The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude stands out for its mix of rugged styling, comfort, and versatility. While many SUVs focus only on city driving, the Latitude model brings true off-road capabilities to the mainstream market.
Whether you’re looking for a family car or a weekend adventure vehicle, this Jeep offers features and performance that appeal to a wide range of buyers. Here’s a practical review of the 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude, focusing on what matters most to everyday drivers.
Design And Comfort
The Cherokee Latitude’s design is unmistakably Jeep. Its exterior features bold lines and the classic seven-slot grille. Many buyers appreciate the high ground clearance and sturdy build, which make it look tough and ready for adventure.
Inside, the Latitude is surprisingly comfortable. The seats use soft materials and provide good support for long drives. The cabin feels spacious for a compact SUV, with room for five passengers. The rear seats fold flat, making it easy to transport larger items.
Interior highlights:
- Cloth upholstery with a premium feel
- 6-way power driver’s seat
- Dual-zone climate control
- Touchscreen infotainment system (5-inch standard, larger in upgraded packages)
Performance And Handling
The 2017 Latitude comes with two engine options:
- 2.4L I4 engine (184 horsepower, 171 lb-ft of torque)
- 3.2L V6 engine (271 horsepower, 239 lb-ft of torque)
Most Latitude models use the 2. 4L engine, which is efficient and reliable for daily use. The V6 is a popular choice for those wanting more power, especially for towing or rough terrain.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two engines:
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | MPG (city/hwy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L I4 | 184 | 171 | 21/30 |
| 3.2L V6 | 271 | 239 | 20/29 |
The Latitude handles well on city streets, but it really shines off-road. The Jeep Active Drive I system is standard on 4×4 models, making it easy to switch between driving modes. Most owners report smooth steering and stable handling, though some notice minor transmission hesitation, especially when accelerating quickly.
Technology And Features
Jeep made sure the 2017 Latitude includes modern features for safety and entertainment. The Uconnect system is easy to use, and most controls are within reach. While the standard touchscreen is only 5 inches, it responds quickly and connects with Bluetooth for hands-free calls.
Key features:
- Rearview camera
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Keyless entry
- USB and AUX ports
- Optional navigation
Safety features are solid for its class, though advanced options like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control are only available in higher trims.
Cargo Space And Utility
A major advantage of the Latitude is its flexible cargo area. With the rear seats up, you get about 24.6 cubic feet of space. Fold them down, and the volume jumps to 54.9 cubic feet. This is enough for camping gear, sports equipment, or groceries.
Here’s a quick look at how the Cherokee compares to similar SUVs:
| Model | Cargo (rear seats up) | Cargo (rear seats down) |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee Latitude | 24.6 cu ft | 54.9 cu ft |
| Toyota RAV4 | 38.4 cu ft | 73.4 cu ft |
| Ford Escape | 34.0 cu ft | 68.0 cu ft |
While the Cherokee’s cargo space is smaller, its flat load floor and easy access make it practical for most uses.
Reliability And Ownership Costs
Many owners praise the Latitude for its reliability. Routine maintenance costs are average for its class. However, some report issues with the nine-speed automatic transmission, mainly rough shifting at low speeds. It’s important to check for recalls and updates when buying used.
Estimated yearly costs:
- Fuel: $1,500–$1,700
- Maintenance: $400–$600
- Insurance: $1,100–$1,300
The Latitude’s resale value holds steady, thanks to Jeep’s reputation. Buyers often find that the 4×4 models retain value better than front-wheel drive versions.
Real-world Insights
- Winter performance: Owners in cold climates often praise the Latitude’s AWD system, which handles snow and ice well.
- Infotainment upgrades: Many buyers later upgrade the standard touchscreen, since the original size is small compared to newer models.
- Cargo flexibility: The split-folding seats allow for odd-sized items, like bikes or skis, which isn’t obvious from specs alone.
These insights help you understand the Latitude beyond just numbers and features.
Comparison With Other Suvs
If you’re looking at similar models, the Cherokee Latitude competes with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. The Cherokee stands out for its off-road ability and strong towing capacity (up to 4,500 lbs with the V6), which is more than most rivals.
Here’s how the Latitude compares in important areas:
| Feature | Cherokee Latitude | Honda CR-V | Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off-road ability | Excellent | Average | Average |
| Towing (max) | 4,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| MPG (city/hwy) | 21/30 | 26/32 | 23/30 |
If you need a vehicle for both city and off-road driving, the Cherokee Latitude is a strong choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
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“,”visible”:true},{“id”:”faq-question-6cde73ba81a9″,”title”:”How Does The Latitude Perform In Snow?”,”content”:”The AWD system handles snow and slippery roads well. Many owners in colder states report reliable winter performance, especially with good tires.
“,”visible”:true},{“id”:”faq-question-10a5ae941d86″,”title”:”What Are Common Problems With The 2017 Latitude?”,”content”:”Some owners mention transmission issues (rough shifting) and small infotainment screens. Most problems are minor and can be fixed with updates or recalls.
“,”visible”:true},{“id”:”faq-question-b91044b73f74″,”title”:”Is The Cherokee Latitude Fuel Efficient?”,”content”:”The 2. 4L engine offers decent fuel economy for a compact SUV, getting about 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The V6 uses more fuel but gives better towing power.
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The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude remains a popular choice for drivers who want both comfort and adventure. Its combination of off-road capability, practical features, and solid reliability make it a smart buy for many people. For more detailed specs and owner reviews, visit Edmunds. If you’re considering a used Latitude, check for regular maintenance and any recalls to ensure a smooth experience.
“,”visible”:true}]} –>Is The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Good For Families?
Yes. It has comfortable seating for five, good safety features, and flexible cargo space. Families like the rearview camera and easy-to-clean interiors.
How Does The Latitude Perform In Snow?
The AWD system handles snow and slippery roads well. Many owners in colder states report reliable winter performance, especially with good tires.
What Are Common Problems With The 2017 Latitude?
Some owners mention transmission issues (rough shifting) and small infotainment screens. Most problems are minor and can be fixed with updates or recalls.
Is The Cherokee Latitude Fuel Efficient?
The 2. 4L engine offers decent fuel economy for a compact SUV, getting about 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The V6 uses more fuel but gives better towing power.
How Does The 2017 Latitude Compare To Newer Models?
Newer Cherokees have larger touchscreens, more advanced safety features, and improved transmissions. However, the 2017 Latitude still offers good value and strong performance for its price.
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude remains a popular choice for drivers who want both comfort and adventure. Its combination of off-road capability, practical features, and solid reliability make it a smart buy for many people. For more detailed specs and owner reviews, visit Edmunds. If you’re considering a used Latitude, check for regular maintenance and any recalls to ensure a smooth experience.
