The 2016 Jeep Cherokee is no wallflower. Its looks stand out in the showroom and on the road, but don’t let its strong exterior distract you from what’s inside: a crossover with some serious power, ample cargo space and off-road capabilities.
Jeep revived the Cherokee in 2014 after a hiatus, and it came back better than ever and was even Jeep’s best-seller in 2015. The 2016 model follows suit, with five trim levels (some brand new!), better fuel economy and tech for days.
Plus, the 2016 Cherokee received best possible scores for moderate overlap frontal collision, side impact, crash protection and roof strength tests by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety.
Here’s our review of the 2016 Jeep Cherokee:
Engine
The base model has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower and 9-speed automatic transmission, and with all trim levels, drivers get to choose between front wheel drive and all wheel drive. Drivers who want a little more power under the hood can opt for upper trim models, like the four-wheel drive Overland, which have a 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine with 271 horsepower at 6,500 RPM.
On the road, drivers and passengers will enjoy a smooth, cushioned ride. But don’t let that fool you, because the Cherokee is a beast off-road and handles all terrains due to a plethora of optional off-roading features, such as lifted suspension, tow hooks and Active Drive Lock.
Jeep updated the 2016 model with an engine start-stop system on the V6, which improves EPA fuel economy and can be turned on or off.
Styling
You’ll grow to love the Cherokee’s unique exterior, with a sleek, aerodynamic roofline and minimalist (yet bright and powerful) headlamps. Inside, you’ll find a decidedly comfortable and modern cabin, with the option for Nappa leather upholstery and heated seats and steering wheel. However, reviewers say even the standard cloth seats are high quality. The rear seats recline and can slide forward for more cargo capacity.
Entertainment and Tech
For your entertainment, the 2016 Cherokee comes with standard features, including a 6-speaker audio system, 5-inch touchscreen display, USB port, SD card reader and Bluetooth connectivity. Drivers may also opt for dual-zone automatic climate control, rear cross traffic alert, Uconnect infotainment system with 8.4-inch display, 9-speaker Alpine audio system and satellite radio.
Want tech? Cherokee buyers can opt for push-button start, remote start, wireless charging pad and adaptive cruise control. For safety, the Cherokee also comes with available navigation system, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rearview camera, forward collision alert with automatic braking, active park assist and blind spot monitor.
Fuel Economy
Front wheel drive: 21 MPG city / 30 MPG highway / 25 MPG combined
All-wheel drive: 21 MPG city / 28 MPG highway / 23 MPG combined
Pricing
Starting at $23,495 MSRP