Pros: Impressive off-road capabilities when properly equipped; better on-road handling and composure than other Jeeps; broad range of optional equipment and high-tech features; standard 9-speed automatic transmission
Cons: Cramped rear-seat space; radical front-end styling is off-putting to Jeep traditionalists; other compact SUVs have better cargo volume
CG Says: The Jeep Cherokee sees a few minor updates for 2015 after its debut last year. Models with the 3.2-liter V6 engine get a fuel-saving stop/start feature, the available forward collision warning system adds crash-mitigating autonomous braking, and interior trim is updated on some models. For most of its trim levels, the Cherokee’s closest competitors are the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5. The exception is the range-topping, off-road-ready Cherokee Trailhawk model, which has few direct rivals in the compact-SUV class. The only other vehicles in its class that come close to–or match–its level of off-road equipment are the other compact Jeeps, namely the Compass, Patriot, and, for buyers interested in extreme off-roading, the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited.
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Jeep |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | Sport: $23,095 4WD Sport: $25,095 Latitude: $25,095 4WD Latitude: $27,095 Limited: $28,895 4WD Limited: $30,895 4WD Trailhawk: $30,395 |
| Base Engine 2.4-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 184 |
| Std. Transmission 9-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 19-22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 25-31 |
| Optional Engine 3.2-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 271 |
| Std. Transmission 9-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 19-21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26-28 |
