2021 Jeep Cherokee

What Is the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?

The Jeep Cherokee compact SUV comes with four-cylinder or V-6 power, along with front-wheel drive or a choice of three four-wheel-drive systems. All versions use a nine-speed automatic transmission and seat up to five. While certain Cherokee models have more off-road capability than the norm in their class, most versions compete with on-road-focused small SUVs like the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue.

What’s New on the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?

Newly standard active safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist and blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert. Rain-sensing windshield wipers and heated side mirrors are also standard. 

There’s a new Latitude Lux trim level with Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start and a windshield-wiper deicer. An 80th Anniversary Edition based on the Lux trim features a panoramic moonroof, 19-inch wheels with a granite-crystal finish, dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8.4-inch touchscreen multimedia system and special badging and trim. 

What Features in the 2021 Jeep Cherokee Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

• 17-inch aluminum wheels
• Air conditioning
• Cloth upholstery
• 60/40-split rear seat
• 7-inch touchscreen multimedia system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity

Available features include:

• Hands-free power liftgate
• Automatic high-beam headlights
• Sliding rear seat
• Alpine premium stereo
• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability

Should I Buy the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?

If you’re looking for a five-seat SUV with true off-road capability, the Jeep Cherokee should be at the top of your shopping list. The Trailhawk model has an appetite for rocky roads and mud-splattered adventure. Seating is comfortable in the front and back, though many rivals offer more cargo space. The Uconnect multimedia system is also one of the best on the market; it’s simple to use and takes only a few moments to master. That said, we’d recommend skipping the base four-cylinder engine; it’s underwhelming and overshadowed by the more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder and V-6 engines.