The 2014 Jeep Cherokee arrived with bold changes, challenging what people expected from a compact SUV. Jeep took a big risk with its new look and features, hoping to combine off-road ability with daily comfort. But how did it really perform? If you’re considering a used 2014 Cherokee, knowing the real strengths and weaknesses is key. Here’s a clear, honest review based on Consumer Reports findings and real-world feedback.
Design And Interior Quality
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee stood out thanks to its modern, aggressive styling. The front had slim headlights and a unique grille, which some loved and others disliked. Inside, the cabin felt more upscale than earlier Jeeps. Materials were soft to the touch, and the dashboard had a logical layout. Seats were supportive, and both rows offered good space for adults.
Storage solutions were clever, with a handy bin above the radio and deep door pockets. The rear seats folded flat, expanding cargo space when needed. However, the cargo area was smaller than some rivals, which could be a problem for families carrying lots of gear.
Performance And Handling
Jeep offered the 2014 Cherokee with two engines:
- 2.4-liter four-cylinder (184 horsepower)
- 3.2-liter V6 (271 horsepower)
Most buyers picked the V6 for its stronger acceleration, especially when merging onto highways or carrying passengers. The new nine-speed automatic transmission promised better fuel economy, but it was a common source of complaints. Shifts could feel rough or hesitant, making city driving less smooth.
On the road, the Cherokee felt composed. Steering was responsive, and the ride was comfortable over bumps. What set this Jeep apart was the available all-wheel drive and off-road packages. The Trailhawk version, in particular, handled dirt roads and rocky paths better than almost any other compact SUV.
Here’s a quick comparison of the engines:
| Engine | Horsepower | 0-60 mph (sec) | EPA MPG (city/highway) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L 4-cylinder | 184 | 9.4 | 22/31 |
| 3.2L V6 | 271 | 7.4 | 19/28 |
Safety And Reliability
The 2014 Cherokee earned good crash-test ratings from the IIHS, including a Top Safety Pick award. Standard safety features included front and side airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. Higher trims could add blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning.
However, reliability was a weak point. Early models had frequent problems with the transmission and infotainment system. Some owners faced sudden stalling or shifting issues, leading to several recalls. Consumer Reports gave the 2014 Cherokee a below-average reliability rating, especially for the first production year.
Here’s how the Cherokee compared to key competitors in reliability and safety:
| Model | Reliability (CR Score) | IIHS Safety |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee (2014) | 2/5 | Top Safety Pick |
| Honda CR-V (2014) | 4/5 | Top Safety Pick+ |
| Toyota RAV4 (2014) | 5/5 | Good |
Technology And Features
Jeep packed the Cherokee with modern tech, especially on higher trims. The Uconnect infotainment system stood out for its large touchscreen and easy menus. Bluetooth, USB ports, and optional navigation were available. The climate controls were simple, and buttons felt solid.
Some features that set it apart:
- Heated and ventilated seats (on higher trims)
- Panoramic sunroof
- Advanced 4WD systems with terrain selection
However, the system sometimes froze or rebooted randomly, which frustrated many owners. Software updates fixed some issues, but not all.
Driving Experience: Real-world Insights
Many people loved the Trailhawk trim, which offered true off-road skill rarely seen in small SUVs. It came with a raised suspension, skid plates, and special tires. If you needed a vehicle for rough roads or camping, this trim was unique in the segment.
For daily use, the ride was smooth, and road noise stayed low. The turning radius was tight, making city parking easier.
Still, the nine-speed automatic could annoy with slow or awkward shifts, especially when starting from a stop.
A common beginner mistake is ignoring the V6 option. The base four-cylinder looks cheaper, but most found it underpowered, especially when loaded.
Spending extra on the V6 gave a much better driving feel for both city and highway use.
Ownership Costs And Value
Used 2014 Cherokees can be affordable, but it’s smart to check for recall repairs and a full service history. Frequent transmission repairs and electronic glitches can add costs. Insurance rates are average for the class, and fuel economy is decent but not class-leading.
If you want strong resale value and fewer headaches, some competitors like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V are safer bets. Still, no rival matches the Cherokee’s off-road skill for the price.
Here’s a quick look at average ownership costs over 5 years:
| Category | Cherokee (2014) | CR-V (2014) | RAV4 (2014) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance & Repairs | $4,000 | $2,500 | $2,800 |
| Fuel | $8,200 | $7,500 | $7,400 |
| Insurance | $6,000 | $5,800 | $5,900 |
Two Insights Most Miss
- Trailhawk resale advantage: The Trailhawk trim holds its value better than base models, thanks to real off-road demand. Many buyers overlook this when shopping used.
- Transmission programming updates: Some used Cherokees drive much smoother than others. If the previous owner had dealership software updates, shifting improves. Always test drive and check for update records.
If you want more details from Consumer Reports, check their official Consumer Reports Review.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Reliable Is The 2014 Jeep Cherokee?
The 2014 Cherokee has below-average reliability, mainly due to problems with the transmission and electronics. Later years improved, but the first year had more issues.
What Engine Is Best For The 2014 Cherokee?
The 3.2-liter V6 is the better choice for most drivers. It offers stronger acceleration and smoother power, especially with passengers or cargo.
Is The 2014 Cherokee Good For Off-roading?
Yes, especially the Trailhawk trim. It comes with advanced 4WD systems, extra ground clearance, and skid plates, making it one of the best off-road options in its class.
Are There Common Problems With The 2014 Cherokee?
Yes, the most common issues are rough shifting from the nine-speed transmission and glitches with the infotainment system. Always check for recall repairs.
How Does The 2014 Cherokee Compare To Honda Cr-v And Toyota Rav4?
The Cherokee offers better off-road ability and more features but lags in reliability and cargo space. The CR-V and RAV4 are more reliable and cheaper to own long-term.
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee is a bold, capable SUV that stands out for its style and off-road performance.
If you choose carefully and check its service history, it can be a unique and enjoyable choice just be aware of its early-year quirks before you buy.
