If you are thinking about buying a 2023 Jeep Cherokee you are looking at one of the more practical and capable SUVs in its class. It gives you a solid balance of comfort, performance, and everyday usability that works well for families and solo drivers alike. Ken Ganley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Mentor has helped a lot of local buyers find the right Cherokee trim and this review covers what you need to know before making your decision.
What Kind of SUV Is the Cherokee
The Cherokee sits between the compact Compass and the larger Grand Cherokee in Jeep's lineup. It is a good middle ground for buyers who want more space than a small crossover but do not need a full three row vehicle. The 2023 model year was the final production year for the Cherokee which makes it a particularly interesting buy right now. New inventory is limited and used models with low miles are showing up at solid prices.
Around Mentor Ohio where winters can be rough the Cherokee handles slippery roads with confidence especially when equipped with the available four wheel drive system. It is built for year round use not just fair weather driving.
Engine Options Worth Knowing
The 2023 Cherokee comes with two engine choices and the difference between them matters depending on how you plan to drive.
The base 2.4 liter four cylinder is perfectly fine for everyday use. It handles commutes and errands without issue and delivers decent fuel economy. If you mostly drive around town and do not need extra punch this engine works well enough.
The available 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder is the stronger pick for buyers who want better highway performance. It accelerates more confidently and feels much more composed during passing and merging. Most buyers who test drive both engines tend to lean toward the turbo even if they originally thought the base option would be enough.
Interior Comfort and Technology
This is honestly one of the stronger areas of the 2023 Cherokee. The cabin feels well built and the materials are a step above what you find in a lot of competing crossovers at this price. The Uconnect infotainment system is one of the easier systems to learn and the touchscreen responds quickly without any lag.
Rear seat space is comfortable for two adults on longer drives which is not always the case in this segment. Cargo space behind the rear seats is practical for everyday needs and folding the seats down gives you a decent flat loading area for bigger items.
Higher trims like the Limited and Overland add leather seating, a bigger touchscreen, and more driver assist technology. If you are shopping used and want a fully loaded Cherokee those are the two trims worth targeting specifically.
Off Road Capability and the Trailhawk
The Cherokee is not a hardcore trail vehicle but it handles more terrain than most people expect from a crossover. The Trailhawk trim is the one built specifically for buyers who want real off road ability. It comes with skid plates, all terrain tires, a rear locking differential, and a more capable four wheel drive system with a low range setting.
If you spend time on dirt roads or light trails near Mentor Ohio the Trailhawk is worth a serious look. Buyers who also want to explore the larger Grand Cherokee option can compare both before making a final decision at the dealership.
New vs Used Cherokee Right Now
Since 2023 was the last model year for the Cherokee new inventory is harder to find. But that also means pricing on remaining stock tends to be more flexible. On the used side there are 2023 Cherokees with under 20,000 miles available at prices well below original MSRP.
Both options have real merit depending on your budget and priorities. The team at Ken Ganley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Mentor can walk you through what is currently on the lot and help you compare options without any pressure.
Financing and Visiting the Dealership
Monthly payments on a Cherokee are generally more manageable than larger SUVs which makes it accessible for a wider range of buyers. The finance team works with multiple lenders so buyers at different credit levels have real options to work with.
Getting pre approved before your visit saves time and gives you a clearer picture of your budget before you fall in love with a specific trim. If you are in the Mentor Ohio area and want to see the Cherokee in person a test drive is really the best way to know if it fits your lifestyle.
