Test Drive: 2014 Jeep Cherokee

The tester also got a high-resolution back-up camera with guidelines, the best touchscreen infotainment system in the segment, super-slick Garmin navigation, an intelligent key system, push-button start, windshield wiper de-icers, and more. So, feature content is top notch – especially considering the as-tested price well under $35,000 with a mountain of add-on goodies. For comparison’s sake, a 2014 Honda CR-V Touring, priced similarly, has leather seats and a sunroof which are lacking from the Cherokee tester, but it skips most of the other feature content, any form of control over its AWD system, and turns in nearly 90 fewer horsepower from its sole four-cylinder engine offering.

Your writer noted no issues with entry or exit, or headroom, or noise levels, or visibility, or parking either.

Complaints? Should shoppers choose not to opt for certain features in their Cherokee, plenty of ‘blank’ buttons inside will be their constant reminder of the options that could have been. Further, while contemplating which of its nine gears to call up, the transmission can feel a little klutzy at times.

Ultimately, those test driving the segment’s numerous offerings should find Cherokee to offer a leading blend of quality, power, comfort, refinement, four-wheel-drive technology, must-have features and very handy touches – and all at a very decent price. Consider this one a priority test-drive.

2014 Jeep Cherokee North Edition 4×4, driver’s seat, touchscreen, media ports. Click image to enlarge

Pricing: 2014 Jeep Cherokee North Edition 4×4
Base price: $27,195
Options: V6 engine – $1,595, Cold Weather Group – $795, Comfort and Convenience Group – $1,295, Uconnect $750, Stereo Upgrade – $400, ParkView Back-up Camera – $425.
Freight: $1,695
A/C Fee: $100
As Tested: $34,250

Competitors
Chevrolet Equinox
Ford Escape
GMC Terrain
Honda CR-V
Hyundai Santa Fe
Kia Sportage
Mazda CX-5
Mitsubishi Outlander
Nissan Rogue
Subaru Forester
Toyota RAV4