The Jeep Cherokee straddles the line between a compact and midsize crossover, similar to the Volkswagen Tiguan and Mitsubishi Outlander. It arrived in 2014, then received a facelift in 2019. For 2020, it receives light updates.
The standard engine in the Cherokee is a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder that makes 180 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque. If that’s not enough for you, Jeep provides a big bump with the optional 3.2-liter V6, which makes 271 hp and 239 lb-ft. But perhaps the best option is turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine upgrade, with its 270 hp and 295 lb-ft. That last engine is also the fuel-economy champ, with its 23 mpg city, 31 highway, and 26 combined with regular fuel. All three engines bolt to a 9-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, Jeep offers three distinct all-wheel drive (AWD) systems on the Cherokee, including one with low-range gearing. All around, the Cherokee maxes out at 4,500 lbs of towing payload.
The 2020 Cherokee lineup includes five trims: the Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Overland, and Trailhawk. The base Latitude comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED head- and taillights, fog lights, a 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB connectivity, 60/40 split-folding seats, and new Amazon Alexa Skills for 2020. Other trims unlock features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, a power liftgate, a windshield de-icer, remote start, an 8.4-inch infotainment system, power-folding mirrors, heated and cooled front seats, and navigation. The Trackhawk gets a unique offroad suspension and special front and rear trail-rated bumpers. You can also choose from two new exterior colors for 2020: Sangria and Spitfire Orange.
The Cherokee’s standard safety content consists solely of a reversing camera. Options include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic detection, and lane-departure warning.
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee is just about the perfect blend of comfort and versatility in a crossover.