2019 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2019 Jeep Cherokee
Overview | |
MSRP$25,045 | MSRP$25,750 |
Listings2936 | Listings898 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.2 out of 10 |
2019 Jeep Cherokee Reviews SummaryThe Jeep Cherokee, in its various forms, is not like the rest of the compact crossover set. While most rivals offer rugged, capable vehicles, the Cherokee delivers more. Its 4-wheel-drive and terrain-management systems are proven, and the Cherokee’s Trailhawk trim is the only small SUV that can actually hang off-road with the likes of the iconic Jeep Wrangler. This capability puts it at a unique crossroads—it provides Jeep shoppers with a pretty capable SUV, but one that's more affordable than the Grand Cherokee. The Trailhawk also offers Wrangler buyers a potential alternative with better on-road manners. Add to this that the Cherokee has been redesigned for 2019. Are the looks enough to make compact SUV buyers flock to it? And is the Trailhawk capable enough to make a Jeep shopper consider a Cherokee over the Wrangler? | |
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Reviews SummaryTechnically, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is listed as a midsize SUV, but this is a stretch. Now entering its fourth generation, the Santa Fe fits somewhere between a compact SUV like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, or Nissan Rogue and a midsize like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, or Nissan Pathfinder. This vehicle actually replaces the 2-row Santa Fe Sport. The previous Santa Fe was a 3-row version, and it is still available, largely unchanged, but now named the Santa Fe XL. It will most likely be phased out of production, as Hyundai has a true 3-row midsize called the Palisade arriving this summer for the 2020 model year. But back to the car at hand: The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is a true quality crossover. While it's technically large enough to compete against midsize SUVs, it shines as a great value when cross-shopped against other compact crossovers. | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.4L 180 hp I4 | Engine2.4L 185 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower180 hp @ 6250 rpm | Horsepower185 hp @ 6000 rpm |
MPG City22 | MPG City22 |
MPG Highway31 | MPG Highway29 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.4L 180 hp I4 | Engine Name2.4L 185 hp I4 |
Torque171 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm | Torque178 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
Horsepower180 hp @ 6250 rpm | Horsepower185 hp @ 6000 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City22 | MPG City22 |
MPG Highway31 | MPG Highway29 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space22.7 cu ft | Cargo Space35.9 cu ft |
Curb Weight3655 lbs | Curb Weight3803 lbs |
Height65.7 in | Height66.1 in |
Length182.0 in | Length187.8 in |
Width73.2 in | Width74.4 in |
Wheelbase106.2 in | Wheelbase108.9 in |
Maximum Payload1000 lbs | Maximum Payload926 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity2000 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity2000 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $25,045 | $25,750 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.0 out of 10Read full review | 8.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | ||
Summary | The Jeep Cherokee, in its various forms, is not like the rest of the compact crossover set. While most rivals offer rugged, capable vehicles, the Cherokee delivers more. Its 4-wheel-drive and terrain-management systems are proven, and the Cherokee’s Trailhawk trim is the only small SUV that can actually hang off-road with the likes of the iconic Jeep Wrangler. This capability puts it at a unique crossroads—it provides Jeep shoppers with a pretty capable SUV, but one that's more affordable than the Grand Cherokee. The Trailhawk also offers Wrangler buyers a potential alternative with better on-road manners. Add to this that the Cherokee has been redesigned for 2019. Are the looks enough to make compact SUV buyers flock to it? And is the Trailhawk capable enough to make a Jeep shopper consider a Cherokee over the Wrangler? | Technically, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is listed as a midsize SUV, but this is a stretch. Now entering its fourth generation, the Santa Fe fits somewhere between a compact SUV like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, or Nissan Rogue and a midsize like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, or Nissan Pathfinder. This vehicle actually replaces the 2-row Santa Fe Sport. The previous Santa Fe was a 3-row version, and it is still available, largely unchanged, but now named the Santa Fe XL. It will most likely be phased out of production, as Hyundai has a true 3-row midsize called the Palisade arriving this summer for the 2020 model year. But back to the car at hand: The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is a true quality crossover. While it's technically large enough to compete against midsize SUVs, it shines as a great value when cross-shopped against other compact crossovers. |
Video | ||
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.4L 180 hp I4 | 2.4L 185 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 180 hp @ 6250 rpm | 185 hp @ 6000 rpm |
MPG City | 22 | 22 |
MPG Highway | 31 | 29 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.4L 180 hp I4 | 2.4L 185 hp I4 |
Torque | 171 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm | 178 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
Horsepower | 180 hp @ 6250 rpm | 185 hp @ 6000 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 22 | 22 |
MPG Highway | 31 | 29 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 22.7 cu ft | 35.9 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3655 lbs | 3803 lbs |
Height | 65.7 in | 66.1 in |
Length | 182.0 in | 187.8 in |
Width | 73.2 in | 74.4 in |
Wheelbase | 106.2 in | 108.9 in |
Maximum Payload | 1000 lbs | 926 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 2000 lbs | 2000 lbs |
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee has undergone significant design changes, addressing the polarizing styling of its predecessor. The new front-end design is more conventional, and the rear hatch now features a more modern look. The interior offers a sensible, logical control layout and plenty of storage solutions. The available trims cater to various preferences, from the base Latitude to the luxurious Overland and the off-road-oriented Trailhawk.
The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe leads the charge of a new generation of Hyundai vehicles with daring, bold, futuristic exteriors. The interior is modern and practical, with a crisp, modern feel and a surprisingly organic ambiance. The available trims offer a range of features, from the base SE to the upscale Ultimate, catering to different needs and preferences.















The 2019 Jeep Cherokee offers a range of engine options, including a new turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, providing solid acceleration. It also boasts various 4-wheel-drive systems and a Terrain Management System for different driving conditions. The Cherokee provides decent towing capabilities and offers a mix of fuel efficiency across its lineup.
The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe offers two engine options, with the turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine providing strong acceleration. It features a drive mode selector and offers a good balance of fuel efficiency for its class.
The Cherokee offers a functional control layout and various storage solutions within the cabin. However, its cargo space is relatively limited compared to some competitors in the compact SUV class.
The Santa Fe offers clever storage solutions and a relatively spacious cargo area, making it a practical choice for everyday use.
The Cherokee features the latest Uconnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, available in different screen sizes across the trims. The system offers a great layout and user-friendly interface.
The Santa Fe comes with a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, offering a logical layout and bright graphics. It also offers a range of connectivity and entertainment features across its trims.
The Cherokee comes with a comprehensive set of standard and available safety features, including advanced driver-assistance technologies, making it a safe choice for families and daily driving.
The Santa Fe comes standard with a full suite of driver-assistance features, including advanced safety technologies, enhancing its safety credentials.
CarGurus highlights

Based on the ratings and comparison, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe edges slightly ahead with a rating of 8.2 out of 10, compared to the 8.0 rating of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee. Both vehicles offer a compelling mix of features, performance, and practicality, but the Santa Fe's slightly higher rating makes it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.
Choose the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe if:
- You value strong acceleration and a balanced driving experience.
- You prioritize safety features and advanced driver-assistance technologies.
- You are looking for a practical and spacious SUV with a user-friendly infotainment system.
Choose the 2019 Jeep Cherokee if:
- You prioritize off-road capability and towing capacity.
- You prefer a wide range of trims and options to customize your SUV.
- You are looking for a vehicle with a user-friendly infotainment system and a functional interior layout.
CarGurus highlights

Based on the ratings and comparison, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe edges slightly ahead with a rating of 8.2 out of 10, compared to the 8.0 rating of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee. Both vehicles offer a compelling mix of features, performance, and practicality, but the Santa Fe's slightly higher rating makes it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.
Choose the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe if:
Shop Now- You value strong acceleration and a balanced driving experience.
- You prioritize safety features and advanced driver-assistance technologies.
- You are looking for a practical and spacious SUV with a user-friendly infotainment system.
Choose the 2019 Jeep Cherokee if:
Shop Now- You prioritize off-road capability and towing capacity.
- You prefer a wide range of trims and options to customize your SUV.
- You are looking for a vehicle with a user-friendly infotainment system and a functional interior layout.

By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.


































