2022 Jeep Cherokee Pros Vs Cons. Should You Buy?

When hunting for a new small SUV, drivers will have many options to choose from. While this segment is ultra-competitive, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee has some traits that help separate it from the crowd. Not only does the Cherokee have an impressive towing capacity for the class, but it’s also more adventurous than the typical crossover. Meanwhile, sufficient legroom and a good amount of standard safety tech make this SUV an appealing family hauler.

What’s New for 2022?

A new X trim level has hit the lineup, which comes equipped with some appealing off-road features. For 2022, Jeep has also made the Cherokee’s larger 8.4-inch touchscreen a standard feature. Meanwhile, the range-topping Limited trim now comes standard with an AWD system. Last year’s less powerful four-cylinder engine is no longer offered.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Jeep Cherokee – The Pros

1. More Affordable Than a Jeep Grand Cherokee

The redesigned 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a nice vehicle. However, car shoppers can save some money by opting to buy the smaller Cherokee. Its starting MSRP is lower. Although the Cherokee may not offer quite as many premium features, buyers won’t have to make any big sacrifices. Most people will find the Cherokee to be a satisfying family vehicle. Like its larger sibling, the Cherokee receives a 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2. Optional Turbo Four-Cylinder Offers Power & Efficiency

While last year’s standard four-cylinder engine was adequate for daily commuting, it was not known for delivering a strong performance. Many car reviewers consider the available turbo four-cylinder engine to be far better. It generates a more than adequate 270 horsepower, which enables drivers to enjoy much livelier acceleration. Luckily, the turbocharged Cherokee has a competitive fuel economy rating of 23 mpg town/31 mpg freeway. Previous models equipped with the base engine were actually just a touch less efficient.

3. V6 Engine Packs Great Pulling Power

Another option for the Cherokee is Jeep’s standard Pentastar V6 engine. It kicks out an ample 271 horsepower. When hauling around a cabin full of passengers and cargo, drivers will appreciate the extra muscle resting under the hood. Off-roaders will also have more power for climbing hills. Furthermore, the V6 engine has the lineup’s best tow rating. You will be able to tow up to a 4,500-pound load, thus putting the Cherokee among the strongest models in the class.

4. Impressive Off-Road Chops

The 2022 Jeep Cherokee is more rugged than the typical crossover. Families who have a passion for outdoor adventure will especially appreciate this SUV’s off-road chops. When conditions become rough, most rivals can't keep up with the Cherokee. While the new X trim is capable enough to handle most expeditions, Jeep engineers the Trailhawk trim to tackle more challenging landscapes. Aside from receiving an upgraded Active Drive II AWD system, it also comes equipped with off-road shocks and metal skid plates.

5. Premium-Looking Exterior Design

This vehicle has a premium look. When seeing the 2022 Jeep Cherokee on the road, many people may initially think it's a more high-end model. Jeep’s trademark seven-slot grille gives the front fascia a familiar appearance. Like the Trailhawk trim, the all-new X trim features an additional number of rugged treatments. Dual exhaust pipes give the rear fascia a more powerful look. Exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and chrome tow hooks are optional on the more upscale Limited trim.

6. Well-Designed Uconnect Infotainment System

Few SUVs in the class have an infotainment system that’s as good. Jeep’s impressive Uconnect system gets top marks for its ease of use. The interface’s simple layout enables new users to quickly learn the ropes. Big buttons and knobs make operation even more effortless. Every trim now receives a larger 8.4-inch touch display, which is easier to view. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, buyers can upgrade the system with navigation.

7. Relaxing Family Hauler

The new 2022 Jeep Cherokee is a highly recommended pick for families. Many reviewers find its seats to be quite comfortable. During the winter, available heating modes give the seats a toasty feel. Even the Cherokee’s climate control system does a good job of keeping the cabin at your preferred temperature. There’s also enough room to please taller family members. When sitting in the rear, occupants will have a tad more than 40 inches of leg space.

8. Offers Supportive Safety Technologies

Modern safety technologies help Cherokee drivers to avoid road hazards. The standard blind-spot sensing system can be set to provide visual and audible warnings. If the driver doesn’t react quickly enough when approaching an obstacle, Jeep’s forward collision system will intervene. Rear parking sensors and lane departure alert also come standard. Designed to automatically adjust the vehicle’s speed based on the flow of traffic, available adaptive cruise control seeks to further limit driving stress.

9. Active Park Assist

Many drivers consider parking to be a challenging event, especially in crowded areas. Fortunately, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee offers Active Park Assist. Not only can this system identify a suitable parking space, but it will also steer the SUV into the selected space. Active Park Assist helps with parallel and perpendicular parking maneuvers.

10. Trailer Tow Group Package

The Cherokee comes standard with a trailer sway control, which enhances stability. Drivers who plan to pull a load will also want Jeep’s optional Trailer Tow Group Package. It helps prevent the powertrain from overheating by upgrading the SUV’s cooling system. A Class III hitch receiver and a trailer tow wiring harness are included as well.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Jeep Cherokee – The Cons

1. Automatic Transmission Could Be Better

Every new 2022 Jeep Cherokee uses a nine-speed automatic transmission. Unfortunately, some test drivers have noticed this transmission isn't as responsive as they would like. It often feels a bit sluggish when shifting. Other models, such as the Mazda CX-5, have a quicker-shifting gearbox.

2. Higher Starting Price

Jeep has removed last year’s lowest-priced trims from the lineup. This means Cherokee buyers must prepare to shell out more money. Although the SUV now comes loaded with a better collection of standard features, some car shoppers will find the new Cherokee to be a tad too costly for their budget. Its starting MSRP has increased by roughly $6,000.

3. Provides Less Cargo Space Than Some Rivals

The Cherokee provides enough cargo space for the typical American family. However, many of the Cherokee’s competitors have a bigger storage area. This could be a factor for drivers who need to routinely carry around a lot of extra gear.

4. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Is More Rugged

In terms of off-road prowess, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee is among the most capable models in the class. Nonetheless, this crossover’s car-based design still limits its ability to tackle more hardcore terrain. Serious adventure seekers may want the tougher Grand Cherokee.

5. Just Average Fuel Economy for the Class

Most commuters will not have any major complaints about the Cherokee’s overall efficiency. However, there are other models in the segment with a higher fuel economy rating. For instance, the Honda CR-V can return up to 28 mpg in urban areas and 34 mpg on the highway. By comparison, the turbocharged Cherokee has a top rating of 23 mpg town/31 mpg freeway.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Jeep Cherokee vs 2022 Honda CR-V

Car shoppers recognize the Honda CR-V as one of the segment’s best-selling models. It’s practical, efficient, and delivers a satisfying performance. However, the CR-V can’t match the Cherokee’s off-road prowess. A stout V6 engine also makes the Cherokee a more suitable vehicle for towing. Furthermore, some people may prefer the Cherokee’s more rugged styling.

2022 Jeep Cherokee vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

When it comes to overall sportiness, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 is hard to beat. It also has an especially upscale interior. Drivers who crave off-road adventure will be happier with the more rugged Cherokee. Not only is there more overall passenger room inside the Cherokee, but it also now has a much stronger base engine.

2022 Jeep Cherokee vs 2022 Subaru Forester

The 2022 Subaru Forester is an excellent option. Drivers praise this SUV for its extensive list of standard safety features and outstanding comfort. Both of these small SUVs can be taken off the beaten path. However, a less potent base engine causes the Forester to sacrifice some performance. While some people like the Forester’s understated exterior styling, others find it to be just a bit too plain.

Conclusion

Drivers in the market for an adventurous small SUV will like the new 2022 Jeep Cherokee. It has no trouble tackling most off-road trails. Strong engines and stable handling also make the Cherokee pleasing to drive. Families will especially enjoy relaxing in the SUV’s spacious cabin. This year, every trim level features Jeep’s popular 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen.

While the Cherokee excels in many areas, there are just a few cons to consider. Budget-minded car shoppers should take note of the 2022 model’s higher starting MSRP. While the Cherokee’s fuel efficiency is decent, some competitors will save you more money at the pump.