The 2022 Jeep Cherokee near Bayard, NM Can Go Where Others Only Dare

We all know how popular the compact crossover segment of vehicles is currently; it's hard to keep track of them all with so many competitors. Nicknamed "soft-roaders," most of these are completely capable in basic driving situations but aren't as adept in off-road maneuvers. The Jeep Cherokee, however, isn't the typical suburban compact crossover. Despite being in the same class as the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V, the Cherokee compels us to rethink what a crossover is exactly and at what point does it become an SUV.

The small crossovers made by the mainstream brands are excellent for running errands around town and driving on longer trips. Like them, the Cherokee can accomplish these tasks just as well and has just as many safety features. But suppose you'd like more SUV essence with a choice of engines and better off-road capabilities. This is where the Jeep Cherokee asserts itself.

Why the 2022 Jeep Cherokee near Bayard, NM is Better

Most rival crossovers have only one engine available, but the Cherokee currently offers three. The base engine, a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder that puts out 180 horsepower, comes in the Latitude, Freedom, Altitude, and Latitude Plus trims. The next one is a 3.2-liter V6 delivering 271 hp, standard in the Latitude Lux, Limited, and Trailhawk trims. At the top of the list is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder which generates 270 hp as well.

Even though horsepower is almost the same in both options, the turbo has an extra 56 lb-ft of torque, which is great for quick acceleration and passing. It's good for up to 4,000 pounds for towing, as well, and its fuel economy ratings are similar to the standard engine, which rates 22/31 for city/highway. The turbo is standard equipment in the current High Altitude trim.

However, the best engine for towing is the V6 because it's rated for up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped. This one is a bit thirstier and is currently rated for 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. If you want a compact crossover or SUV with a V6, they're rare in this segment, so the Cherokee is your best bet.

A 9-speed automatic transmission is teamed with all three engines. Front-wheel drive is standard across the lineup (except the Trailhawk), but all-wheel drive is available with all three engines, depending on the trim level. These three powertrain combinations should remain the same for the 2022 Jeep Cherokee near Bayard, NM.

Which Trim is Best for You

The current Cherokee has a look of its own that combines a classy design with that famous Jeep ruggedness. You'll notice the classic seven-slot grille in the front, between narrow headlights and a wide air intake. At the rear, there are rectangular taillights and a beefy rear bumper with lots of body cladding.

A diverse range of models with several trims and options packages allows you to customize the Cherokee to your preference and budget needs. Although four-wheel drive is an option on most of the trims, it comes standard on the Trailhawk, which is the one off-roading enthusiasts should choose if they need a practical vehicle but want the trail-ready capabilities. It's the sole Cherokee model that's "Trail-Rated" by Jeep.

Technology was updated on 2021 models, with added driver-assist features, so we expect the 2022 Jeep Cherokee near Bayard, NM to arrive with few changes. There are nine different models, ranging in price from around $28,000 up to about $38,000. All models are now standard equipped with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, and cruise control, for starters.

The base model Latitude comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, manually adjusted front seats, a 7-inch touchscreen with FCA's excellent Uconnect 4 infotainment system, and a 6-speaker audio system. When you move up to the new Latitude Lux trim, heated power front seats with 4-way lumbar support are added, along with keyless entry/ignition, remote start, and satellite radio.

The newly created Latitude Lux adds the V6 engine and Nappa leather upholstery, and the 8.4-inch touchscreen becomes available. The Limited steps up the game by adding dual-zone auto climate control, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, a powered tailgate, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and parking assist. The 8.4-inch display becomes standard on all remaining models.

At the higher end of the trim assortment, the Trailhawk is the model to choose if you crave true off-road adventuring. It comes with 17-inch all-terrain tires, off-road suspension, real skid plate protection, and more 4WD hardware.

When Will It Arrive?

The company has yet to announce the release date of the upcoming 2022 Cherokee, but it will more than likely be sometime this fall. Until we know for sure, peruse our inventory online at your leisure. When you're ready to test drive, come over to Viva Jeep at 860 Telshor Blvd in Las Cruces, and we'll set you up!