2019 Jeep Cherokee Review: Off-Road Prowess Meets Everyday Practicality

The Jeep Cherokee Paradox: Love Despite Flaws

The Jeep Cherokee presents automotive enthusiasts with a fascinating contradiction - a vehicle that inspires genuine affection despite notable mechanical shortcomings. Our long-term experience with a 2014 model revealed both the Cherokee's enduring appeal and its most frustrating limitation: the much-maligned nine-speed automatic transmission. Even after an unexpected engine replacement, our team maintained appreciation for this midsize SUV's character, though we unanimously agreed we wouldn't purchase another.

The 2019 refresh presented Jeep with an opportunity to address these concerns while enhancing the Cherokee's strengths. This comprehensive review examines whether the updates successfully elevate the Cherokee above its previous limitations while maintaining its off-road superiority and everyday practicality.

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Powertrain Improvements: New Turbo Engine Option

The most significant mechanical update for 2019 comes in the form of an all-new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This powerplant delivers impressive specifications:

• 270 horsepower (1 hp less than the Pentastar V-6)
• 295 lb-ft of torque (56 lb-ft more than the V-6)
• Peak torque available from 3,000-4,500 rpm
• Optional on all trims except base Latitude

In real-world testing, the turbocharged engine transforms the Cherokee's acceleration characteristics. The abundant low-end torque makes stoplight starts noticeably more responsive, and the power delivery feels more immediate throughout the rev range compared to both the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder and the 3.2-liter V-6.

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The Persistent Transmission Problem

Despite the new engine's improvements, the ZF-sourced nine-speed automatic transmission remains the Cherokee's most significant weak point. Our testing revealed:

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• Reduced but Not Eliminated Lag: Downshift delays remain apparent, especially during highway passing maneuvers
• Improved Low-Speed Behavior: Around-town driving shows better responsiveness
• Safety Concerns: 2-3 second delay during emergency acceleration scenarios

This transmission has proven problematic across multiple FCA vehicles and other manufacturers' models. While the turbo engine's abundant torque helps mask some issues by reducing the need for frequent downshifts, the fundamental programming and mechanical limitations remain.

When compared to competitors' transmissions - whether conventional automatics like Volkswagen's excellent eight-speed or the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) used by Subaru and Honda - the Cherokee's gearbox feels decidedly outdated in its operation.

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Unmatched Off-Road Capability

Where the Cherokee truly shines is in its off-road performance, particularly in Trailhawk trim. Jeep has equipped this variant with serious off-road hardware:

• Active Drive Lock 4WD: Combines low-range gearing with locking rear differential
• Selec-Terrain System: Auto, Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud and Rock modes
• Enhanced Approach/Departure Angles: Special bumpers improve off-road geometry
• 8.7-inch Ground Clearance: Significant for an independent suspension vehicle

During comparative testing with the legendary Wrangler Rubicon, the Cherokee Trailhawk demonstrated nearly equivalent capability in most situations. While it can't match the Wrangler's ultimate articulation or rock-crawling prowess (due to its independent suspension), it outperforms every other vehicle in its price class by a wide margin.

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Refined On-Road Manners

When the pavement returns, the Cherokee transitions comfortably back to civilized behavior:

• Compliant Ride Quality: Well-tuned suspension absorbs bumps effectively
• Confident Handling: Neutral steering response for an SUV
• Quiet Cabin: Minimal wind noise (though Trailhawk tires produce some roar)
• Excellent Braking: Linear pedal feel with strong stopping power

The 2019 refresh brought subtle but welcome interior upgrades, including more premium finishes and improved storage solutions. The Cherokee's cabin strikes an excellent balance between rugged Jeep character and modern comfort expectations.

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Technology & Infotainment

Jeep's Uconnect system remains one of the industry's best infotainment solutions:

• Available 8.4-inch Touchscreen: Crisp display with intuitive menus
• Standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Seamless smartphone integration
• Physical Controls Retained: Proper buttons for climate and audio functions
• Available Navigation: Optional on higher trims

While we experienced some Android Auto connectivity issues during testing, these appeared related to phone software rather than the vehicle's system. An app update during our evaluation period significantly improved performance.

Practical Considerations

Passenger Space

The Cherokee offers competitive interior dimensions that straddle the compact and midsize segments:

• Generous Rear Legroom: 40.3 inches (more than Forester, Outback, and Tiguan)
• Adjustable Rear Seat: Slides fore/aft up to 5 inches
• Comfortable Headroom: Adequate even with available panoramic moonroof
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Cargo Capacity

While the 2019 refresh increased cargo space slightly, it remains modest for the class:

• Behind Rear Seats: 25.8 cubic feet (smaller than most competitors)
• Maximum Capacity: 54.9 cubic feet (significantly less than segment leaders)
• Useful Features: Underfloor storage, 60/40 split folding seats

Safety & Reliability

The 2019 Cherokee offers modern safety technology but carries some concerns:

Crash Protection

• Improved Structure: Jeep claims enhancements to small overlap protection
• Standard Backup Camera: Meets federal requirements
• Available Advanced Features: Includes adaptive cruise, automatic emergency braking
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Potential Concerns

• Transmission Reliability: Long-term durability questions remain
• Turbo Maintenance: Potential for higher long-term costs
• Electrical Systems: Some infotainment glitches reported

Competitive Landscape

How the Cherokee compares to key rivals:

Subaru Forester

• Advantages: Better fuel economy, standard AWD, more cargo space
• Disadvantages: Less powerful, inferior off-road capability

Volkswagen Tiguan

• Advantages: Superior transmission, third-row option, longer warranty
• Disadvantages: Less torque, not as capable off-road

Honda CR-V

• Advantages: Excellent fuel economy, spacious interior, strong reliability
• Disadvantages: CVT transmission, limited off-road ability
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Final Verdict

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee presents a compelling but flawed package. Its strengths are significant:

• Class-leading off-road capability (especially Trailhawk models)
• Strong turbocharged engine option
• Comfortable, well-equipped interior
• Made in America (Belvidere, Illinois assembly)

However, the persistent transmission issues and modest cargo capacity give pause. For buyers who prioritize off-road ability or simply love the Jeep brand, the Cherokee remains a strong choice - especially with the new turbo engine. More mainstream shoppers might find better value elsewhere.

Ultimately, the Cherokee's unique character and capability make it easy to forgive some flaws, but we hope future iterations will finally address the transmission shortcomings that have plagued this otherwise excellent SUV for years.

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