The Jeep Cherokee Limited and the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk are often compared against each other for a number of reasons. Apart from sharing many similarities, they are both under the Cherokee models, which makes Jeep enthusiasts pit these two vehicles for comparison purposes. This article will compare Jeep Cherokee Limited vs Trailhawk in terms of usage, features, and what they bring to the users.
| Features | Limited | Trailhawk |
| Price | More Expensive | Less Expensive |
| Engine | 3.2L V5 Gas 2.0L Turbo | 3.2L V5 Gas |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive | Four-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Fuel Economy | City: 19 MPG Highway: 27 MPG | City: 18 MPG Highway: 24 MPG |
| Seating Capacity | 5 Seater | 5 Seater |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.8 Liters | 15.8 Liters |
Table of Contents
Jeep Cherokee Limited
The Jeep Cherokee which was introduced in 1974 has evolved throughout the years with over five generations of models. It has evolved from a full-sized SUV to Compact SUV to its current Crossover SUV.
The fifth-generation Jeep Cherokee was introduced in 2014 and is known to have a unique look at the front. Some enthusiasts found a sharp space at the front, while others found a deal-breaker.
But the Jeep Cherokee Limited today is built for driving on flat roads using the standard engine in most Cherokee’s, which is the 2.4 liters non-turbo four cylinders. It also comes with the first level of the four-wheel-drive called the active drive 1, a new feature that is lighter and more fuel-efficient.
The Jeep Cherokee Limited is lighter and provides extra torque for passing. The limited model will keep the noise down on the road and feels very comfortable. It also handles curves as expected from a vehicle with excellent off-road shocks.
Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk
If you like to drive in off-road conditions using a Cherokee, the Trailhawk is an ideal fit in this type of condition. As a start, this vehicle’s ground clearance is higher, and its unique facials improved the approach and departure angles. It also comes with skid plates, a matt finish hood, and red-colored tool hooks, which look very cool.
The Trailhawk also comes with the most capable Active 2 Four-wheel drive system with an active drive lock. It provides a mechanically locking gear differential which is valuable for Jeep owners who want to use this tool for off-road driving.
This vehicle is also the only Cherokee that is “trail-rated”, which signifies its readiness for off-road driving. While it cannot be compared with the off-road capability of a Jeep Wrangler, this vehicle still upholds the off-road heritage and tradition of the Jeep.
The Trailhawk also comes with a much-improved tire where many people do not understand its importance and the difference it can make. For on-road use, it means a quieter ride and improved fuel economy. But in off-road driving, it means a little extra traction on the vehicle.
Comparing Jeep Cherokee Limited and Trailhawk
The Jeep Cherokee Limited and Trailhawk share so many similarities, but there are also features that make them different from one another. We have compiled some of them in the list below:
Price Range
It is said that the Jeep Cherokee Limited is more expensive when it comes to its retail price. According to Carbuzz, a popular website and mobile app for car enthusiasts, the starting MSRP for a Jeep Cherokee Unlimited is $38,745, while the Trailhawk is $37,045. If you try to analyze, there is not much difference in the pricing, but the Limited is more expensive.
Dimensions and Measurements
| Dimensions | Limited | Trailhawk |
| Length | 182 in | 182 in |
| Maximum Width | 73.2 in | 74.9 in |
| Front Width | 62.7 in | 63.6 in |
| Rear Width | 63.1 in | 63.5 in |
| Wheelbase | 106.6 in | 107.1 in |
| Ground Clearance | N/A | 8.7 in |
As you can see in the dimensions of both vehicles, there is not much difference in the overall size of both the Limited and the Trailhawk. In fact, these two vehicles share the same length. The other dimensions in the width category do not give a lot of difference.
It is only in the ground clearance where you can see the difference, which is understandable because the Trailhawk can be used for off-road driving.
On-Road Experience
The Jeep Cherokee Limited is friendlier on the road compared to its Trailhawk counterpart. It provides a smoother ride and feels quieter compared to the Trailhawk. Also, accelerating into the traffic makes the Limited just right using its engine. On the other hand, the Trailhawk feels underpowered.
The fuel mileage of the Limited is also higher compared to the Trailhawk when used on the highway. The Jeep Cherokee Limited provides greater mileage compared to its Trailhawk counterpart.
Off-Road Experienced
As earlier mentioned, the Trailhawk is the only “Trail Rated” vehicle among all the Cherokee, which makes it perfect for off-road driving. When it comes to navigating in rough terrain, the Trailhawk can be easily controlled and managed.
The Trailhawk also comes with larger tires, making climbing boulders easier than the Limited. The Trailhawk also offers off-road benefits to newbies, such as select speed crawl control and hill descent control.
Interior Capacity
The Jeep Cherokee Limited and Trailhawk almost share similar interiors. But, one thing that I notice with the Limited is the feeling of being more open and airy using a panoramic sunroof. In terms of space, five passengers will fit, but anything lesser will feel more comfortable.
These two vehicles also shared similarly heated and ventilated seat features. During the colder months, the seat will feel warm. In the summer, you will feel that the seats are cold. This feature will make driving more comfortable.
Conclusion
Comparing Jeep Cherokee Limited vs Trailhawk will not get so much difference because they are under the Cherokee models. However, certain features can help us distinguish the two vehicles, such as their on and off-road capabilities, pricing, and even the size.