Choosing a small crossover SUV for your next vehicle purchase shouldn’t mean skimping on utility. Fortunately, with multiple Jeep Cherokee models available, you shouldn’t have to make any sacrifices.
What Cherokee models does Jeep make?
- Latitude: $25,480 – $27,340
- Latitude Plus: $27,595 – $29,095
- Limited: $31,600 – $34,845
- Trailhawk: $34,755 – $37,950
- Overland: $36,995 – $38,495
Which 2020 Jeep Cherokee model is right for you? Of the 5 trims, which has the greatest off-roading capabilities and performance, and which is the most luxuriously appointed? We’ll cover this and much more to inform your purchase!
Jeep Cherokee Latitude: $25,480 – $27,340
The base model on the 2020 Cherokee is the Latitude, which is available with either front- or all-wheel-drive (AWD). Opting for an AWD model will bring you to the $27,340 MSRP, but it might be worth it (depending on your climate).
What Sets it Apart?
Standard equipment on every Cherokee Latitude is relatively generous, especially when you consider that this is the base model. Some of the most notable standard features include:
- Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity
- 17-inch wheels
- A six-speaker sound system
- A seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Key Specs
- EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg combined (with standard 2.4L engine and FWD) or 23 mpg combined (with optional 3.2L engine and FWD)
- Front- or AWD configurations available
- Two engine options: a standard 2.4L four-cylinder (180 hp) and an optional 3.2L V6 (271 hp)
- Towing capacity: 2,000 pounds
Safety Features & Ratings
Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus: $27,595 – $29,095
Next in the line-up is the Latitude Plus, which starts at just a slightly higher price tag than the base Latitude and includes the same front- or AWD and powertrain offerings.
What Sets it Apart?
What accounts for the bump in price? The Latitude Plus has some upgrades inside and out, including:
- Simulated-leather seat inserts
- A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
- Satellite radio
- Keyless entry with push-button start
The Latitude Plus is also available with more available add-ons, such as automatic dual-zone climate control and remote start (if you’re willing to pay extra).
Key Specs
Overall, the Latitude Plus’ specs are about the same as the regular Latitude’s, with slightly higher towing capabilities as outlined below:
- EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg combined (with standard 2.4L engine and FWD) or 23 mpg combined (with optional 3.2L engine and FWD)
- Front- or AWD configurations available
- Two engine options: a standard 2.4L four-cylinder (180 hp) and an optional 3.2L V6 (271 hp)
- Towing capacity: 2,000 pounds – 4,500 pounds (when properly equipped)
Safety Features & Ratings
Compared to the base Latitude, the Latitude Plus also sees the addition of more standard safety equipment but maintains the same NHTSA and IIHS ratings.
Jeep Cherokee Limited: $31,600 – $34,845
Next up is the Cherokee Limited, which offers more luxury-oriented features and a new engine option.
What Sets it Apart?
In addition to most of the standard equipment from the Latitude and Latitude Plus, the Limited model also receives:
- An 8.4-inch touchscreen interface
- A premium nine-speaker sound system
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Leather upholstery
And if you want the Cherokee’s most powerful engine option, a turbocharged 2.0L, you’ll have to step up to this model (or higher).
Key Specs
You’ll notice a couple of differences in the Limited’s specs compared to the Latitude and Latitude Plus, beginning with better fuel economy numbers, an upgraded engine option, and a higher towing capacity.
- EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg combined (with standard 2.4L engine and FWD) or 26 mpg combined (with optional turbocharged engine and FWD)
- Front- or AWD configurations available
- Two engine options: a standard 2.4L four-cylinder (180 hp) and an optional turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder (270 hp)
- Towing capacity: 3,590 pounds – 4,000 pounds
Safety Features & Ratings
Meanwhile, the Limited model has the same safety features and ratings as the Latitude Plus.
Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk: $34,755 – $37,950
When off-road capability is your top priority, you won’t want to let the Trailhawk model (with its standard AWD system) pass you by.
What Sets it Apart?
This model comes exclusively with Jeep’s advanced Active Drive II AWD system for added confidence and control behind the wheel. Other features on this model include:
- Increased ground clearance
- Refined suspension tuning
- Hill ascent and descent control
- All-terrain tires with wider wheels
- Exclusive upholstery
Key Specs
- EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg combined (with V6 engine and AWD) or 22 mpg combined (with optional turbocharged engine and AWD)
- Exclusive AWD system with Active Drive II and Active Drive Lock technology
- Two engine options: a standard 3.2L V6 (271 hp) or an optional turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder (270 hp)
- Towing capacity: 2,000 pounds – 4,500 pounds
Safety Features & Ratings
From a safety perspective, the Trailhawk model is equipped similarly to the Limited model with:
Jeep Cherokee Overland: $36,995 – $38,495
If you’re looking for a Cherokee model with eye-catching exterior details and a few more interior luxuries, the Overland may be right for you. This model also ditches the standard 2.4L four-cylinder engine.
What Sets it Apart?
Some notable features on the Cherokee Overland include:
- Body-colored exterior trim
- Sound-reducing windshield and front auto glass
- Premium leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats with heated rear seats
- Built-in navigation system
Key Specs
The Overland model boasts many of the same specs as the Trailhawk, with some slight variation in fuel economy due to the fact that the Overland has available front-wheel drive.
- EPA-estimated fuel economy of 23 mpg combined (with V6 engine and FWD) or 26 mpg combined (with optional turbocharged engine and FWD)
- Front- or AWD configurations available
- Two engine options: a standard 3.2L V6 (271 hp) or an optional turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder (270 hp)
- Towing capacity: 2,000 pounds – 4,500 pounds
Safety Features & Ratings
The Overland has the same safety equipment as the Trailhawk model, with the addition of available SiriusXM Guardian’s Emergency SOS system. This model also receives the same NHTSA and IIHS safety ratings:
What Do Owners and Experts Have to Say?
As of December of 2020, the Jeep Cherokee has received an overall owner rating of 4.48/5 stars, as well as a rating of 3.5/5 stars by our independent experts.
Some of the more positive reviews for the Cherokee mention the well-equipped and comfortable interior, as well as the smooth ride and eye-catching design. Owners also seem to enjoy the available AWD system.
On the other hand, some criticisms of the Cherokee have mentioned sluggish acceleration, particularly on models equipped with the base 2.4L four-cylinder engine.
