The 2021 Jeep Cherokee is an excellent SUV option. It is a Jeep, after all. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider when shopping for the best SUV. Check out three reasons to avoid the Jeep Cherokee for other options. 

Three reasons to avoid the 2021 Jeep Cherokee

First of all, we will cover what’s new for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. According to Kelley Blue Book, it got a new mid-range Latitude Lux trim. You can also check out the new 8oth Anniversary Edition trim, which includes 19-inch wheels with a granite finish, an 80th Anniversary commemorative badge, a dual-pane sunroof, premium leather seats, and more. 

Also, the luxury Overland trim was discontinued, and more standard features are available across the entire lineup. The standard features include blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and rain-sensing wipers. Now, let’s look at the potential drawbacks.

1. The Jeep Cherokee is expensive

You can get started in a 2021 Cherokee for about $26,510. This starting price is a little high for the economical version of the Cherokee. The more luxurious Grand Jeep Cherokee begins around $32,545. 

The new Latitude Lux trim, which is supposed to be a middle option, begins at about $31,620, so why not go for the Grand Cherokee at this point? Plus, the fully loaded Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk trim ups the price to about $37,000. Also, the destination fee adds about $1,400 to the price. 

The Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Santa Fe start at lower prices. The Forester also includes standard all-wheel drive and tons of driver features. It isn’t exactly clear what you’re paying more for with the Cherokee. 

2. The Cherokee is a little lackluster 

The standard engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder option with 180 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque. This provides adequate power. You can use this engine to go, but it may not go anywhere particularly fast and could struggle while passing people on the highway. 

You can upgrade to the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine for 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Also, the 3.2-liter V6 engine pumps out 271 hp and 239 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, the Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 lb. This is impressive for its class. 

Edmunds suggests going with the turbo engine but noted that the acceleration shifts feel a bit laggy. The Jeep Cherokee feels heavy and doesn’t exactly provide a sporty ride. However, it has nimble handling and smooth performance. Also, it’s extremely off-road capable. 

3. The 2021 Cherokee is small 

One major drawback for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee includes its lack of cargo space. It only has 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, with up to 54.7 cubic feet total. This is pretty far behind rivals. 

The Honda CR-V has the most space, with 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and up to 75.8 cubic feet total. But on a positive note, the seats are large and spacious. Passengers in the rear will have ample leg and headroom. 

The cargo floor can be adjusted to make loading items easier, and the child safety seat anchors are easy to find and access. Plus, the interior has a quality design with premium materials to provide comfort.