The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Sport stands out in the compact SUV market for its rugged looks and everyday practicality. Many buyers are drawn to its unique style, but the Cherokee Sport offers more than just a bold appearance. It’s a vehicle that fits city life and adventure, making it a popular choice for people who need a versatile ride. If you’re considering the 2017 Jeep Cherokee Sport, this review will help you understand its strengths, weaknesses, and what makes it different from other SUVs.
Exterior Design And Features
The Cherokee Sport has a striking front with narrow headlights and the iconic seven-slot grille. It looks more aggressive than most competitors, which gives it a confident road presence. The body lines are sharp, and the wheel arches are pronounced, hinting at its off-road roots.
Key exterior features include:
- 17-inch steel wheels
- Black accent trim
- Halogen projector headlights
- Power heated mirrors
While it’s not as flashy as high-end trims, the Sport version keeps things practical and simple. The paint choices are limited, but classic colors like Bright White and Diamond Black are available.
Interior Comfort And Technology
Inside, the 2017 Cherokee Sport focuses on utility and comfort. The cabin seats five, with decent headroom and legroom for adults.
Materials are mostly durable plastics, but the seats are cloth-covered and supportive for long drives.
Some important interior features:
- Manual air conditioning
- Uconnect 5-inch touchscreen
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB/AUX ports
The infotainment system is basic but easy to use. One insight many new owners miss: the Sport’s sound insulation is better than expected, keeping the cabin quiet during city driving.
Cargo And Space
The rear seats fold almost flat, expanding cargo space from 24. 6 cubic feet to 54.
9 cubic feet. This flexibility is useful for hauling sports gear or luggage.
However, the cargo opening is not as wide as some rivals, which can make loading large items tricky.
Performance And Handling
Under the hood, the Cherokee Sport features a 2.4-liter Tigershark I4 engine, producing 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This combination offers smooth acceleration and reasonable fuel economy.
Performance stats:
- 0-60 mph in about 8.6 seconds
- EPA-rated 21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway (FWD)
The steering feels light, making city maneuvering easy. On the highway, the ride is comfortable but not sporty.
A common mistake is expecting off-road performance in the Sport trim; while it looks tough, this version is best for paved roads.
Engine Comparison
Below is a comparison of the Cherokee Sport’s engine against key rivals:
| Model | Engine | Horsepower | MPG (City/Highway) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee Sport | 2.4L I4 | 184 | 21/30 |
| Honda CR-V LX | 2.4L I4 | 184 | 26/32 |
| Toyota RAV4 LE | 2.5L I4 | 176 | 23/30 |
Safety And Reliability
The 2017 Cherokee Sport comes equipped with standard safety features like:
- Electronic Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Anti-lock Brakes
- Multiple airbags
In crash tests, the Cherokee earned four stars from the NHTSA. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated it “Good” in most categories except for small overlap front, where it scored “Marginal. ”
Reliability is average. Some owners report minor issues with the nine-speed transmission, but most problems are fixed by software updates.
Always check for recalls and service history when buying used.
Safety Feature Comparison
Here’s how the Cherokee Sport stacks up against rivals in safety features:
| Model | Stability Control | Blind Spot Monitor | Rear Camera |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherokee Sport | Yes | No | Yes |
| CR-V LX | Yes | No | Yes |
| RAV4 LE | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Pricing And Value
In 2017, the Cherokee Sport started at $23,495 for the front-wheel drive model. The price increases if you add all-wheel drive or optional packages. Today, used models range from $13,000 to $18,000 depending on condition and mileage.
What makes the Cherokee Sport a good value:
- Lower starting price than most rivals
- Strong resale value for Jeep
- Good blend of style and practicality
One tip: buyers often overlook certified pre-owned programs, which can add warranty coverage and peace of mind.
Ownership Experience
Many owners report the Cherokee Sport is easy to maintain. Oil changes, brakes, and tires are standard costs.
Jeep dealerships are common in the US, making service convenient.
A non-obvious insight: the nine-speed automatic needs regular maintenance and software updates to stay smooth. Ignoring this can lead to shifting problems.
The ride quality is ideal for daily commutes and weekend trips. Families appreciate the flexible cargo area, while singles enjoy the sporty design.
Pros And Cons
To help summarize, here are the main advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Distinctive design
- Comfortable ride
- Good cargo flexibility
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Basic technology features
- Average fuel economy
- Not ideal for serious off-roading
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Sport Good For Off-road Driving?
The Sport trim is not designed for heavy off-road use. It handles gravel and light trails well, but serious off-roading requires a Trailhawk or higher trim.
How Reliable Is The 2017 Cherokee Sport?
Reliability is average. Most issues are minor and can be fixed with updates.
Regular maintenance is important for the nine-speed transmission.
What Are The Main Competitors Of The Cherokee Sport?
Key competitors include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. These models offer similar size and features but may differ in technology and performance.
Does The Cherokee Sport Have Good Resale Value?
Jeep vehicles typically hold their value well, especially when maintained. The Cherokee Sport has a strong resale value compared to many compact SUVs.
Where Can I Find Official Specs And More Information?
You can visit the Jeep Official Site for detailed specs, options, and updates.
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Sport balances bold style, practical features, and solid value. For buyers who want something different but reliable, it’s a smart option in the crowded compact SUV market.
