AutoBidMaster

· 14 Sep 2022

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2022 Jeep Cherokee Review

Pros
Strong power from available V6 and turbocharged engines
Suspension smooths out rough surfaces
User-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen
Trailhawk offers excellent off-road capability for a small SUV

Cons
Sluggish acceleration with the base engine
Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers

What's new
Revised trim level lineup
New Cherokee X trim
8.4-inch touchscreen now standard across the lineup
Part of the second Cherokee generation introduced for 2014


The 2022 Jeep Cherokee is one of many small SUVs in a very competitive segment. All Cherokees offer a comfortable ride and good visibility. And Jeep offers five trim levels, so there's likely one that matches your budget or your desired level of off-road capability. If you plan on doing some off-roading with your Cherokee, we'd strongly suggest getting the Trailhawk version. Its raised suspension, special four-wheel-drive system and all-terrain tires really help out on rutted and rocky trails.

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As capable as the Cherokee is, it's not the roomiest SUV in its class. Rivals such as the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-5 both offer more space and a bit more refinement. Since the Cherokee received a few updates for 2021, mainly in the form of additional standard features and advanced driver aids, we don't expect the 2022 model to be much different. Check out our Expert Rating to get our test team's full evaluation of the Cherokee's comfort, performance and more.

How does the Cherokee drive? We're pleasantly surprised by the Cherokee's sporty nature, especially when you consider Jeep's reputation for off-road capability. The steering is nicely weighted and feels direct. It also transmits some of the road texture to the driver. The wheel is well balanced, and there's a good sense of on-center feel. Shifts feels sluggish with the nine-speed automatic, so we'd probably opt for the turbo 2.0-liter engine, which outperforms the V6.

The brake pedal makes it easy and predictable to stop smoothly in everyday driving. Off-roading is above average too, with multiple trim levels from which to choose that offer varying levels of capability

How comfortable is the Cherokee? The Cherokee does a fine job of softening harsh roads but is less adept at controlling the ups and downs of smoother undulating roads. We found the seats to be comfortable, with nice, breathable upholstery, even if they don't provide a lot of lateral support. There's an average amount of road and wind noise, not enough to be distracting, but we wouldn't call it quiet either.

The climate control system maintains temperature well, and the controls are easy to locate and adjust. Some functions such as the seat and steering wheel heaters are located in the touchscreen, requiring an extra step, but pop up immediately when you start the car — a nice touch. The seat heaters get toasty quickly, too.

How’s the interior? The high-mounted cabin is easy to climb into and see out of, and there's an ample amount of headroom. The view straight back is free of obstructions, and the generous glass — including the small window at each rear flank — also helps to minimize blind spots. There's also a generous amount of seat height adjustment, which should suit a wide range of driver types. Backseat passengers will appreciate the generous legroom.

This Jeep is not only easy to use, it's also easy to figure out, thanks to a straightforward Uconnect infotainment system and large, easy-to-wield knobs and buttons. However, those who are eyesight-challenged might want to upgrade to the larger 8.4-inch infotainment screen.

How’s the tech? Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is standard and the entry-level infotainment interface is nice, even if the icons are on the small side. The touchscreen menu is pretty straightforward, providing prompts that are helpful in guiding you through the available commands. You can make calls, tune to a radio station, and even set the climate control system through voice commands. There are two USB ports up front and two more for charging in the back, and the upgraded audio system delivers great sound.

Our test car did not have many driver aids, but the alerts (such as blind-spot warning) can be configured to be audible or visual only. Adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist are only available on higher trims.

How’s the storage? Despite the trunk's small volume dimensions, its layout is clever and useful. The adjustable load floor is handy and liftover height is manageable, but the Cherokee has one of the small trunks in the segment with 24.6 cubic feet of cargo space. There's a good variety of cabin storage options for the items people commonly bring inside.

Child safety seat anchors are clearly marked and accessible between the rear seatback and bottom cushion. Likewise, the rear tethers are easy to access on the back of the seats. For those who tow trailers, an optional tow package increases the Cherokee's capacity to a useful 4,500 pounds max.

How’s the fuel economy? Our V6 test vehicle is rated at 22 mpg (19 city/27 highway), which is well below what competitors return. We averaged 20.9 mpg over the course of two weeks, with a best return of 25.2 mpg on our 115-mile evaluation loop. The optional turbo 2.0-liter is not only more efficient but makes more power.

Is the Cherokee a good value? Our midlevel Cherokee model was missing some interior refinement, but things weren't all bad. The control knobs have soft detents and rubberized knurling that makes for easy adjustment. The hard plastic trim has a ruggedness to it, but it looks a bit cheap compared to what's in segment leaders.

The Cherokee has a three-year/36,000-mile basic and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, which matches most rivals. Roadside assistance is covered for five years/60,000 miles, which is better than some rivals. For pure value, segment leaders offer more standard features, but many of the Jeep's add-ons are affordable, and some are not offered by competitors. Ultimately, you're paying more for Jeep capability.

The Cherokee is much easier on the eyes after Jeep's midcycle refresh for 2019, but its design definitely lost some of its predecessor's boldness. Couple that with the fact that it's one of the most capable off-road vehicles in the class that's also surprisingly fun to drive on the road, and it's a rig we'd be happy to drive daily.