The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk stands out as a bold choice for drivers who want more than just a regular SUV. With its mix of rugged looks, true off-road abilities, and everyday comfort, it appeals to adventurers and families alike.
This review explores what makes the 2017 Trailhawk unique, how it performs in real-world conditions, and what buyers should consider.
Design And Interior
The Trailhawk’s exterior styling is instantly recognizable. It features a higher ground clearance, aggressive front fascia, and signature red tow hooks. Unique Trailhawk badging and blacked-out trim add to its tough image.
Inside, the cabin feels modern and practical. The seats are covered in a mix of leather and cloth, designed for both support and durability. Red stitching adds a sporty touch. The dashboard layout is simple, with large, easy-to-use knobs and buttons. There is enough space for five adults, though rear legroom is just average for the class.
Cargo space is decent, with 24. 6 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
Fold those down, and you get up to 54. 9 cubic feet.
Some SUVs offer more, but the Trailhawk’s space is practical for most trips.
Performance And Driving Experience
Under the hood, the 2017 Trailhawk comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (184 horsepower, 171 lb-ft of torque) or an optional 3.2-liter V6 (271 horsepower, 239 lb-ft of torque). Most buyers prefer the V6 for its stronger acceleration and better towing (up to 4,500 pounds).
On pavement, the Trailhawk feels stable and comfortable. The suspension handles bumps well, and the steering is light, making city driving easy.
However, the nine-speed automatic transmission can sometimes shift slowly, especially with the base engine.
Where the Trailhawk truly shines is off-road. Jeep’s Active Drive Lock 4×4 system gives it real all-terrain capability. Features like the Selec-Terrain traction control, low-range gearing, and a locking rear differential let you tackle mud, rocks, and snow with confidence.
Real-world Mpg
EPA estimates put the 2.4L engine at 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway, while the V6 gets around 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway. These numbers are average for compact SUVs, but you may see lower results when off-roading or carrying heavy loads.
Technology And Safety
Every 2017 Trailhawk comes with Jeep’s Uconnect infotainment system. The standard 8.4-inch touchscreen is bright and responsive, with simple menus. Bluetooth, a six-speaker stereo, and USB ports are included. Navigation and satellite radio are optional.
Safety features include seven airbags, stability control, and a rearview camera. Advanced options like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning are available in packages.
In NHTSA crash tests, the Cherokee scored four out of five stars overall. The IIHS gave it “Good” ratings in most areas, but “Marginal” for the small overlap front test.
Off-road Capabilities
The Trailhawk stands out for its real off-road skills. Key features include:
- Increased ground clearance (8.7 inches)
- Skid plates for underbody protection
- Hill descent control
- All-terrain tires
- Selectable drive modes (Auto, Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud, Rock)
These upgrades let the Trailhawk handle trails most compact SUVs would avoid. In side-by-side tests, it often outperforms rivals like the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 Adventure.
Below is a quick look at how the Trailhawk compares to key competitors on off-road features:
| Model | Ground Clearance (in) | Locking Differential | Drive Modes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk | 8.7 | Yes (rear) | 5 |
| Subaru Forester | 8.7 | No | 2 |
| Toyota RAV4 Adventure | 6.5 | No | 2 |
Pricing And Value
The 2017 Trailhawk started at $31,195 (MSRP) when new, but used models now range from about $20,000 to $28,000, depending on mileage and condition.
Standard features include:
- All-terrain tires
- Off-road suspension
- Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen
- Dual-zone climate control
- Keyless entry
Popular options are the Comfort/Convenience Group (power liftgate, remote start) and the Technology Group (advanced safety features).
Here’s a breakdown of common package costs:
| Package | Main Features | Approx. Cost (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort/Convenience | Power liftgate, remote start | $1,895 |
| Technology | Safety tech, park assist | $1,295 |
| Leather Interior | Leather seats, heated steering wheel | $1,250 |
Ownership Experience
Owners praise the Trailhawk’s ability to switch from city driving to tough trails without fuss. The seats are comfortable for long drives, and the ride is quiet, even at highway speeds. However, some mention the transmission’s slow shifting and average fuel economy as drawbacks.
Maintenance costs are typical for the class, but keep in mind that off-road use can wear parts faster. Regular checks of the suspension and tires are a smart move if you plan to use the Trailhawk’s full capabilities.
One insight new buyers often miss is the importance of using the right tires. The stock all-terrain tires are good for most conditions, but if you plan on serious rock crawling or deep mud, specialized tires make a big difference.
Another tip: the locking rear differential is a game-changer off-road, but many drivers forget to engage it when the trail gets rough. Learning how to use all the drive modes can unlock the Trailhawk’s full potential.
Is The 2017 Trailhawk Right For You?
If you need true off-road ability but want a comfortable daily driver, the Trailhawk is hard to beat. It’s not the fastest or most spacious SUV, but few rivals can match its mix of comfort and trail skills.
For those who mostly drive in the city and rarely leave paved roads, a regular Cherokee or another compact SUV may be a better value.
For more technical details, visit the official Jeep website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Reliable Is The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk?
The 2017 Trailhawk gets average reliability ratings. Most issues are minor, like electrical glitches or slow-shifting transmission. Regular maintenance helps avoid bigger problems.
What Is The Towing Capacity?
With the V6 engine and proper equipment, the Trailhawk can tow up to 4,500 pounds. The four-cylinder engine is rated much lower, so choose the V6 if towing is important.
Can The Trailhawk Handle Deep Snow?
Yes, the Trailhawk’s 4×4 system and Selec-Terrain modes make it excellent in snow. The ground clearance and all-terrain tires help it drive safely on unplowed roads.
How Does The Trailhawk Compare To The Subaru Forester For Off-roading?
The Trailhawk is better equipped for tough off-road trails, thanks to its locking rear differential, higher ground clearance, and skid plates. The Forester is good for light trails but not as rugged.
Is The 2017 Trailhawk A Good Family Car?
It works well for small families, with good comfort and safety features. Rear seat space and cargo room are average, so larger families might want to consider a bigger SUV.
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk isn’t just another SUV it’s a balanced mix of real adventure and everyday comfort. For those who want to explore off the beaten path but still enjoy city life, it’s a smart choice worth considering.
