2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee: the modern Liberty replacement SUV
Is it a real Jeep? The primary Jeep criterion under AMC was being able to cross the Rubicon Trail. Jeep's Jim Morrison said he has taken the Trailhawk across the full Rubicon trail, no winching, no shortcuts, no tricks - so it appears to be a "real Jeep," by AMC's rules. (Another source said it passed Chrysler's Chelsea Proving Grounds replica of key Rubicon obstacles circa 1990.)
The original "XJ" Jeep Cherokee was major innovation for its day, with a powerful yet efficient engine, a high space-to-footprint ratio, and strong offroad capabilities. Comparing the two Cherokees, the new Jeep has far better cornering, ride, acceleration, gas mileage, and noise reduction; but it also has less ground clearance and lower approach and breakover angles, and is almost impossible to modify.
Mobility features in the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk include:
These features are not present in other Trailhawks (other than rear axle disconnect).
Is it a real Jeep? The primary Jeep criterion under AMC was being able to cross the Rubicon Trail. Jeep's Jim Morrison said he has taken the Trailhawk across the full Rubicon trail, no winching, no shortcuts, no tricks - so it appears to be a "real Jeep," by AMC's rules. (Another source said it passed Chrysler's Chelsea Proving Grounds replica of key Rubicon obstacles circa 1990.)
The original "XJ" Jeep Cherokee was major innovation for its day, with a powerful yet efficient engine, a high space-to-footprint ratio, and strong offroad capabilities. Comparing the two Cherokees, the new Jeep has far better cornering, ride, acceleration, gas mileage, and noise reduction; but it also has less ground clearance and lower approach and breakover angles, and is almost impossible to modify.
Mobility features in the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk include:
- Leading approach, breakover, and departure angles
- 4x4 with low range (crawl ratios up to 56:1) and locking rear differential
- 20 inches of water-crossing capability (at up to 5 mph)
- Tow hooks that can handle 1.5 times the Cherokee's gross vehicle weight
- Best-in-class 4,500 pounds of towing capacity (close to XJ Cherokee)
These features are not present in other Trailhawks (other than rear axle disconnect).
1997 | 2014 Cherokee | 2012 | 2013 |
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