One of those rare designs that are just as much fun to drive both on and off the pavement, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD is a great choice for all-round comfort. A smooth and well-balanced ride that’s quieter than many of its peers, its fast and accurate steering can handle even the sharpest turns with effortless precision.
Off-road, the Trailhawk really delivers the goods, particularly over ground that is rougher than the average country place driveway. Although lacking the heavy-duty axles and generous ground clearance of the noisier and choppier Wrangler, the Cherokee is a better choice for drivers following trails rather than setting out on cross-country adventures.
User-Friendly Controls
The simplicity of its off-road settings means it’s easy to switch between road mode and rougher rides. Drive modes are quickly selected by just spinning a dial or pressing buttons, with terrain response settings for sport, snow, mud, sand, or rock.
In fact, simplicity is a keyword for the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, which uses large buttons and dials to control almost everything. The main exception to this rule is the heating system, which is controlled through the centre screen for heating the steering wheel, as well as heating and ventilating the seats.
Practical and Easy to Load
Endowed with all the inherent practicality of hatchbacks, the 2019 Trailhawk is easy to load, with an optional power liftgate. Fold-down seats provide extra space, while the cargo floor can be set at two different heights, with a maximum capacity of 781 litres of space.
Cabin Comfort and Convenience
Although its cabin is relatively narrow, there’s still plenty of room in the footwells, although rear passengers might feel a little cramped if the front seats are pushed all the way back. Overall, its seats are designed with plenty of back support, even in the rear, with a particularly good driving position.
Small-item storage nooks include a dashtop company cubby with a locking cover, another cubby under the centre stack, door pockets and the usual console box and glove box. Other package options include an auto-dimming mirror, a wiper de-icer; a tonneau cover, a push-button start, and a garage door opener.
Top-Tier Infotainment System
Ranked as one of the best in the industry, the Uconnect infotainment system is easy to use, with intuitive menus and large icons indicating its functions. Drivers wanting extra navigation help can sign up for yearly subscriptions to SiriusXM Guardian connected services.
Turbo Version Adds Power
Designed to stay in the higher gears whenever possible, the transmission and engine work smoothly together for a dynamic performance that also saves fuel. With a considerable torque boost over the V6 engine, the two litre turbo option and a generous shot of power when hitting the throttle.
New Look for 2019
Easily recognised by its signature seven-slotted Jeep grill, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD follows general crossover styling conventions. Interesting details include its characteristic red tow hooks, with a Trail Rated badge confirming that this trim level meets Jeep’s stringent off-road standards for ground clearance, articulation, manoeuvrability, traction, and water fording.
Its unique upholstery features red stitching, with practical all-season floor mats. Other features include automatic headlamps, skid plates and ascent/descent control.
Ranked High for Safety
Earning four stars (out of five) from the NHTSA for crash protection, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk scored a good rating from the IIHS. Additional high-tech safety features are available through optional packages, including:
- touch-sensitive lane-keep assist;
- forward collision warning;
- emergency braking; and
- blind spot monitoring.
Takeaways
Buyers wanting something more than a regular compact sport-ute should consider 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD. A fun off-road drive that’s also safe and comfortable on-road, there are many good reasons why its fans call it the Wrangler Lite.
