Jeep Simplifies Cherokee Lineup For 2023; No V6, AWD Only
Is this the final year for Jeep’s compact SUV?
The Jeep Cherokee has been on sale since 2014, with a facelift in 2019 that cleaned up its controversial bi-level front fascia. From 2019 onward, the vehicle has soldiered on largely unchanged, but for 2023, Jeep has simplified the model lineup.
The 2023 Jeep Cherokee now only comes with two trims, and two engines; the Altitude Lux 4×4, and Trailhawk 4×4. For the Altitude Lux 4×4, it will make do with the tried-and-true 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 180 horsepower and 171 ft/lbs of torque. The Trailhawk will see Jeep’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, serving up 270 horsepower and 295 ft/lbs of torque. The segment-exclusive 3.2-liter V6 option, along with front-wheel-drive, has been cut for 2023. Both engines come with Jeep’s nine-speed automatic, paired with one of two specialized AWD systems.
Both cars get the same UConnect 8.4-inch infotainment screen and gain adaptive cruise control as standard. But, like the engine lineup, the interior options have been simplified, the Cherokee can only be had with a black interior.
As Stellantis moves toward electrifying its models, it’s likely that the Cherokee in its current state won’t continue onward past 2023. Many of its competitors are offering electrified and hybridized powertrains, even Jeep itself sells 4xe PHEV versions of the Compass and Renegade in other markets, two cars that may show up in North America soon. The Cherokee’s basic design is old and in dire need of a total replacement.
Other reports say that the Belvidere, IL plant that currently produces the Cherokee will be idled in by the end of February 2023. Whether or not that means Cherokee production will be moved to Mexico, or just end entirely, remains to be seen.
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Kevin has been obsessed with cars ever since he could talk. He even learned to read partially by learning and reading the makes and models on the back of cars, only fueling his obsession. Today, he is an automotive journalist and member of the Automotive Press Association. He is well-versed in electrification, hybrid cars, and vehicle maintenance.
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As a 2 x cherokee owner, a compass owner and a liberty owner, Im said to read the my 20 Cherokee ltd will soon be an antique. I thoroughly enjoy my ownership experience. It is quiet, smooth, powerful, and loaded with convenience and safety features. Ive been reading about an electric Compass replacement that looks great. Looking forward to seeing and driving it. Depending on how the Wrangler evolves Id consider it. I and my family are devoted Jeep owners.
funny you guys didn't say that about Rav4, forester, outback, cx5 bmw x3 all thise designs are old and outdated too. My god I get it it is your job to want all new toys in the workplace but give a car a few years to settle. And yes the shiny new toy always wins, if you can afford it problem with Jeep is their products all target the Jeep customer which is looking for a typically rugged off road vehicle which is a small market. wheras all the other cute utes only want to look on paper like they can go off road. and people still want efficiency in their cute little utes so that i think is why they all cross shop each other but win in the sales figures because most people could really care less about going off road.