The 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk stands out in a crowded SUV market. It’s not just another family vehicle it’s built for adventure.
Many buyers look for comfort and style, but the Trailhawk offers serious off-road capability without losing everyday practicality.
If you’re considering a rugged SUV that feels at home in the city and on muddy trails, this review will give you clear, simple answers about the Trailhawk’s strengths and weaknesses.
Design And Exterior Features
The Trailhawk’s exterior is easy to spot. Its aggressive front grille and red tow hooks signal off-road readiness. The matte black hood decal isn’t just for looks—it helps reduce sun glare while driving. The higher ground clearance (8.7 inches) makes it easy to clear rocks and uneven terrain. Unique 17-inch wheels and all-terrain tires give the Trailhawk a solid stance.
Other useful features include:
- LED headlights for better visibility
- Skid plates to protect the underbody
- Roof rails for carrying extra gear
Buyers often miss that the Trailhawk’s design isn’t only about style. Each detail serves a purpose, especially for outdoor activities.
Interior Comfort And Practicality
Step inside and you’ll find a mix of durable materials and thoughtful touches. Seats are covered in premium cloth or leather, depending on the trim. The Trailhawk seats five comfortably, but rear legroom is slightly less than some rivals—especially for tall passengers.
The cargo space is 25.8 cubic feet behind the second row. With seats folded, it expands to 54.7 cubic feet. This is enough for camping gear or sports equipment. The Uconnect infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Climate controls are simple and easy to use.
Here’s a quick comparison of Trailhawk vs competitors:
| Model | Cargo Space (cu ft) | Rear Legroom (in) |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk | 25.8 | 40.3 |
| Toyota RAV4 Adventure | 37.6 | 37.8 |
| Ford Bronco Sport | 32.5 | 36.9 |
Practical tip: If you need maximum cargo space, consider folding the rear seats or look at competing models.
Performance And Off-road Capability
The Trailhawk’s main strength is its off-road performance. The standard engine is a 3.2-liter V6 with 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Jeep’s Active Drive Lock 4×4 system gives the Trailhawk serious traction.
Key off-road features include:
- Selec-Terrain system: Lets you switch between modes like Snow, Mud, Sand, and Rock.
- Hill descent control: Helps keep speed steady on steep slopes.
- Locking rear differential: Improves grip on slippery surfaces.
For daily use, the Trailhawk is smooth but not as fuel-efficient as some rivals. EPA ratings are 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway.
Many buyers overlook how much these off-road features change the Trailhawk’s driving experience. It feels stable on rough roads, but the ride can be a bit firm.
Here’s a table showing Trailhawk vs RAV4 Adventure in performance:
| Model | Horsepower | 4WD System | Fuel Economy (mpg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk | 271 | Active Drive Lock | 18/24 |
| Toyota RAV4 Adventure | 203 | Dynamic Torque AWD | 25/33 |
Safety And Technology
Safety is a priority for many buyers. The Trailhawk comes with blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Optional features include adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning. The NHTSA gives the Cherokee an overall 4-star safety rating.
The infotainment system supports Bluetooth, voice commands, and navigation upgrades. One insight: The Trailhawk’s tech is easy for beginners, unlike some rivals with complex menus.
Pricing And Value
The Trailhawk starts at $34,505 MSRP. With options, it can reach $39,000. This is higher than many compact SUVs, but you’re paying for true off-road ability. Standard features like all-terrain tires and skid plates are often expensive add-ons elsewhere.
Common mistakes buyers make:
- Ignoring the cost of optional packages
- Forgetting to check insurance rates (often higher for off-road models)
Here’s a table with pricing comparisons:
| Model | Base Price | Off-road Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk | $34,505 | Yes |
| Ford Bronco Sport Badlands | $32,295 | Yes |
| Toyota RAV4 Adventure | $32,900 | No |
Real-world Driving Experience
Drivers report the Trailhawk handles well on rough roads and muddy trails. It feels secure, especially in bad weather.
The steering is responsive but not sporty. On highways, the engine is strong, but cabin noise rises at higher speeds.
One non-obvious insight: Using the Selec-Terrain system actually changes how the Trailhawk feels. In Sand mode, the throttle is more sensitive. In Rock mode, the suspension stays firmer.
Another tip: If you plan to use the Trailhawk mainly for city driving, some features may feel wasted. The ride is firmer, and fuel economy is lower than softer SUVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Trailhawk Good For Daily Driving?
Yes, it’s comfortable and has useful tech. However, the ride is firmer due to off-road suspension, and fuel economy is average.
How Does The Trailhawk Compare To The Grand Cherokee?
The Cherokee Trailhawk is smaller and more affordable. The Grand Cherokee offers more power and luxury but costs more and is larger.
Can I Tow With The Trailhawk?
Yes. Maximum towing capacity is 4,500 pounds with the V6 engine. This is above average for its class.
What Options Should I Choose For Best Value?
Choose the Comfort and Convenience Package for heated seats and remote start. Skip premium audio if you don’t need it; the standard system is good.
Is Trailhawk Maintenance Expensive?
Routine maintenance costs are similar to other SUVs. Off-road use may lead to more frequent tire and suspension checks.
Always follow the schedule in the owner’s manual.
If you want more technical details, visit the official Jeep site: Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk.
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is a smart choice for drivers who want real off-road ability in a compact SUV. It’s not the cheapest option, but its design, performance, and tech make it stand out.
If you value adventure and don’t mind a firmer ride, the Trailhawk is worth considering.
