Looking for an SUV that handles daily life but also feels good to drive? Many drivers wonder if the 2021 Jeep Cherokee is a smart buy. With so many midsize SUVs on the market, it’s easy to get lost in the options. But the Cherokee has a long history—and a big reputation. Let’s look at where it stands today, from its strengths to the areas where it falls behind. By the end, you’ll know if this SUV fits your needs or if you should keep searching.
Performance And Engine Choices
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee gives buyers several engine choices. The base model comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, making 180 horsepower. It’s not the most powerful, but it’s fine for city driving and daily commutes. Most drivers will find this engine a bit slow when merging onto highways.
If you want more power, the 3.2-liter V6 delivers 271 horsepower. This engine brings a much stronger performance, making the Cherokee feel more responsive. There’s also a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, which offers a good mix of speed and fuel efficiency.
All engines come with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Some drivers notice the transmission can shift slowly, especially at lower speeds. Still, it works well enough for most situations.
For off-road fans, the Trailhawk trim is a highlight. It has stronger suspension, skid plates, and Jeep’s Active Drive Lock 4×4 system. This makes the Cherokee one of the few midsize SUVs that feels confident off the pavement.
Interior Comfort And Features
Step inside the 2021 Cherokee, and you’ll find a simple but comfortable cabin. The Uconnect infotainment system is easy to use and comes with a 7-inch touchscreen on lower trims. Higher trims offer an 8.4-inch screen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
The materials feel solid, but not as upscale as some rivals. Most surfaces are soft-touch, but hard plastics are noticeable in some places. The seating is supportive for short trips, though taller adults may find the back seats a bit tight.
Cargo space is about 25.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.7 cubic feet with seats folded. This is less than some competitors like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
Here’s a quick look at how the Cherokee compares to rivals:
| Model | Cargo Space (Rear Seats Up) | Cargo Space (Seats Folded) |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee | 25.8 cu ft | 54.7 cu ft |
| Honda CR-V | 39.2 cu ft | 75.8 cu ft |
| Toyota RAV4 | 37.6 cu ft | 69.8 cu ft |
Safety And Reliability
Safety is a big concern for SUV buyers. The 2021 Jeep Cherokee comes with basic safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring on most trims. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the Cherokee a 4-star overall safety rating.
One area to note: the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rates the Cherokee “Good” in most crash tests, but headlights on lower trims scored lower.
When it comes to reliability, the Cherokee scores average. RepairPal gives it a 3 out of 5 for reliability. Owners sometimes report issues with the transmission and electronics, especially in older Cherokees, though 2021 models improved.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is important for many buyers. The 2.4-liter engine gives about 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway. The V6 drops to 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway, and the turbo four-cylinder is close to the V6.
While these numbers are fair, the Cherokee isn’t as efficient as leaders like the CR-V or RAV4. Here’s how fuel economy compares:
| Model/Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee 2.4L | 22 | 31 |
| Honda CR-V 1.5L Turbo | 28 | 34 |
| Toyota RAV4 2.5L | 28 | 35 |
Value For Money
Prices for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee start around $27,000 for the base Latitude trim. The popular Trailhawk and Limited trims can reach $38,000 with options. This puts the Cherokee in the middle of the pack for cost.
Resale value is average. Jeep vehicles hold their value, but not as well as Toyota or Honda. Insurance and maintenance costs are also in the middle range.
Many buyers overlook the cost of repairs for SUVs with advanced off-road features. The Cherokee Trailhawk, for example, can cost more to maintain if you use it for real off-roading.
Strengths And Weaknesses
Let’s break down what stands out and what could be better:
Strengths
- Off-road ability: Few SUVs in this class match the Cherokee Trailhawk off-road.
- Engine choices: Multiple engines let buyers pick what fits them best.
- User-friendly tech: The Uconnect system is simple and responsive.
Weaknesses
- Cargo space: Less room than key rivals.
- Fuel economy: Lower than class leaders.
- Back seat space: Tight for taller passengers.
A detail many miss: the Cherokee’s towing capacity is excellent for its size—up to 4,500 pounds with the V6. Most rivals can’t match this, which matters for those pulling trailers or boats.
Another insight: while the Cherokee’s ride is smooth, it’s not as quiet as some wish. Road and wind noise can be higher, especially on the highway.
Owner Experiences
Many owners like the Cherokee for its confidence in bad weather. The available all-wheel drive makes it strong in snow and rain. Owners often mention the clear view from the driver’s seat and easy controls.
However, some complain about the small cargo space and the slow-shifting transmission. Others point out that the Cherokee’s price can rise quickly with options.
Who Should Buy The 2021 Jeep Cherokee?
The Cherokee is best for drivers who:
- Want an SUV with real off-road skills
- Need to tow small trailers
- Prefer a simple and easy-to-use infotainment system
It’s not the best fit for families needing lots of cargo space or the best fuel economy. If you spend most of your time in the city and want a roomy, efficient SUV, other models may suit you better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2021 Jeep Cherokee Reliable?
The Cherokee scores average for reliability. It’s better than past models, but not at the top of the class.
How Much Can The 2021 Jeep Cherokee Tow?
With the V6 engine and proper equipment, it can tow up to 4,500 pounds. Most four-cylinder models tow less.
Does The 2021 Cherokee Have Apple Carplay And Android Auto?
Yes, both are standard on most trims, starting with the Latitude Plus.
Is The 2021 Cherokee Good For Off-roading?
The Trailhawk trim is excellent off-road. Other trims handle light trails but are best on pavement.
Where Can I Find More Details About The Cherokee’s Features?
Visit the official Jeep website for full specs and options.
If you need a midsize SUV with true off-road ability and solid towing, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee stands out. But if cargo space and fuel economy are top priorities, you may find better options in this crowded class. Always test drive and compare before making your final decision.
