This compact sport utility vehicle is capable of taking on challenging terrain with considerable adeptness.
It’s difficult for the competition to match the 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk when it comes to off-road chops. The Jeep brand is known for its off-roading proficiency and the Trailhawk certainly makes it easier and more enjoyable.
The longtime calling card for all Jeeps has been their off-road capability. That’s where Jeeps definitely set themselves apart from rivals, giving folks who want a small SUV the ability to experience some cool off-road adventures.
The Trailhawk offers an appealing combination of standard equipment and off-road options. It comes standard with a stiff chassis, all-wheel drive, 17-inch off-road tires, and has an 8.5-inch clearance.
Also available is an Active Drive Lock system that features a two-speed Power Transfer Unit, and includes a locking rear differential that makes it well-equipped for the trails. The Trailhawk is perfect for climbing over and heading down steep terrain.
A Selec-Terrain system provides additional stability and traction on non-pavement. The Trailhawk has five modes (auto, sport, snow, rock, sand-mud).
Although outclassed in many traditional areas by several competitors – most notably the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4 – the off-road package Jeep provides is impressive. All four 2020 trim models (Sport, Latitude, Limited, Trailhawk) have all-wheel drive. Yet when it comes to climbing rocks and taking on muddy terrain, the Trailhawk version is the one that really delivers.
There’s a choice of engines with the Trailhawk and both include a nine-speed automatic transmission. The standard one is a 3.2-liter, V6 that generates 271 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque. It goes 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds.
The optional turbocharged engine is considered a better choice that naturally comes at an additional cost. It’s a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder that delivers 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It has better low-end torque than the V6 and that comes in handy when pushing up a steep mountain pass.
Overall, the Trailhawk offers a good ride and handling for the class. It comes with wider wheels and all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, off-road-oriented suspension tuning, a locking rear differential, hill ascent and descent control, skid plates, tow hooks, and unique upholstery.
The V6 has a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds, while the turbo is limited to 4,000 pounds.
AT A GLANCE – 2020 JEEP CHEROKEE TRAILHAWK
- Performance: 3.2-liter, V6, 271 horsepower; turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, 270 horsepower
- Mileage estimate: 20-23 mpg; 23.31 mpg
- Price estimate: $34,900
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; drivetrain: 5 years/60,000 miles; roadside assistance: 5 years/60,000; corrosion: 5 years/unlimited
All Jeep Cherokee models can accommodate five people, yet three adults in the back seat is a tight fit.
All Jeep Cherokee models can accommodate five people, yet three adults in the back seat is a tight fit. Two adults will find plenty of head and leg room, which is not always the case in a compact SUV. The cargo space is 26 cubic feet that increases to 55 cubes with the second row down.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard in the Cherokee. The entry-level 8.4-inch infotainment system is solid, even if the icons are on the small side.
For anyone looking for a compact SUV with off-road qualities, the 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk should be a strong consideration.
Weidel on Wheels is featured regularly on www.tahoeskiworld.com. Auto writer Jeffrey Weidel can be reached at skiweidel@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffweidel.
