For buyers searching the used SUV market, the 2016 Cherokee remains a standout—affordable, versatile, and capable of much more than daily commuting.
Under the Hood: Powertrains with Purpose
Jeep offered the 2016 Cherokee with two distinct engines, catering to drivers who prefer either efficiency or power.
Powertrain Options:
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Tigershark I4 | 184 hp | 171 lb-ft | 9-speed automatic | FWD or 4WD |
| 3.2L Pentastar V6 | 271 hp | 239 lb-ft | 9-speed automatic | FWD or 4WD |
The 2.4L Tigershark engine is standard across most trims and offers respectable fuel economy for light-duty drivers. The 3.2L V6, exclusive to upper trims, delivers impressive performance with strong acceleration, ideal for drivers who need extra towing capability or plan to explore rougher roads.
Fuel Economy: Efficient Where It Matters
Despite its capability-focused design, the 2016 Cherokee remains surprisingly efficient—particularly with the base I4 engine.
| Configuration | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L I4 FWD | 22 | 31 | 25 |
| 2.4L I4 4WD | 21 | 28 | 24 |
| 3.2L V6 FWD | 21 | 29 | 24 |
| 3.2L V6 4WD | 20 | 28 | 23 |
The 9-speed automatic transmission is tuned to optimize gear selection for both economy and responsiveness, although earlier versions had some hesitations at lower speeds—a factor addressed in later software updates.
Trim Levels: Built for All Walks of Life
The Cherokee offers a remarkably diverse lineup, from fleet-friendly base models to near-luxury variants.
Trim Overview:
| Trim | Key Features | MSRP (New, 2016) |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | Cloth seats, 5-inch touchscreen, steel wheels | $23,495 |
| Latitude | Roof rails, upgraded cloth, alloy wheels | $25,295 |
| Altitude | Gloss black styling, 18-inch black wheels | $25,295 |
| Limited | Leather seats, 8.4-inch touchscreen, heated front seats | $29,195 |
| Trailhawk | Skid plates, tow hooks, Active Drive Lock 4×4 | $30,995 |
| Overland (late add) | Nappa leather, navigation, body-color cladding | $34,895 |
If you’re looking for off-road capability, the Trailhawk is unrivaled. Want more luxury? The Overland and Limited trims deliver upscale interiors and a quiet ride without sacrificing practicality.
Trail-Rated Toughness: Off-Road Credibility
Unlike most compact SUVs that only talk about going off-road, the Cherokee—particularly in Trailhawk form—walks the walk. It’s one of the few compact crossovers to wear the Trail Rated badge with pride.
Trailhawk Off-Road Highlights:
- Jeep Active Drive Lock 4WD system with low range
- Selec-Terrain® system with Rock mode
- Skid plates, off-road suspension, and hill descent control
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance
- 1-inch factory lift and 17-inch off-road tires
Whether you’re climbing a snow-packed trailhead or simply navigating a muddy backroad, the Cherokee Trailhawk is a segment outlier—part crossover, part mountain goat.
Interior Quality and Cargo Space
Inside, the Cherokee continues to impress. Fit and finish surpass expectations in mid-range trims, with thoughtful use of soft-touch materials and a driver-focused layout.
Interior Specs:
| Feature | Measurement / Detail |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Passenger Volume | 104.4 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume (seats up) | 24.6 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume (folded) | 54.9 cubic feet |
The rear seatbacks fold nearly flat, expanding cargo options, and multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin make it as useful as it is comfortable.
Technology and Infotainment
Even by today’s standards, the 2016 Cherokee’s infotainment system remains relevant—especially when equipped with the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen.
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| 5-inch touchscreen | Standard on Sport |
| 8.4-inch Uconnect | Latitude and above |
| Navigation | Optional on Limited/Overland |
| Bluetooth & Voice Command | Standard from base |
| Dual-zone climate control | Standard on Limited and higher |
While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto weren’t yet available, Uconnect remains one of the most user-friendly systems on the market.
Safety and Ratings
Safety features on the 2016 Cherokee include standard airbags, traction control, and optional advanced features.
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Rearview Camera | Standard from Latitude up |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Optional on Limited/Trailhawk |
| Forward Collision Warning | Available with Advanced Safety |
| Lane Departure Warning | Available |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Available on higher trims |
The 2016 Cherokee earned four stars overall from the NHTSA and offers peace of mind thanks to its solid build and available active safety systems.
Towing and Utility
One area where the Cherokee truly excels is towing capability. Unlike most crossovers in its class, it can haul more than just groceries.
| Engine | Max Towing Capacity (when equipped) |
|---|---|
| 2.4L I4 | 2,000 lbs |
| 3.2L V6 | 4,500 lbs |
When equipped with the V6 and factory tow package, the Cherokee leads its segment in towing—making it an ideal companion for hauling small boats, trailers, or utility gear.
Final Verdict: Still a Top Used SUV Pick
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee may not be the newest compact SUV on the road, but it remains one of the most capable and well-rounded. It offers real off-road capability, everyday comfort, flexible cargo space, and a wide range of trims to fit nearly every budget and lifestyle.
For used SUV shoppers who want more than a city commuter and need a little adventure baked into their daily drive, the 2016 Cherokee hits a sweet spot between utility and refinement.
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