The 2024 and 2025 Jeep Cherokee: Engine, Design, and Trim Levels

The current Jeep Cherokee comes with two engine choices: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 270 horsepower, or a 3.2-liter V6 that produces 271 horsepower. Both pair with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine is standard on most trims and delivers better fuel economy; the V6 is available on higher trims and offers more towing capacity.

The exterior design is more angular than previous generations, with a wider stance and a taller grille. Inside, the cabin has been redesigned with a standard 8.4-inch touchscreen on base models, upgrading to 10.1 inches on higher trims. The dashboard layout is cleaner than before, with physical buttons for climate control rather than touch-only controls.

Jeep offers the Cherokee in five trim levels: Latitude, Latitude Lux, Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit. The Latitude is the entry point; the Trailhawk adds all-terrain capability; the Overland and Summit focus on comfort and technology. Each trim determines what features come standard and what you can add through option packages.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2024 and 2025 Cherokee use either a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder or a 3.2-liter V6, with the turbo offering better fuel economy and the V6 offering more towing power.
  • Five trim levels are available, from the base Latitude to the luxury-focused Summit, each with different standard features and available packages.
  • The new interior includes a larger touchscreen, physical climate controls, and a redesigned dashboard compared to older models.
  • All-wheel drive is standard on Trailhawk models and available on other trims; two-wheel drive is the base configuration for Latitude and Overland trims.
  • Real-world fuel economy ranges from the mid-20s to low-30s miles per gallon depending on engine choice, transmission, and drivetrain.

Drivetrain and All-Wheel Drive Options

The Cherokee comes standard with front-wheel drive on Latitude, Latitude Lux, Overland, and Summit trims. All-wheel drive is available on all trims and is standard on the Trailhawk. The all-wheel-drive system uses a multi-mode transfer case on the Trailhawk that includes Rock, Snow, and Sport modes for different terrain and weather conditions.

The Trailhawk also sits higher than other trims, with increased ground clearance and a different suspension tuning designed for off-road use. If you plan to tow, the V6 engine with all-wheel drive can handle up to 4,500 pounds; the turbo four-cylinder maxes out at 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Interior Technology and Safety Features

Every new Cherokee includes a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The base 8.4-inch screen appears on Latitude models; Latitude Lux and higher get the 10.1-inch version. Wireless smartphone integration is available on Overland and Summit trims.

Safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert on all trims. Higher trims add adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, and a 360-degree camera system. The Cherokee earned a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, though specific crash test scores vary by category.

Storage and comfort details matter for daily use: the Cherokee has 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 54.9 cubic feet with seats folded. Latitude and Latitude Lux models have cloth seats; Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit offer leather or premium upholstery options.

Fuel Economy and Real-World Performance

The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder achieves an EPA estimate of 26 miles per gallon city and 33 highway with front-wheel drive, or 25 city and 32 highway with all-wheel drive. The 3.2-liter V6 rates at 21 city and 28 highway with front-wheel drive, or 20 city and 27 highway with all-wheel drive. These are manufacturer estimates; actual mileage depends on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance.

Real-world owners report that turbo models often fall slightly below EPA highway estimates in mixed driving, while V6 models tend to track closer to estimates. The difference between front-wheel and all-wheel drive is typically one to two miles per gallon in everyday use.

Pricing and Available Packages

The 2024 Jeep Cherokee Latitude with front-wheel drive and the turbo engine starts around $28,000 to $30,000 before destination charges and taxes, though prices vary by region and dealer. The Latitude Lux adds roughly $2,000 to $3,000; the Trailhawk adds $4,000 to $5,000; the Overland and Summit command higher premiums. The V6 engine adds approximately $1,500 to $2,000 to the base price.

Option packages bundle features like the larger touchscreen, leather seats, panoramic sunroof, and premium audio systems. A fully loaded Summit with the V6 and all-wheel drive can exceed $45,000 before taxes. Dealer inventory, regional demand, and current incentives affect the actual price you pay.

How the New Cherokee Compares to Competitors

The Cherokee competes directly with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5 in the compact SUV segment. The Cherokee emphasizes off-road capability through the Trailhawk trim and Jeep's brand heritage; the CR-V and RAV4 prioritize reliability and resale value; the CX-5 focuses on driving dynamics and interior design.

In terms of cargo space, the Cherokee (54.9 cubic feet) trails the CR-V (76.5 cubic feet) and RAV4 (76.3 cubic feet) but matches the CX-5 (54.4 cubic feet). Fuel economy is competitive across the segment when comparing turbo engines to turbo engines and V6 to V6. Warranty coverage is similar: Jeep offers a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, matching most competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Trailhawk and other Cherokee trims?

The Trailhawk comes standard with all-wheel drive, a higher suspension, all-terrain tires, and a multi-mode transfer case with Rock and Snow modes. Other trims focus on comfort and technology rather than off-road capability. Choose Trailhawk if you plan to drive on unpaved roads or in harsh weather; choose other trims if you primarily drive on pavement.

Should I get the turbo four-cylinder or the V6?

The turbo four-cylinder saves roughly $1,500 to $2,000 upfront and delivers better fuel economy by three to five miles per gallon. The V6 provides more towing capacity (4,500 versus 3,500 pounds) and slightly more power for acceleration. If you tow regularly or want maximum power, the V6 makes sense; otherwise, the turbo is the more economical choice.

Does the new Cherokee have a hybrid option?

No, Jeep does not currently offer a hybrid version of the Cherokee. The turbo four-cylinder is the most fuel-efficient gasoline option available. If fuel economy is your primary concern, compare the Cherokee's turbo numbers to hybrid competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid before deciding.

Is the Cherokee good for towing?

The Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds with the V6 engine and all-wheel drive, or 3,500 pounds with the turbo four-cylinder. This is adequate for small trailers, jet skis, or lightweight boats, but falls short of larger travel trailers. Check your specific towing needs against these limits before purchasing.

What warranty does the new Cherokee come with?

Jeep covers the Cherokee with a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This matches most competitors in the segment. Extended warranties are available through Jeep dealers for additional cost and coverage beyond the standard terms.