Is 2019 Jeep Cherokee A Good Car
Choosing a compact SUV can be confusing. Many drivers want a vehicle that is reliable, comfortable, and safe. The 2019 Jeep Cherokee stands out with its unique style and off-road skills, but it also faces tough competition. If you are thinking about buying one, it’s smart to look at all the details—good and bad—before making a decision. This guide breaks down the 2019 Jeep Cherokee’s strengths, weaknesses, and how it compares to other SUVs.
Performance And Driving Experience
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee offers three engine options. The standard engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder. It gives enough power for daily driving but may feel slow when merging on highways. The 3.2-liter V6 is stronger and better for towing. For those wanting fuel savings, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is both quick and efficient.
You can pick between front-wheel drive or Jeep’s famous four-wheel-drive systems. The Trailhawk trim, in particular, is built for off-road fun. Most drivers find the Cherokee smooth on city streets but a bit bumpy on rough roads.
Engine Comparison
| Engine | Horsepower | MPG (City/Highway) | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L I4 | 180 hp | 22/31 | 2,000 lbs |
| 3.2L V6 | 271 hp | 20/29 | 4,500 lbs |
| 2.0L Turbo I4 | 270 hp | 23/31 | 4,000 lbs |
Most owners say the V6 is the best choice for towing or highway driving. The turbo engine is good for a mix of power and fuel economy.
Interior And Comfort
Inside, the Cherokee offers supportive seats and plenty of headroom. The dashboard is simple and easy to use. The base trim comes with cloth seats, while higher trims offer leather upholstery and heated seats. The Uconnect infotainment system is one of the easiest to use in its class. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on most trims.
Cargo space is average for the class. With the rear seats up, you get about 25.8 cubic feet. Fold them down for up to 54.7 cubic feet—enough for groceries or luggage, but less than some rivals.
Key Interior Features
- Easy-to-use touchscreen
- Standard smartphone integration
- Optional dual-zone climate control
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat on higher trims
The cabin is quiet at low speeds, but wind noise can be noticed on the highway.
Safety And Reliability
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee earned good marks for safety. The NHTSA gave it a 4-star overall rating. Available safety features include:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Forward collision warning
- Lane departure warning
Most advanced safety features are only available on higher trims or as options. Basic trims may lack some driver-assist technology.
When it comes to reliability, the Cherokee gets average scores. According to J.D. Power, it has a reliability rating of 3 out of 5, which is about the middle of the pack. Some owners report issues with the transmission and electrical systems. Regular maintenance can reduce problems, but these issues are worth considering.
Value For Money
Prices for a used 2019 Jeep Cherokee vary by trim, mileage, and condition. In general, the Cherokee is priced competitively against other compact SUVs. However, resale value is lower than some Japanese rivals.
Price Range And Trim Comparison
| Trim | Typical Price (Used) | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Latitude | $16,000 – $19,000 | Basic features, cloth seats |
| Limited | $20,000 – $24,000 | Leather, more tech |
| Trailhawk | $22,000 – $26,000 | Off-road upgrades |
Insurance and maintenance costs are average for the segment. Fuel economy depends on the engine, but the turbo model is surprisingly efficient.
How It Compares To Rivals
The compact SUV segment is crowded. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are known for reliability and resale value. The Mazda CX-5 stands out for sporty handling. The Cherokee’s main edge is its off-road ability, especially in the Trailhawk trim.
Cherokee Vs. Top Rivals
| SUV | Reliability | Cargo Space (cu ft) | Max Towing (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee | Average | 54.7 | 4,500 |
| Honda CR-V | High | 75.8 | 1,500 |
| Toyota RAV4 | High | 69.8 | 3,500 |
| Mazda CX-5 | High | 59.6 | 2,000 |
The Cherokee is the top pick for towing and off-roading. Rivals win in reliability and cargo space.
Non-obvious Insights
- The 2019 Cherokee’s Active Drive Lock 4WD system in the Trailhawk offers a rear locker, rare for this class.
- Some trims have a sliding rear seat, giving extra legroom or cargo space as needed—a detail many overlook.
Who Should Consider The 2019 Cherokee?
If you often drive on dirt, snow, or rough roads, the 2019 Cherokee—especially Trailhawk—makes sense. It’s also good for those who tow small trailers. However, if you want the best reliability, lower costs, or big cargo space, a rival might suit you better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2019 Jeep Cherokee Reliable?
The 2019 Cherokee has an average reliability rating. Some owners report problems with the transmission and electronics, but many have no major issues. Regular maintenance is important.
What Is The Best Engine For The 2019 Cherokee?
Most experts recommend the 3.2L V6 for its power and towing. The 2.0L turbo is good if you want better fuel economy with similar power.
How Does The Cherokee’s Cargo Space Compare To Rivals?
The Cherokee offers 54.7 cubic feet with seats down. This is less than the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, but enough for most daily needs.
Is The 2019 Cherokee Good For Off-roading?
Yes, especially the Trailhawk trim. It features higher ground clearance, skid plates, and advanced 4WD systems, making it one of the best off-roaders in its class.
Where Can I Find More Detailed Specs?
For full technical details and owner reviews, visit the Edmunds 2019 Jeep Cherokee page.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee is a solid pick if you value off-road skill and towing in a compact SUV. It’s not perfect—reliability and cargo space are only average—but it offers a mix of features that fit many drivers’ needs. Before buying, consider your top priorities and test drive the competition to find your best match.
