the ‘rock mode’. Active Drive II with a locking rear axle is also included in the offer. If you want to go further, then Trailhawk Elite is bringing premium interior features and exclusive offers. This is the most expensive model in the lineup, with a starting price above $37,000.
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