Overview:
This is the 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4X4 SUV. Over the past two decades and more I have been in love with Jeep. Drove them in the Navy and since with a high degree of confidence I could go where and when I wanted. I’ve attended Jeep Camps and Jeep Jamboree’s and was amazed at what you could actually do in a Jeep. My experiences gave Off Road a whole new meaning. Literally we climbed over boulders and through the mud. One Red Jeep photo going through a muddy river had my other love at the wheel. She hates driving the freeway but had the nerve to pilot through a river of mud. Go figure.
After my driver training off road in Jeep schools I decided to take original Hummer off road on a course in the San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California. Of course you must, as I did, think Hummer had to be the pinnacle of off road vehicles. Desert Storm and all that, so off I went. I wasn’t in the canyon 15 minutes when I watched all the macho guys kicking up mud and dirt and rocks as they went fearlessly around the course. Naturally I thought I could do that with this hundred thousand Hummer. But noooo, I approached a somewhat muddy patch of riverbed and proceeded as if this Hummer was invincible. Result was to get bogged down up to the floorboards and was unable to lose my trusted steed. I was helplessly embarrassed.
A rickety old Chevrolet Blazer was kind enough to pull me out with his winch. Humility is a humbling thing. Later I was able to laugh at myself.
General Information: It is assembled in Toledo, Ohio. Parts – US/Canadian 69%, Mexico 18%; Engine and transmission – USA; Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Jeep: Cherokee, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Patriot, Renegade, Wrangler and Wrangler unlimited.
Handling & Performance:
Confident and solid. Lots of power as equipped with a V8 HEMI power plant. By the way, power is not as important as using gearing while in off road driving.
Styling:
Jeep – that really says it all.
Fit and Finish:
Too pretty for a King of off road.
Cost:
As expected, and competitive in class this segment of the market.
Conveniences and comfort:
Off Road standard features on this Trailhawk.
ACTIVE DRIVE 4X4
The Jeep® Active Drive 4×4 system features a Class-Exclusive+ rear axle disconnect feature that only engages when necessary for improved fuel efficiency. A Selec-Terrain® traction management system gives you all-weather capability in four modes: Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud. A standard Brake Lock Differential works with the advanced 4×4 system to provide outstanding capability for anything Mother Nature sends your way.
ACTIVE DRIVE LOW 4X4
The Jeep® Active Drive Low 4×4 system includes all the features of the Jeep® Active Drive I 4×4 system and adds a low-range for added capability. The 4WD Low mode is great for low-speed traction and works well for low-speed use, like pulling your boat trailer out of a lake. A remarkable 20:1 crawl ratio+ allows a more controlled throttle response at lower speeds. The Selec-Terrain®traction management system includes: Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud and Rock modes for added all-weather capability.
Consumer Recommendations:
I like them all, but some will be interested to know the Mitsubishi has the best warranty. Best fuel economy is the Subaru.
Jeep Cargo Management system adds handy hooks and a removable grocery bag holder as well as many available innovative and thoughtful add-on solutions including a first aid kit, pet kennel and cargo mat. In addition, the fold flat passenger seat allows for long items to be carried.
Recognized Competition:
Jeep Cherokee $32,000, Mitsubish Outlander $28,000, Kia Sorento $32,000, Dodge Journey $27,000, Hyundai Santa Fe $28,000, Subaru Outback $27,000.
Good News:
Granddaddy of Off Road vehicle experience.
Bad News:
n/a
Standard Equipment:
3.2 liter V6 engine, 9-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel drive, Jeep active drive II, select-terrain system, hill start assist, hill demand control, off road group and suspension, selec-speed crawl control, rear back up camera, Keyless entry with panic alarm, all speed traction control, stability control, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, front, side and side front and rear curtain airbags, rear seat side airbags, driver and passenger knee airbags, 8.4” touchscreen display, Cluster 7.0” color display, voice command with Bluetooth, audio jack input for mobile devices, front passenger fold flat seat, leather seating and leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, tilt and telescopic steering column, power wineows, cargo management system.
Gas Stats:
$2.30 / Gal avg. March 5, 2016
for more information.
19 City and 26 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $30,595