2017 Jeep Cherokee Review and Road Test | Detailed in 4K UHD!

If you want a CUV that can go off the beaten path, the Cherokee is just your best choice, it's your only choice. With class leading ground clearance and the only AWD system with a 2-speed transfer case, the Cherokee is capable of more than over the river and through the woods.
0-30 : 2.3 Seconds
0-60 : 6.7 Seconds
1/4 Mile : 14.9 Sec @ 91 MPH
60-0 Braking : 115 Feet
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[@LlyleHunter]

Your reviews are so professional, in depth, organized and comprehensive that I can't understand why one of the large fish haven't hired you. Outstanding work as usual Alex.

[@mountainhobo]

Alex is the large fish now. He has 150K subscribers *on his own*. Others may have a little more, but they have to maintain a large staff and overhead. Alex is doing it the old fashioned way, and he is winning.

[@ericamichelle99]

I had a 2015 Cherokee Latitude. It got totalled on Father's Day last year when a lady ran a red light and t-boned me going almost 50 mph. She was in a Toyota Sequoia. I will say, it took the hit like a champ. I was sad to lose that car but I do believe it saved my life. I walked away with a seat belt bruise. I know the Cherokee has its flaws, but I would still recommend it.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Thanks goodness for the safety rules and regulations that have raised crash protection standards across the entire industry.

[@ravenjames3873]

EricaMichelle99: well ill take a bruise any day over losing my life. how did there vehicle end up, cause Toyotas have a very durable strong body. but how do you t-bone somebody, and she obviously didn't care about the red light driving that fast. im glad you made it out there safe, but i sware some people shouldn't be driving. i have a 2012 Toyota Tundra SR5, and ill never be that stupid.

[@overthemoon9941]

OMG ....can’t believe reading ur description of accident..was the EXACT same thing that happened to me sept 2018 half block from my house in my spotless 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee I had owned for 18 yrs!, lady was distracted w.TEXTING AND T-boned my Jeep crashing both driver side doors. I had to crawl out the passenger side. She ignored the stop sign apparently knocking my Jeep Cherokee 6 ft. If I had been in a sedan or a lighter weight car the results would have been a lot worse for me. Thank u Jeep for making such a sturdy safe vehicle. Enterprise car rental told me that Stop signs in Utah often were merely a suggestion, lol...she had just moved to Texas.from Utah. Not so in Texas...Stop means STOP...my Atty was able to explain that to her ins carrier......

[@talltree9999]

Best reviews in the business. love the head to head comparisons. it's saving me a ton of dealership travel times and wasted test drives.

[@dinaray2025]

Another great review Alex. Your are my Go-To reviewer...

[@weirdshibainu]

Alex. ..great review. ..format is getting more comprehensive and polished.

[@bryanc3533]

This was hands down the best review I have ever seen. I just bought the sport and pick it up tomorrow. I feel much better now, and cant thank you enough. Great job

[@greall]

The reviews on this channel really are different: so in depth and not fan boyish. Keep up the good work...#happythatIsubscribed

[@isaiahmoreno9421]

Thank god someone who actually has good reviews and someone who knows the car

[@TheKingkingg]

awesome show Alex, a true fan of your in depth reviews on affordable vehicles.

[@lostncal]

Great video; Most reviewers miss the key mission of this Jeep. I personally think the Cherokee competes more with Land Rover i.e. Discovery Sport and less so with the main stream SUVs. My wife has the CRV EXL and although a good car, it doesn't have the ride refinement, features, and capability of the Cherokee esp Trailhawk V6. Entry models aside, the Cherokee drives and feels more like a luxury car than the main stream models mentioned in this video.

[@directorjustin]

I used to not like the current Cherokee, but this one is very nice with it's interior, features, and power.

[@maestroadam]

It looks quite nice in that silver/grey color! I find that the visual appeal of the Cherokee is very color sensitive.

[@aaronsalzman4090]

Personally I like my 2018 Cherokee Latitude 4 cylinder model. The only con I have against it is the base 4 cylinder engine. I've gotten used to it, but I miss the 230 hp V6 engine in my 2008 Accord EX-L. Right after I bought it I took it on a 600+ mile one way road trip, and I found it very comfortable for a road trip. As you noted, the transmission is hesitant to shift from certain gears, but again I got used to it. On the highway I averaged almost 31 MPG, while in my city driving where I live I'm closer to 23-25. Like I said, the only con I have for my model is the 4 cylinder engine lacking the pick-up I became used to in my Honda, but I really don't need that for a daily driver. 4 out of 5 stars in my book.

[@spacebunz]

Thanks for the info, I am glad that I went with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee North edition. I appreciate the comparison as I was considering each of these other vehicles.

[@aiartgifts]

Thanks Alex, excellent review! I was hoping you wouldn't mention the Honda CRV though... as that truly is the Cherokee's competition for my dollar. I have a 2014 RAV4, and while I like the roominess of the cabin and its car-like drive, the cheap feel to the finishes on the car have always left me wishing I'd bought something else. MPG is averaging 23 in mixed, so a change to the more powerful 3.2 in the Jeep probably wouldn't be a deal breaker. Current incentives are putting a 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude with the Comfort & Convenience group, a 8.4 entertainment upgrade and Cold Weather group at 23K or less. Certainly can't get the same bells and whistles on a CRV, making the Jeep that much more attractive. Your review certainly gave me food for thought and the Pros and Cons with other vehicles was spot on. Thanks again.

[@skylark5789]

Best and most comprehensive review. Thank You Alex!

[@j200man]

You are simply the best reviewer, hands down!

[@jimmacmurdo355]

Alex, another superb review. I believe the final drive ratio for all non-Trailhawk V6s is 3.25 : 1. When combined with the .48 9th gear, the effective final drive ratio is extraordinarily tall 1.56 : 1.

[@anironboot]

Best reviews on the net. Thank you.

[@revdharp]

Great review. In my opinion, the fuel economy was a bad comparison with the vehicles used. The Nissan and Honda does not even have the same kind of engine and power does not even come close. A better comparison might have the Equinox.

[@naveeds786]

I just got out of a leased 2014 Cherokee, Pros: Good overall package, functional and straight-forward interior, Uconnect, comfortable seats, spacious feeling interior with lots of places to put your things, Cons: 4-cylinder engine (opt for the v6), 9-speed transmission is not good (had mine replaced under warranty, but it was still jerky), steering arms groaned constantly (dealer fixed it short term, but noises came back again), poor service experience, Takeaway: opt for the v-6, lease, don't buy as it seems like the car aged quickly, and find a friendly dealer/service dept

[@trebors386]

You should add, lease don't buy as many will trade theirs in within couple of years...lease will prevent the awful resale value

[@mowcowbell]

Gas mileage isn't all that bad, even with the Trailhawk. I can easily get 25mpg on the highway with my V-6 equipped Trailhawk. The secret is to keep speeds under 70mph.

[@tonylee3213]

Try other vehicles under the same conditions

[@mowcowbell]

Tony, I have. A Jeep Wrangler does well to get 20mpg on the highway under the same conditions. There is no competition in the class that has the same off-road capability as the Cherokee Trailhawk.

[@mowcowbell]

That might work on the Limited, but with the extra aerodynamic drag with the Trailhawk, I think the additional drag would kill the mileage. I've never seen 9th gear in my TH, no matter what my speed.

[@valdius85]

Do you still have the Ch Trailhawk? How is reliability? I do not care millage as small engine take similar amount in the mountains while climbing and they they useless for engine breaking on the way down. The second hand units have good prices in Japan - where I live. I could have Gr Ch but the seat is just too big so it is really uncomfortable for me at 5ft5 ;)

[@aztek431]

Great review! I appreciate your thoroughness. Keep up the great work!

[@wingktsui3532]

A+ for ride is a surprise

[@kc5077]

The 4WD illustrations were awesome! I think the V6 Cherokees are unique but the competition's 4 cylinders even the New Compass are better all-around performers.

[@danielskibitcky3098]

Good Video Alex, Still watching through but haven't heard any commentary on the ZF9 speed that is a nightmare on most '14-'16s, we have a '15 and it's finicky and I've heard so many issues and false promise of fixes. Gear selection, weird revving, etc. Ours has been flashed over 6 times in 2 years

[@powerofpinesol8002]

Hey Alex great review but in the future can you consider rating the interior quality from 1-10 as it'll be nice to know which car has better build quality in its class. Thanks!

[@Elusive25]

great design to me

[@mariowhyte2816]

Alex strikes again!!! Amazing review, maaaaaaan!!!

[@LoveStallion]

I'm glad the AWD/4x4 diagram had that disclaimer. Here I was thinking the axles were not in line with one another. ;)

[@jackreinsom2526]

Great reviews bud! keep it up

[@Clonez-sr7to]

I love the front end

[@Dante1138]

Love your reviews as always. Wondering why you never use the Forester as a comp for small crossovers? Compete strongly in sales and performance with the ones that you do use.

[@Jolleyroger848]

They need to make cherokee 2-4 inches bigger and upsized the grand cherokee . cherokee cargo room is smaller than the new Compass, needs a bigger fuel tank since it heavier and get less mpgs

[@baldheadlogic]

Hey Alex...Great Detailed Review as Always Bud!!! I like the Cherokee. However, my biggest gripe goes to the poor IIHS crash test results. As heavy as it is, this vehicle should not get a "marginal" rating. Also, the 9spd ZF transmission seems questionable as well.

[@Grimmspeed715]

It can send more than 50%to the rear, it sends 60% to the rear in sport mode

[@tarassu]

What, cabin AIR FILTER is only offered starting from 4th trim level?? What? Are there vehicles costing that much without cabin air filters? Interesting, does the 1st trim level offer engine air filter?

[@pdgable]

+Alex on autos I checked the Jeep website and A/C is standard even on the Sport. Thanks for the excellent review.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It's part of a package on the Sport trim, not standard. You can reference their detailed features list on their media website: chryslermedia.iconicweb.com/mediasite/specs/2017_JP_Cherokee_SP7qar07q434533nsl6kkv473v1n.pdf

[@pdgable]

www.jeep.com/hostc/bmo/CUJ201708/models.do?ccode=CUJ201708KLTL74A&llp=2TA and click the standard equipment button. A/C is shown as standard equipment. The link you gave didn't even mention A/C. Not being argumentative but I know that you like to be accurate.

[@pdgable]

Sorry Alex. I figured it out. A/C is included as part of the Cold Weather group which is pretty odd! LOL

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

My thoughts exactly. The big thing to know about "base" trims is that just about every company makes them less desirable in some way. FCA deletes air conditioning frequently, GM allows zero options and usually only 2-3 colors, most delete the floor mats, cargo covers, etc

[@ggolds5]

Alex WHEN are you reviewing the brand new 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. ? Hopefully soon. Thank you.

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

6 years ago, I can own 2017 Jeep Cherokee.

[@dinaray2025]

So - On the 29th of April I test drove a new Cherokee. The ESS (Engine Start-Start), combined with a ZF-9 that was not "flashed" to the latest software (according to my salesman), caused a very, very concerning and less than ideal first impression. I turned it around after two blocks. The salesman went out with me and thought initially my lack of acceleration skills were at hand - but oh no. We returned to lot and switched to a GC and wow - why can't they put the 8 speed in the Cherokee? The ESS - if it was installed on the GC - was not noticeable at all. The Herky-Jerky nature of the Cherokee was very discerning and the ESS start occasionally sounded, and felt, as if the engine would come through the firewall into the drive area on a quick shutdown and re-start while making a yielding left-turn. I know there are folks who say to not place full pressure on the brake, but you have to while in the middle of an intersection - I tried to lighten the pressure on brake to keep the engine operating, but it was too dangerous to do as suggested in some forums. The salesman suggested we go to another Cherokee and see what it offers and to turn off the ESS before driving. Viola! Now we are talking...I bought it and found there is a module for $125 that can be installed to "remember" your settings of ESS/ECO/Sport modes before turning off the SUV. I will buy one very soon. Wow - the ESS needs to be tweaked or removed - it is not ready for prime time use right now.

[@mattman6458]

Looks good, just redesign the front end completely it looks awful, although on this trip it seems better than the other trims

[@powtmow]

Great review

[@trebors386]

Difference from AWD and 4x4 is one has a part time with high/low transfer case

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Some would say so, however not only is there no definition, plenty of 4x4 branded systems have no low ratio mode, including Jeep's systems.

[@trebors386]

true, I was still basing this on the old terminology. I think today 4x4 badging should be reserved for a vehicle that can go off roading

[@ProdigyMan88]

Hi Alex! Please review the all-new 2017 Mazda CX-5. Looks like noise, handling, ride and interior were greatly improved. I liked it even more than BMW X1 after few test drives.

[@elliottmanning4116]

I thought the main difference between AWD and Four Wheel Drive is that AWD is automatic and Four Wheel Drive is more of a manual system. For example, a Ford Fusion with with optional AWD has no drive modes to play with the AWD system, so you just drive the car and wait for it to work, but with Four Wheel Drive, you can put it in 4 high or 4 low, or like with a Jeep, it has all of the drive modes for off-roading and hill descent control. None of which are offered in most sedans or crossovers with AWD.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The only real difference is marketing.

[@elliottmanning4116]

Alex on Autos So the name has nothing to do with the level of the AWD/Four Wheel Drive system. Got it.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Elliott Manning generally speaking they tend to market more robust systems as 4x4 and less robust ones as AWD but there is no firm consensus.

[@Muppet_ofa_man33]

Missed the back seat recline and storage under the passenger seat.

[@mmalave71]

agrassogman back seats recline and are adjustable.

[@patrick7228]

Alex... Get a WRX cvt.. There are enough manual reviews.

[@mountainhobo]

That shortened rear bumper is just asking for a very expensive damage to the rear hatch.

[@davidwolf226]

Alex, any chance you'll be doing a review of the newest Lexus NX this year?

[@JBM425]

Is this the same ZF transmission as in the Honda Pilot or Passport? I heard it has been a sore spot in those vehicles. Did it perform better with the Jeep?

[@marinoint]

Have you checked out the updated Forester? It is noticeably quieter.

[@mark_r49]

Styling has been one of the best things about Jeeep/ Chrysler; reliability has not.

[@rightlanehog3151]

That's because styling is easy while Quality, Dependability and Reliability are difficult to achieve.

[@mmalave71]

Mark R Jeep drivers are rough on their vehicles. Part of the issue and complex 4 wheel drive systems do break down more than cheap "all wheel" drive systems as well that never leave the pavement.

[@mark_r49]

Mark Malave I was referring more to engine reliability for both companies, not just Jeep 4 wheel drive.

[@aditikandhari944]

Hello Alex ... once again, great indepth review ... Do you know if android auto/apple carplay would be coming as an upgrade for 2017 jeep cherokee??

[@SoundgardenMan]

I'm curious Alex...are other Jeeps available with the neutral flat tow mode as well?

[@BTC909]

I hated the front seats (Cloth). Especially the front passenger.

[@stony2494]

Does the 2017 Cherokee limited come standard with auto lift tailgate?

[@TonyBarcode]

Didn't you give the front comfort a 10/10 on the trail hawk Cherokee?

[@lBugslBunny]

Hey Alex, any review coming up on the Cadillac Escalade?

[@videoasis]

Hey Alex, can you do a review of the Dodge Journey Crossroad Plus?

[@moshariff6320]

Deja vu?

[@tarassu]

Random awesome landslide at 20:20 :D Should have buried that Fuglyness for good. Without Alex of course :D

[@rogerb7147]

That sagging beltline just doesn't fit an SUV. Add on the rather strange front end and the styling is a 2 out of 10. How did FCA do this when they have decent looks on their other crossovers?

[@wiibaron]

I have grown to actually love the front styling. I totally agree on the beltline sag though, I always thought it was odd. And if they would lower the taillights down about 2 inches the rear would look better...

[@rogerb7147]

Ok, I'll pull back on the front end critique, it's grown on me somewhat. Doesn't fit in with the Grand Cherokee but carries the name. However "mea culpa" on my criticism of it.

[@nightwolf883]

This is NOT a crossover, it is a 4x4 suv

[@kn7gez]

Brand new TrailHawk with failed starter was glad to see 2010 Tacoma rescue him. Jeep unreliable

[@kamryw927]

say that to my 260,000 mile Liberty with original trans, engine and t-case. Jeeps are the most reliable SUV's made

[@jayclassique5817]

Did I Hear You Correctly? You said the $23,000 base level does not include air conditioning? or was that a blooper?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Correct. Base models do not get air conditioning, you have to add the "Cold Weather Group" on the Sport trim to get it.

[@jayclassique5817]

Wow. The Jeep really went basic with that level...lol

[@nishitraj.]

Compass looks better

[@josegutierrez1063]

they do not mechatalk about the engine or the transmsson,I do not care what luxury s made if it fails mechanically

[@swanblake]

umm, Sportage SX?

[@bl7193]

Had a 2014, sold it last yr b/c its poor reliability especially transmission..

[@ejs93033]

Unique car. 4500 towing. Natural v6.... But if it had RWD and a normal transmission it would be a rockstar.

[@wesleyhyun]

These are annoying to look at on the road during night with their 6 lights on.

[@BikeFitterErik]

I'm surprised at the mpg, most vehicles are past their numbers.

[@watchreport]

Erik Sturzebecher that's because most are 4 cylinder, not 6, and are not as heavy.

[@jmsmith4]

Head lights are ugly

[@tspidey007]

The front end styling is hideous.

[@valdius85]

They should make it a small Grand Ch. styling. I love that one. VW and Audi are doing exactly that and no one complains

[@hank22]

Ugliest headlamps

[@jannis2072]

This vehicle looks like shit but it still love it

[@NaNslx]

This particular Jeep model sucks. Tried driving one on several occasions, always had similar issues, never disappointed in that. ;)

[@Cyberpunk2056]

its still a piece of Crap

[@coureurdebois]

Cheap interior, worst in class reliability, and an ugly design. No thanks.

[@weedmastersr]

Best interior, best design, best in off-road. Yes please!

[@marinoint]

Cherokee do have poor reliability rating and ugly front end.

[@NaNslx]

There's no award money can't buy. LOL

[@mmalave71]

Justin Bouche Umm...the Overland is gorgeous and hardly cheap. Drive one and it feels solid and super quiet.

[@mmalave71]

Shin Ken That's because people actually take them out of the city and use them off road.

[@notsoserious0944]

An unattractive visage. Or really ugly. I wonder at the decision to add mobility when the entire front fascia is literally a glass chin? Even the slightest bump to the front and we are talking thousands of bux to repair.

[@phuot1]

Another great proffesionnal review Alex. The front design suck! Reliability suck!Transmission suck! The 2.4 suck.The 3.2 is a good engine. I'll pass.

[@ast5515]

This transmission is cancer. Driving around at 40 mph, the engine revs 1100-1200 RPM. That's a hell of a way to kill an engine.

[@NaNslx]

I put it in cruise control, once it got in to 3k rpm, it would not come down. Had to keep on pulling to side of road to restart the stupid thing. Poor design IMO.

[@ast5515]

Gotta love FCA group. I wish Alfa Romeo was independent. I know they just don't have the money, but I think they could create some killer cars.

[@justabrokeredneck]

no ac on the base model??? what in the hell

[@srtxxx4661]

needs a serious front and rear refresh , very stale looking , I hear it's getting refreshed in 2018 , skip 4cyl it SUCKS!!

[@sergeyyevtukh388]

Mark Mustacci that what is exactly coming in the ,18 model in US , total disappointment from FCA, in EU they will have 3 or 4 different engines :-/

[@srtxxx4661]

pdgable agree !

[@pdgable]

Unfortunately, I have a two wheel drive version which doesn't have a smart mode....