A new model year brings in a new trim for the Jeep Cherokee compact crossover, specifically in the form of a new “X” offering.
With availability later this year (no specific date or pricing has yet been released) the new trim features a redesigned front fascia and new graphics, with an “X” on the front doors, a graphic on the hood, and, punching its old-school ticket, Jeep’s included a retro “Four Wheel Drive” image on the rear.
Performance-wise, a 3.2L Pentastar V6 engine comes standard, as does a one-inch lifted suspension, and, to keep you comfy while you’re in motion, upgraded cloth-vinyl seats with unique inserts cap off the laundry list of “X” features.
The fifth-generation Cherokee first drove up as a 2014 model year offering, and while it saw some slight tweaks in 2019, the proverbial tooth is getting much longer each year.
The 2022 Jeep Cherokee X Photo by Stellantis
The 2022 Jeep Cherokee X Photo by Stellantis
The 2022 Jeep Cherokee X Photo by Stellantis
I doubt this Cherokee generation will live as long as the current Toyota 4Runner, at 15 years, but the new X trim buys Jeep a bit of time before an all-new version has to be rolled out. New trims are cheap but not always great ways to lengthen the bridge toward a new generation, so for Jeep’s sake, let’s hope the new one comes in sooner than later.
Interestingly, as per a recent Car and Driver article, the U.S. market has stopped offering the notoriously sluggish 2.4L engine for 2022 Cherokees, while as of the time of publishing, it’s still on the base Sport trim in Canada.
The new X trim will slot dead centre in the range, with the North and Altitude trims beneath it; and Trailhawk and Limited above it.
Keyword: Jeep adds new 'X' trim to Cherokee line for 2022