Top 10 Highlights of the Fifth-Generation Jeep Cherokee

The fifth-generation Jeep Cherokee, colloquially known as the KL generation, introduced a number of great features between 2014 and 2023. If you're interested in shopping for a used Jeep Cherokee for sale but you're not entirely sure which model to go with, or which features were introduced that helped redefine the value of Jeep's compact SUV, we did the work for you by putting together a quick list of feature highlights. This will provide you with some insight into which used Cherokee models come with specific updates that you might want to add to your shopping list. Alternatively, it will give you ideas for the features that you consider to be must-haves when shopping for a Jeep Cherokee for sale, whether you're looking for a good daily driver, a small family SUV, or a weekend adventure vehicle.

#1 - Trailhawk

One of the staple trims as part of the Jeep brand has been the Trailhawk. Its name evokes a sense of adventure and competence, and this trim was introduced for the fifth-generation Cherokee with the 2014 model year and has been available up to the 2023 model-year Cherokee. What makes the Trailhawk worthwhile?

If you want a great-looking compact SUV that can handle your rough and tumble lifestyle, then the Trailhawk is the go-to option for those seeking a rugged iteration of the Cherokee. It comes packed with an off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and skid plates. You can also expect premium interior features and infotainment options, oftentimes making it a preferred option among those who want a compact yet off-road-ready version of the Cherokee with some premium cabin appointments.

#2 - Uconnect Siri Eyes Free Functionality

The exclusive Uconnect system has been the operating infotainment suite for Jeep vehicles for years. However, a special consideration needs to be made for the Uconnect system from 2016 onward, as it sets a good foundation for what future iterations of the system would build upon. This didn't just include the basic smartphone integration but also a number of other quality-of-life updates.

The Uconnect with the 8.4-inch touchscreen received the Siri Eyes Free technology during this time. This feature enables drivers to use voice-activated commands like hands-free text messaging and calls. Plus, new quality of life implementations like drag-and-drop touchscreen functionality and "Do Not Disturb" for calls and texts helped round out more robust infotainment features in future updates. Anyone shopping for a pre-owned Cherokee for sale will appreciate any 2016 or newer model for its enhanced infotainment features.

#3 - Latitude Plus

For shoppers who want more than a base Cherokee without venturing into luxury pricing, the Latitude Plus is the perfect solution. The introduction of the Latitude Plus with the 2018 model year builds on all of the standard features that come with the entry-level Latitude. You have the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and keyless entry and go.

The interior comes with a power driver seat with lumbar support, cloth seats with leather inserts, and a leather steering wheel with audio controls. Touches like the 115-volt AC outlet and ambient lighting add to the cabin appeal. If you're looking for a good premium trim when shopping for a used Jeep Cherokee for sale, the Latitude Plus is well worth consideration.

#4 - Engine Stop/Start

Some shoppers consider the automatic Engine Stop/Start or ESS to be a controversial feature, but for those who value fuel efficiency for commutes, this has been a very appreciated highlight. If you're shopping for a used Jeep Cherokee, any fifth-generation V6-equipped model after 2015 comes equipped with the ESS functionality. This helps regulate how the engine operates to reduce fuel consumption, granting you fuel-saving costs for daily commutes and long drives.

The feature was first rolled out for the Cherokee models equipped with the Pentastar V6, and then became more widely available for future models and powertrains. This slight boost to the fuel economy is worth it for those who need a good compact for long commutes. In addition to the rugged design, having a fuel-efficient daily driver is a huge boon for those searching for a practical compact SUV.

#5 - Latitude LUX

One of the highlights throughout the fifth-generation Cherokee's run has been the introduction of trims that elevate the features of the compact SUV. The Latitude LUX debuted with a 2021 model year outing, featuring a nice combination of daily driving practicality and some upscale luxury elements. The Latitude LUX sits in the middle of the trim lineup, making it appealing for those who want a Cherokee that's more than just a basic daily driver, but you're not willing to spend top-dollar for the Cherokee. 

The Latitude LUX sports upscale interior appointments, such as Nappa leather seats, power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wrapped steering wheel. Added features like the remote access and start, and the windshield wiper de-icer make the Latitude Lux useful for a multitude of drivers. Whether you need an all-season SUV, a good daily driver, or a luxury-themed adventure vehicle, the Latitude Lux fits the bill.

#6 - Alexa Skill Technology

Throughout the fifth generation of the Cherokee, Jeep has consistently upgraded many of its features, including its infotainment. While the Uconnect has seen impressive updates over the years, one of the key highlights that has helped make the tech stack feel more intuitive and user-friendly has been the inclusion of the Alexa Skill Technology for the Uconnect 4C and 4C NAV suite. This made its debut with the 2020 model year Jeep Cherokee.

Alexa Skill Technology works in conjunction with the Jeep Connect suite, enabling you to use voice-activated commands to control the Jeep Cherokee. This is an extremely useful feature for performing a number of commands. You can turn on the Cherokee, check the fuel levels, navigate to specific destinations, or regulate cabin climate. If you're in the market for a used Jeep Cherokee with modern voice-activated commands, getting a Cherokee with the Alexa Skill functionality adds a lot of value to your purchase.

#7 - Enhanced Standard Safety Features

A robust set of enhanced driver assist features and alert systems greatly enhances the confidence of the driver and passengers whenever you take the vehicle out on the road. More standard safety enhancements make for an excellent solo or family vehicle, especially if you do a lot of inner city driving and want a robust SUV for safely navigating bumper-to-bumper or rush hour traffic. You're in luck, because every fifth-generation Cherokee after 2021 comes with enhanced standard safety features across the trim line.

Every model comes with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross path detection, along with Forward Collision Warning with active automatic emergency braking. Both LaneSense and lane departure warnings are present, along with Lane Keep Assist and rain-sensing wipers. Whether you're doing daily errands or long highway commutes, the enhanced safety features of later-model fifth-generation Cherokee SUVs provide you with the confidence to get to your destination safely.

#8 - Altitude LUX 4x4

Jeep trimmed down the trim options for the 2023 Cherokee, giving shoppers only two options in the form of the Trailhawk and the Altitude LUX, both of which were only available with 4x4 systems. Some people might see this as very limiting and reducing the options for the 2023 model year, but the Altitude LUX, as a new model, sports some of the most feature-rich content for a Cherokee.

The Altitude LUX 4x4 comes equipped with Piano Black interior cabin accents, Nappa leather seats, LED lighting array, and gloss black trimming with matching badging. It's a properly equipped model with adaptive cruise control, parking assist, the Uconnect 4C NAV infotainment suite, and a unique exterior appearance. It's a nice cross-section of rugged capability and upscale appeal packed into a compact package. It's well worth considering for anyone looking for a used premium Cherokee model at a competitive price.

#9 - 2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine

A compact size, comfortable interior, and robust set of technologies are all great, but what good is convenience if you don't enjoy driving the vehicle? Jeep solved this problem for the Cherokee by having multiple powertrains available throughout the fifth generation, and continued to refine the offerings over the years. For the 2019 model year, the Cherokee received a fuel-efficient and turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

The 2.0-liter direct-injection system makes use of the engine stop-start technology introduced with the 2015 model year, and accompanies additional refinements such as increased cargo capacity and the added dual-pane sunroof. Used Jeep Cherokee buyers who want responsive performance, great cargo capacity, and premium interior appointments will definitely appreciate any 2019 or newer Cherokee model.

#10 - Jeep Cherokee X

One of the more recent trims added to the Jeep Cherokee's arsenal during the fifth generation has been the Cherokee X. This was a one-off trim that replaced the base model for the 2022 Jeep Cherokee. However, unlike other starter trims, this trim is richly featured for an entry-level model. Pairing the rugged capabilities of the Jeep brand with some unique styling cues makes the Cherokee X a rare base trim.

The Cherokee X has its own individual exterior appearance, paired with cloth and vinyl seats featuring original inserts, a one-inch lifted suspension and the 3.2-liter Pentastar V6. This is a rare, powerful trim that is perfect for someone shopping for an affordable used Jeep Cherokee for sale that has its own stylistic flavor. At the same time, it's also powerful and feature-rich in all the right ways for weekend warriors and outdoor adventurers.