Flash Drive

Flash Drive 2015 Jeep Cherokee

December 30, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4×4

The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is an SUV worthy of the Jeep name and heritage.
The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is an SUV worthy of the Jeep name and heritage.

Engine: 3.2-liter V-6 gas, 271 horsepower, 239 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 19/City—26/Highway—22/Combined

Base Price: $30,395

As Tested: $36,869

Performance:

Engine has start/stop feature for fuel economy

Strong V-6 engine

9-speed automatic transmission

Off-Road suspension

Highly capable on rugged off-road terrain and snow

Snow driving is one of several drive modes available on the Jeep Trailhawk.
Snow driving is one of several drive modes available on the Jeep Trailhawk.

Electronic roll mitigation

Select speed crawl control for off-road confidence

Hill descent control

Hill start assist

Minimal overhangs

Excellent ground clearance

Pleasant highway ride

Large dial on console controls multiple 4×4 modes

Comfort:

Quality interior materials, a good blend of style and practicality

Comfortable, supportive seats

Soft headrests

Super stretch-out front passenger and driver legroom

Short overhangs and excellent ground clearance show that the Cherokee was designed for adventurous driving.
Short overhangs and excellent ground clearance show that the Cherokee was designed for adventurous driving.

Passenger seat height pump

Driver power lumbar support

Excellent headroom

Thick steering wheel, OK auxiliary controls

Rear seats slide forward and back

Soft, wide backseat armrest

Utility:

Heavy-duty rubber floor mats

Medium size front door bins

Super deep, locking glove box

Small storage bin on top of dashboard

Four grab handles

Big navigation/infotainment screen

Digital and analog speedometer

Lots of info choices/monitoring functions

The well-appointed interior features outstanding front legroom.
The well-appointed interior features outstanding front legroom.

Power tailgate

Flat cargo floor

No lift-over

60/40 split rear seat folds almost flat

Hidden storage under lower cushion of front passenger seat

Very small rear door bins

One seatback storage pouch

Wow Factors:

Go anywhere off-road prowess

Great 4×4 control options

A Swiss Army knife of 4×4 modes

Outstanding front row room and comfort

A large console mounted dial controls the many driving mode choices.
A large console mounted dial controls the many driving mode choices.

Whines:

Not a fan of grille/front end styling

Bottom Line:

The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk excels at handling all types of weather and road (or no road) conditions. The Trailhawk is far more capable than most people will ever have the occasion to test. It’s also a nice, comfortable everyday commuter.