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2016 Jeep Cherokee review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Jeep Cherokee highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Strong V6 engine option
  • Smooth and comfortable ride
  • Off-road capability on select trims

Cons

  • Base engine may feel underpowered
  • Competitors offer more cargo space
  • Interior design feels outdated

Mileage (EPA estimate)

19 city, 25 highway, 22 combined

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Plenty of space in this versatile SUV

The 2016 Jeep Cherokee brings notable tech enhancements, including Siri® Eyes Free compatibility for models with the available Uconnect® system. This SUV remains a strong contender if you’re looking for a versatile run-around that can also cope when the weather turns. It offers a great mix of urban comfort and off-road capability, particularly with the rugged Trailhawk trim.

All Jeep Cherokee years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Jeep Cherokee generation from 2014 to 2026

What is new for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee?

  • New trim level introduced for enhanced customization options.
  • All models now include advanced safety features as standard equipment.
  • Updated infotainment system with improved connectivity options.
  • New engine option available for better fuel efficiency.

5 reasons to buy the 2016 Jeep Cherokee

1. Off-road-ready Trailhawk trim 

The Trailhawk trim stands out for adventurers, featuring Jeep’s Active Drive II system and increased ground clearance. this makes it adept at handling challenging terrain whether that's crawling over rocks or just heading down to the lake. It’s equipped for serious off-roading with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, tow hooks, and underbody skid plates. 

2. Practical four-cylinder 

For economy-focused drivers, the standard 2.4L four-cylinder engine provides balanced performance, especially in front-wheel-drive configurations. It'll get an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined in front-wheel drive models.

This drops to an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined on Active Drive I models with the four-cylinder engine.

3. Refined V6 engine 

The available 3.2L V6 engine in the 2016 Cherokee offers robust performance with 271 horsepower. This power makes the Cherokee a versatile choice for daily commutes and longer journeys. Look out for the available tow package and you'll be able to pull an estimated 4,500 lbs with the V6, when properly equipped.

 

4. Plenty of features 

All 2016 Cherokee models feature a comfortable ride, suitable for a variety of road conditions. The addition of Siri® Eyes Free to Uconnect® models enhances driver convenience, allowing for easy voice control. Higher trims like Latitude and Limited add extra luxuries, including premium materials and advanced driver assists — such as blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and more. 

5. Roomy interior 

The Cherokee’s interior is thoughtfully designed, offering comfort and space for all passengers. With a generous cargo area of 24.6 cu-ft that expands to 54.9 cu-ft with the rear seats folded, you get plenty of versatility in this practical SUV. Time to load up with your favorite people and some camping gear for a vacation in the wild. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

3.9 out of 5

46 customer reviews
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee is praised for its smooth ride, bold styling, and impressive handling in various weather conditions. Its V6 engine offers strong performance but fuel economy varies, with mixed reviews for city efficiency. Technology is appreciated but some find settings overwhelming. While interior comfort is noted, space and visibility concerns arise. Reliability is generally solid.

RepairPal reliability rating

4
Excellent

RepairPal gave the Jeep Cherokee an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks Jeep Cherokee 8th out of 29 among Compact SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Jeep Cherokee

Jeep Cherokee features and specs

Curious how Jeep Cherokee trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Sport 4D Sport Utility 2WD

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Automatic Transmission
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input

Optional Features

  • Heated Mirrors
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Running Boards
  • Tow Hitch
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.4L

Horsepower

184

Torque (ft-lbs)

171

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

15.8

Wheelbase

106.3"

Width

73.2"

Height

65.7"

Leg room

F 41.1"/R 40.3"

Head room

F 39.4"/R 38.5"

Front tires

P225/60TR17

Rear tires

P225/60TR17

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

200/2000 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2016 Jeep Cherokee FAQ

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