The 2017 Jeep Cherokee treads the line between a family vehicle and an off-road warrior. Sadly, a number of issues related to its powertrain have left a bad taste in the mouth of even the most hardcore Jeep enthusiasts.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
2017 Jeep Cherokee: Quick Overview
- The 2017 Cherokee offers many neat features that make it a go-to vehicle for outdoor enthusiasts, like Jeep’s Cargo Management System, roof racks, and the fold-flat front passenger seat are notably helpful in making up for the limited rear cargo space.
- Prices for a used 2017 Cherokee run from about $14,000-$24,000 depending on condition and trim. This puts it about even with competitors such as the RAV4 on the used market.
- The 2017 Cherokee is also offered in an off-road-inspired Trailhawk trim utilizing the 3.2-liter 271-hp V6.
- Reliability seems to be the Achilles’ heel of this model year, much due to the 2.4-liter I4 Tigershark engine.
- Safety was adequate and nothing to write home about earning a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and offering minimal active safety features on lower-level trims.
With Nine Available Trim Levels, the 2017 Cherokee Offers a Little Something for Every Driver’s Needs
Jeep provided nine trims for the 2017 Cherokee. Each trim (excluding the Cherokee Overland 4×4) came standard with the 2.4L I4 Tigershark engine, nine-speed automatic transmission, and was available in 4×4 and FWD configurations, with the exception of the Cherokee Trailhawk and Trailhawk L Plus, which were exclusively 4×4.
Cherokee Sport Features 17″ Wheels as Standard but Charges Extra for AC
The Cherokee Sport is the base model for 2017. One notably absent feature is air conditioning, but it was an option, so it shouldn’t be hard to find a base model with AC. Cherokee Sport features active grille shutters, trailer sway control, LED running lamps, and a five-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Other notable features include Jeep Cargo Management System, LED taillamps, and 17-inch steel wheels. If you don’t need much in the way of creature comforts but want utility and style, Cherokee Sport is a solid choice.
Cherokee Altitude Adds Upgraded Off-road System & 8.4″ Screen
Cherokee Altitude steps up the look and capability of the Cherokee by adding 18-inch gloss-black aluminum wheels, Jeep Active Drive I, and the Selec-Terrain system. The High Altitude is a special-edition version of the Altitude and features heated, leather-trimmed seats and heated leather steering wheel, an upgraded 8.4″ Uconnect infotainment system, and a keyless entry system. Outside, the vehicle is adorned with gloss black accent pieces on the roof rails, grille, and wheels.
Cherokee Latitude Features Fold-flat Front Seats for the Ultimate Weekend Camping SUV
The Latitude is a great vehicle for easy-going car campers. It features a fold-flat front passenger seat that makes for easy accommodation of items like paddles or fishing poles and can also double as a makeshift table. Additionally, Latitude features three 12-volt outlets, 17″ aluminum wheels, a 115-volt aux power outlet, premium cloth seats, and automatic headlamps.
Cherokee Limited Adds Extra Creature Comforts & Aesthetic Upgrades Like Leather-trimmed Seats & 18″ Wheels
Cherokee Limited adds a heated steering wheel and front seats, leather-trimmed bucket seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone climate controls, and 18″ aluminum wheels. If you live in a colder climate or are looking for a small amount of luxury, Cherokee Limited might be the one for you.
Cherokee Trailhawk Takes Off-road Prowess to a Whole New Level
Cherokee Trailhawk is by far the most capable Cherokee trim and comes only in the 4×4 configuration. To give the Trailhawk its powerful off-road capabilities, Jeep added 17×7.5″ wheels, all-terrain tires, skid plates, tow hooks, and a 1″ lift. Additionally, the Trailhawk adds Jeep Drive II, Selec-Speed crawl control, a seven-inch customizable instrument cluster, uniquely styled seating, a cargo net, and more.
Also, keep in mind that the Trailhawk trims come standard with the Off-Road package. Features include locking rear differential, front suspension, fuel tank, transmission, and underbody skid plates. If you need an extremely capable family SUV, Trailhawk and Trailhawk L Plus will best serve your needs.
Cherokee Overland Delivers Total Luxury without Sacrificing on Capability
Cherokee Overland is the top-of-the-line trim. The Overland is the only trim that comes standard with the larger 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 (standard in 4×4 only). Cherokee Overland also adds heated and ventilated leather seats with memory, interior wood trim, and 8.4″ Uconnect infotainment system. In Cherokee Overland, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert come standard as well. The trim also includes auto stop/start engine technology (V6 only), vehicle alarm, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. If you’re looking for a lot of luxury in your truck, the Cherokee Overland is a solid choice.
2017 Cherokee is a Budget-friendly Off-Roader Ranging from $14,000 to $24,000
According to KBB values, 2017 Cherokees with standard equipment, 69k miles, in very good condition should cost you between $14,000 to $24,000, depending on the trim. Base model Cherokee Sports should run you about $14,800 in a private sale or $16,000 from a dealer. A more popular Latitude will run you around $17,500 private/$19,000 dealer. Lastly, Cherokee Trailhawk and Overland trims are valued near $24,000 from the dealer and $22,000 in a private sale.
When shopping for a CPO Cherokee at a dealer, expect to pay about $700 more per KBB. On CPOs, Jeep extends the remaining powertrain warranty to seven-years/100,000-miles and adds a three-month/3,000-mile warranty that begins with the most recent sales after certification.
2017 Jeep Cherokee is Offered with Four Different Engine Options
The 2017 Cherokee offers four engine options, three being different variants of its 2.4-liter I4 Tigershark engine. These include the regular version, one that was PZEV (Partial Zero-emissions Vehicle), and one that was Flex-fuel capable.
Known as the “Tigershark” engine, this powerplant boasts 184 hp and 171 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is nearly a decade old, having been in production since 2012. The PZEV variant features emissions-focused additions such as a unique fuel tank, fuel lines, filler neck, air cleaner, evap purge canisters, and more.
If you need a bit more power, search for a Cherokee with the 3.2-liter Pentastar V6. The Pentastar V6 makes 271 hp and 239 lb.-ft. of torque to help with those difficult off-road trails. In production since 2014, the 3.2-liter Pentastar has been optimized for fuel efficiency with low-friction pistons, new rods, and smaller sleeves, journals, and bearings for less rolling resistance. Furthermore, the Pentastar consists of an aluminum block and head and can use e85 or Regular 87 fuel.
Both engines are paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission and are capable of towing up to 2,000 pounds. A further 2,500 pounds can be towed with the addition of the tow package.
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Delivers as Much as 32 MPG at Highway Speeds with 2.5-liter Engine
Fuel economy in the 2017 Cherokee ranges from a low of 14 mpg city to a high of 30 mpg hwy. The best fuel economy can be found in the 2.4-liter Tigershark FWD platform with ratings of 21 city / 30 hwy.
The 2.4-liter and 3.2-liter are fueled by regular and midgrade gasoline respectively while the 2.4-liter offers a Flex-Fuel engine option. Currently, there is not enough data for the EPA to compile real-world mpg averages from owners. Similarly, mileage tracking site Fuelly has very limited data for each Cherokee configuration, but rates the 2.4-liter Latitude as averaging 21.11 mpg from a sample size of only five vehicles.
2017 Jeep Cherokee Offers Quick & Nimble Driving Performance
Most owners won’t need more power than what Cherokee already provides, despite lacking a turbo option. For a compact SUV, the Cherokee is particularly quick in the Trailhawk trim making 0-60 in 6.2 seconds thanks in part to its 271 hp and 239 lb.-ft. of torque. Bringing things to a halt in the Trailhawk is no issue either making the stop from 60-0 in 135 feet.
2017 Cherokee Handles Off-roading with Ultra-smooth Crawl Control
According to host Alex Dykes of Alex on Autos, the 2017 Cherokee offers a low-ratio capability that simply can’t be found in any other vehicle in the segment. This is possible due to a 2-speed transfer case upfront and an additional transfer case in the rear. Furthermore, the Cherokee utilizes a transverse engine layout with an open differential up front, locking center coupling, and locking rear differential in the Trailhawk 4×4.
Additionally, Dykes notes the Cherokee’s stellar ride quality, better than average handling, and its ultra-smooth crawl control. “The crawl control systems operate very similarly to those in the Grand Cherokee,” explains Dykes “These are among the smoothest in the industry, much smoother than anything that you see in the Tacoma or 4Runner from Toyota.” Also in regards to the crawl control system, Dykes explains that the Cherokee offers a usability range of 0.6 mph up to 5.6 mph.
Unfortunately, Cherokee wasn’t able to hit all the marks as Dykes points out that the vehicle suffers from a poor turning radius. And, while not a major issue, the Trailhawk manages to be the slowest of the Cherokee trims, but still very quick for the segment adds Dykes.
2017 Jeep Cherokee: Cargo Space & Dimensions are Below Average & Less than Competitors
The 2017 Cherokee does its best to squeeze every bit of cargo space that it can out of its 182″ L x 73-75″ W x 66-68″ H dimensions. Unfortunately, it’s just not enough, offering below-average cargo space — and the RAV4 and CR-V each beating it by 16 feet. Cargo space measures out to 24.6 feet and up to 58.9 feet with the rear seats down.
The Cherokee seats five total and features 60/40-split rear folding seats that also have the ability to slide forward and back for additional cargo room. Front-row occupants are given 41.1″ of legroom while those in the rear receive 40.3″ and 49.9″ of leg and hip room respectively, comfortable for most taller passengers.
The 2017 Cherokee is not the most spacious in terms of cargo area. Nevertheless, the Cherokee makes up for it with useful features such as the Jeep Cargo Management System (universal module rack, hooks, removable grocery bag, and more) and several storage cubbies.
2017 Jeep Cherokee Scored Four out of Five Stars for Safety
Safety in the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is a bit average but decent, earning four stars (out of five) from the NHTSA for overall safety. Notably, it received four stars in frontal crash and rollover categories as well as five stars in all side-crash categories.
Plus, adding peace of mind are the vehicle’s safety features, which include blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear parking sensors.
The Cherokee did, however, miss out on an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2017. However, it did receive a “Superior” rating for its front crash prevention. The IIHS scored the Cherokee as “Good” in areas like roof strength, moderate overlap front collision, and side collision. The Cherokee scored ‘Marginal’ for small overlap driver’s side impacts and headlights.
Overall, the evidence bears out that the 2017 Cherokee, while not dangerous, is a long way from being the safest vehicle in the segment. If safety is your top priority, the Cherokee is assuredly not the vehicle for you.
Technology Features Include Safety Tech Package with Blind-spot Monitoring, Heated Side Mirrors
For 2017, Jeep offered a wide variety of technology features, from phone connectivity and safety to parking assist and crawl control. In the Safety Tech Package, the Cherokee receives blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, and heated side mirrors. Limited and Trailhawk trims can receive additional features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning system with automatic braking, lane-departure warning, and parallel parking assist in the Technology Group Package.
Sadly, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not offered in the Cherokee until the 2020 model year. Cherokee’s Uconnect system does allow for Bluetooth phone connectivity however and offers features such as Garmin maps, Travel Link with gas prices, movie listings, sports info, live radio playback, and a 3g hotspot. Other features in the Cherokee include auto start-stop technology (3.2-liter V6 only), selectable low-range mode, and crawl control.
2017 Jeep Cherokee Comes in 10 Exciting Exterior Colors, including Rhino and Firecracker Red
Exterior Color Choices
Outside, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee can be had in 10 colors, most of which look fantastic on the vehicle. Some standout colors include Deep Cherry Red Pearl, Recon Green, Hydro Blue Pearl, Firecracker Red, and Rhino.
Interior Color Choices
Inside, the varying trims offer Black or Light Frost Beige options in cloth or premium seats. Brown leather is available on the Trailhawk L Plus and the Overland is available with Brown or Pearl leather. Perhaps the best-looking interior option however goes to the Indigo Blue on the Cherokee Limited.
2017 Cherokee’s Cost to Own is Below Average
Maintenance costs in the 2017 Cherokee run about average compared to other compact SUVs at $428 per year. Unscheduled repairs occur around two times per year, below the average of three for similar SUVs. Furthermore, the average repair cost for a 2017 Cherokee is between $385 and $471, according to Repair Pal.
Most 2017 Cherokee owners can expect their most expensive repair to be a Transfer Case Shift Motor replacement, which costs $888-$990. The Cherokee earned a four/five reliability rating from Repair Pal, placing it ninth place out of 26 for compact SUVs.
Moreover, the average annual repair cost for the 2017 Cherokee sits below average at $520. The likelihood of a necessary repair being a major issue comes to 12%, which is just above the 11% average for comparable SUVs.
Although these figures are good, Jeep ranked 30th out of 31 major automakers in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study for 2017. This suggests the reliability may prove to be short-lived as the vehicle ages.
2017 Jeep Cherokee: Safety Recalls & Common Problems
Four NHTSA Recalls are not too Serious but Worth Considering
To date, the NHTSA has four recalls listed for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee. Reportedly, some 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed power transfer unit run a risk of power that cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission This results in a loss of drive while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the “park” function while stationary. Another recall reported that the cruise control unit may fail to cancel, leading to a higher likelihood of a crash.
Also, a third recall notes the driver’s airbag may have improper welds in the inflator module that may result in a failure to deploy. The fourth recall relates to missing tire and rim designation information that may lead to an incompatible wheel and tire setup, which increases the likelihood of a collision.
Common Issues Include Excessive Oil Consumption & Premature Wear
Perhaps most egregious, however, is the 2.4-liter’s oil consumption issues. One owner reported consuming a quart every 500 miles. This and other derivative issues have lead to a class-action suit being filed on behalf of owners with the 2.4-liter Tigershark engine. Oil consumption, premature wear, and unintended engine shutoff are the most common problems.
In one owner’s report on Car Complaints, they explain the utter danger presented by the engine issues. “When driving and making a right or left turn, an error message pops up on the screen stating ‘can not switch gears while in drive’, then the engine shuts off, it has happened to me six+ times in the last month, it has happened in the middle of a left turn in a busy intersection three times and almost caused an accident… This is so unsafe and I am afraid every time I drive…”
2017 Cherokee vs. Toyota RAV4 & Honda CR-V
Cherokee faced tough perennial competition in 2017. Competitors like RAV4 and CR-V filled different needs and were less capable on the trail, but still claimed better sales in the segment.
2017 Toyota RAV4 is Less-capable Off-road, but a Better Overall Daily Driver
For 2017, the RAV4 had a lot to offer. Some of the top marks for this year include its superior reliability and excellent standard active safety tech.
The 2017 RAV4 also managed to offer a hybrid option, something Cherokee has yet to do. On the downside, however, the RAV4 offers less legroom and is notably less capable off-road. Being closer to the ground, less powerful, and only offering a center locking differential, the RAV4 simply can’t compete when taken off the blacktop.
The RAV4 makes 176 hp and 172 lb.-ft. of torque and only offers a single engine option. However, the hybrid model adds two electric motors bringing the power total up to 194 hp and 152 lb.-ft. of torque. And let’s not forget that that RAV4 hybrid earns an impressive 32 mpg combined.
Safety in the 2017 RAV4 is excellent, earning it a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Much of the prestige is due to RAV4’s Toyota Safety Sense suite of active safety features which are standard across all RAV4 trims.
If you’re okay with forgoing the extra off-road capability and engine power and need something safer, more reliable, and better on gas, go with the RAV4.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
2017 Honda CR-V is an Established Nameplate that Excels in Most Areas
The Honda CR-V is another heavy hitter in the compact SUV segment, but it’s far from trouble-free. Car Complaints gave it the dreaded “Beware of the Clunker” badge due to its gasoline-oil-mixing woes in the 1.5-liter turbo and defective climate controls.
The CR-V is slower, in part due to its CVT transmission, but makes up for it with great fuel economy. At its peak, CR-V attains 30 mpg combined, all without a hybrid engine.
Another high point for the CR-V is its cargo capacity. As noted previously in this article, the 2017 CR-V outclasses the Cherokee by a whopping 16 feet. Additionally, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the EX trim and above.
The CR-V features two engine options for 2017. The 2.4-liter Earth Dreams engine makes 184 hp and 180 lb.-ft. of torque. Its 1.5-liter turbo counterpart makes a bit more power at 190 hp 179 lb.-ft. of torque. Regrettably, neither engine makes enough power to challenge Cherokee’s 0-60 time, settling for a mediocre 7.5 seconds.
If you need the extra cargo space and want something a bit more well-rounded, the 2017 CR-V is the SUV for you.
To see a more detailed side-by-side comparison between these vehicles, check out this Vehicle History coverage.
Should You Consider Buying a 2017 Jeep Cherokee?
The 2017 Cherokee may just fit the bill for the outdoor enthusiast. It makes for an excellent off-roader and features plenty of power in the V6 while maintaining a ride comfort that is second-to-none in its class.
But the Cherokee is not without its flaws. The standard 2.4-liter Tigershark engine, electrical, and transmission issues have proven problematic for many owners. It also lacks some basic modern tech (AC, active safety, etc.) in the lowest trims, cargo space is limited, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available.
Nevertheless, Cherokee’s charm and utility go a long way. We recommend this SUV for the hardcore outdoor enthusiast under one condition: get the V6.
Photos: Jeep, Toyota, and Honda
