Jeep Cherokee

The 2023 Jeep Cherokee’s off-road capability is an exception in the class, but that is the lone stand-out highlight of this aging small ute. A reduced lineup, subpar cargo space, a weak base engine and a mediocre transmission limit its everyday livability and overall appeal. The 2023 Jeep Cherokee has great off-road abilities, a composed ride and a peppy optional turbocharged engine, but its standard engine and transmission hamper performance overall.

Engine Options, Horsepower and Acceleration

• Base engine: 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque
• Available engine: turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque
• Drivetrain: four-wheel drive (Jeep Active Drive I standard in base model; Jeep Active Drive II with Active Drive Lock standard in Trailhawk)
• Transmission: nine-speed automatic

The Cherokee’s standard four-cylinder engine feels underpowered in most driving scenarios, and the automatic transmission earns derision for its ill-timed and unrefined shifts. Though there’s a bit of turbo lag with the optional engine, it proves capable once at speed.

MPG Estimates

The 2023 Cherokee with the naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is low for the compact SUV class. The turbocharged Cherokee Trailhawk returns estimates of 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Braking

The Cherokee feels solid and maintains a pleasing ride quality over most types of pavement. The brakes offer average stopping power.

The 2023 Jeep Cherokee comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.