2022 Jeep Cherokee Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

Nestled within an increasingly crowded segment, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee manages to hold its own and has a long reputation as a capable off-roader - that is, if you equip it properly. And, with the all new X trim level inserted into the line-up, the Cherokee is even more versatile. But how do each of its five trim levels stack up against each other? Does one present buyers with more value than all the rest? This is probably something you are wondering as you browse through your choices for a smaller SUV. Let's take a look at what the Jeep Cherokee's five trim levels have to offer in terms of specs and features. Perhaps one will be the best fit for your needs, or perhaps you need to look elsewhere.

Compare the Altitude vs Latitude Lux Trims. What is the difference?

Up first, we have the 2022 Jeep Cherokee's base trim, which is known as the Altitude. This trim level kicks things off by offering a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that is able to generate a power output of 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. This engine gets matched up with a 9-speed automatic transmission and has front-wheel drive (FWD) as the standard drivetrain. However, on both the Altitude and Latitude Lux, you can opt up for four-wheel drive (4WD).

On the outside of the Altitude, you get standard roof rails that give the Cherokee that sporty edge. Also, this trim level rides around on 17-inch alloy wheels outfitted with all-season tires for a good amount of road grip while you drive. This vehicle does have standard keyless entry and ignition, making it easy to just slide into your Jeep and start driving.

Inside of the Altitude, you will find comfort in the heated front seats. Oh, and the steering wheel is heated too, just for an extra level of coziness. You can also use a button to adjust the power-operated driver's seat, which makes it all the easier to find a comfortable driving position behind the tilting and telescoping steering wheel.

Technology is fairly standard for this trim level. You get an 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen display with some fairly straightforward menus on the infotainment system itself. The only real downside is that some of the icons are a little too small for the liking. You also get smartphone app integration for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The built-in voice commands will let you do everything from tune your radio station to make a phone call using your smartphone. There is a six-speaker audio system included in the mix.

As far as driver aids go, the Altitude is somewhat limited. It comes with lane keep assist (which steers the vehicle back into its lane if the system detects the Cherokee straying over the line), a blind spot monitor with a rear cross-traffic alert (which alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot when you go to change lanes or are in reverse), and forward collision mitigation (which warns you of a potential upcoming crash and, if the need is sensed, applies the brakes for you).

If you decide to upgrade to the Latitude Lux trim level, you will get a nice boost in power from either of its engine options: a 3.2-liter V6 engine that can generate 271 hp and 239 lb-ft of torque or an optional turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that puts forth 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

There aren't too many noticeable changes to the Latitude Lux's exterior design, save for the fact that it has a power-operated liftgate in the back. The power liftgate makes it exponentially easier to get into your cargo area to load and unload all of your items.

Inside of the Latitude Lux trim level, you will see a few more upgrades to the overall design. The most noticeable change is undoubtedly the use of leather upholstery for the seating surfaces. It definitely looks more chic and upscale than the basic cloth trim that comes on the Altitude trim.

In terms of technology, you do get an upgraded driver information display in the cockpit. There is also a dual-zone automatic climate control system that does a decent enough job of getting to and maintaining the set temperatures in each of the two zones. The front passenger's seat gains a power adjustability function, and a household-type power outlet gets added to the Latitude Lux trim level.

Compare the Latitude Lux vs X Trim. What is the difference?

Next up in the line is the mid-tier X trim level. The X trim level was just introduced for the 2022 line-up, so this model is completely fresh off the block. On this trim level, you can only get the 3.2-liter V6 engine, which means that you cannot opt for the turbo 4-cylinder like you can on the Latitude Lux. This trim level does get upgraded to all-terrain tires for a more rugged performance. The suspension is tuned for off-roading, which also helps the Cherokee function more as an off-roading vehicle than the other two lower trim levels.

On top of that, the X trim level has extensions on the wheel well arches for better off-roading performance. There is also a rear tow hook equipped on the Cherokee X trim level.

Compare the X vs Trailhawk Trims. What is the difference?

The Trailhawk is the Jeep Cherokee's most popular trim level, and for good reason. This off-road oriented trim level is a lot like the new X trim level. They share many of the same features. However, the Trailhawk takes it a few steps further by adding even more elements designed to enhance its off-roading performance.

Like the X trim level, the Trailhawk only comes with the V6 engine option. Unlike the X, though, the Trailhawk has its own upgraded 4WD system with a locking rear axle that serves to enhance the Jeep Cherokee's traction when you take it off of the beaten path.

Up front, you get black hood decals that help to distinguish the Trailhawk from the Cherokee's other trim levels. It rides on all-terrain tires and features an upgraded suspension tuned for an improved off-roading experience. Below the vehicle, you get some underbody skid plates that, again, help to beef up the Trailhawk's off-roading performance.

Compare the Trailhawk vs Limited Trims. What is the difference?

At the very top of the 2022 Jeep Cherokee line-up is the Limited trim level. Clearly, this is the trim level that is most oriented for luxury, although Jeep doesn't go totally crazy with the luxury features on the Limited.

What you do get in terms of power is the option of sticking with the V6 engine or the turbo 4-cylinder engine. Whatever suits your needs the best, you will get an ample amount of power from the Limited trim level. There are also upgraded 18-inch wheels that the Limited rides around on.

Inside of the Limited trim level, you get a respectable amount of upgrades. The driver's seat comes with its own memory settings, and there is an automatically dimming rear-view mirror equipped too. The six-speaker sound system from the lower trim levels gets swapped out in favor of a system with nine speakers instead. Up above your head is a panoramic sunroof.

The Limited trim level does have a few more driver aids equipped on it. It comes with adaptive cruise control, which keeps a distance set by you between your Cherokee and the vehicle directly in front of it. There is also an automated parking system that can help you wiggle your way into difficult parking spots and takes some of the effort out of parking.

The Limited does offer an optional package known as the Elite. If you opt to get the Elite package equipped on the Limited trim level, you will get bigger 19-inch wheels to drive around on, ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, a built-in navigation system, and a hands-free liftgate.

The only other package that you can get at all is available for all of the trim levels. This package - known as the Trailer Tow package - gives the Jeep Cherokee an upgraded engine cooling system, a 7-pin wiring harness, and a Class III trailer hitch. Other than that, though there are no other package options available for the 2022 Jeep Cherokee.

Final Thoughts

The 2022 Jeep Cherokee is a capable off-roader, especially if you opt for either the brand-new X trim level or the well-loved Trailhawk. Truth be told, there really are no bad options when it comes to the Cherokee's trim levels. Each one has a little something to offer to the average buyer.

That being said, it is probably quite fair and accurate to assume that anyone looking to buy a Jeep Cherokee is looking for something that can handle some off-road duties. If you are not all that interested in buying the Jeep Cherokee for its off-roading duties, then you might want to stick with the Latitude Lux trim level. It is packed with features that help to justify the price level, whereas the line-topping Limited trim level does not really equip enough extras to make its cost all that easy to accept.

You might be tempted to stick with the base engine since it is cheaper to do so, but if you get the Latitude Lux, definitely opt up for the turbo 4-cylinder engine. It has a lot more pep than the standard engine, which tends to feel bland and underpowered.

Now, if you really want a trim level that is tuned for an off-roading performance, the Trailhawk is the way to go. The X trim level just doesn't offer enough features to justify the extra expense, but the Trailhawk packs in way more that is worth investing your hard-earned money in. The Trailhawk is much more fun and can handle just about whatever you throw at it while driving off of the beaten path.

All in all, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee is a solidly built small SUV that has a comfy ride quality and clear outward visibility. With a grand total of five trim levels now available, it is easy to find something that will work out for you and your needs. The Trailhawk is certainly competent as an off-roader, but any of the other four trim levels presents you with a relatively good deal. It just isn't the most spacious vehicle in its segment, nor does it have as much on-road refinement as other vehicles in its class. Think of the Jeep Cherokee as the Grand Cherokee Lite, just with a little bit less space inside of the cabin and the cargo area. If you are looking for more space, the Grand Cherokee is probably worth some consideration. Otherwise, the Cherokee should suit a wide range of buyers.