I am a long time Jeep owner and have been offroading since 2000. I started with a Dodge Durango 4x4, replaced that with a '72 CJ-5 I built for rock crawling and then bought a used '06 LJ that I had started to modify for off-road/expedition use. The LJ worked great but was lacking adequet power for pulling my trailer on the highway. I started looking for a replacement and not long after Jeep anounced the new Cherokee. I placed the order 2 days after the order banks were opened last August. I know this was taking a chance but this was the only vehicle that offered all the options I felt I needed in a new vehicle. Small Size, good towing capacity, 4 wheel drive and comfortable on long trips. I opted for a Trailhawk with leather, comfort/convenience group and tow package. The only reason for the leather is that the cloth seats were not available when I placed the order.
I actually own a 2104 Cherokee Trailhawk and thought I would share my opinions after 6 months and 9K miles of driving it.
1) Quite possibly this is the most comfortable vehicle I have ever owned. Every Jeep in the lineup should come standard with these seats. I am 5' 11" 270 lbs. I have no problems getting comfotable. With the drivers seat set for me I can sit behind it and my knees do not hit the drivers seat back.
2) The V-6 has plenty of power and with the towing package handles my trailer without any issues.
3) there are 2 12V power ports available. One in the center console and one in rear area (perfect for a fridge). each is on its own circuit.
4) There is a built in 120V converter at the base of the console.
5) The cargo rea is small but with the rear seats fodled down there is ample capacity. the added bonus is that the front passenger seat also folds flat. In that configuration I can load 8' lumber inside with the hatch closed.
6) The 9 speed takes a little time to get used too. It likes to keep the engine RPMS low. Thank fully they included a Electronic Range Select function so you can pick the gear that it can not go above. With 4 overdrive gears (6th - 9th) there is a perfect gear for almost any situation.
7) I average 21~22 MPG on my daily commute in Dalals Traffic. On my last road trip I averaged 26+ at 100% highway.
8) I have tried out all the 4x4 functions but have not had time to really put them to the test. They seem to work well but only time will tell.
Overall, I am very happy with this vehicle and glad I bought it.
Don't get me wrong, I am not under any illusion as to what it is capable of. It won't run the hard core trails. But it will take you off the beaten path in comfort and get you back home. The only thing I really want is rocker protection and that is just a matter of getting the funds to do it.
