The 2017 Jeep Cherokee still antes up considerable trail-riding talent, but other crossover SUVs do a better job of daily driving. The name is one of the oldest applied to a modern-day SUV, but the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is no Conestoga wagon. It's a thoroughly modern family wagon, recast from its hardcore sport-utility roots into something much broader, more capable in all sorts of conditions.
Pros Family-sized interior (albeit with no third row) Daring exterior Front seat comfort Quick enough with the base engine Strong active-safety set
Cons Exterior styling doesn't feel fully committed-to Numb steering Gas mileage okay but not excellent Transmission woes come and go
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee ranks 13 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Cherokee combines an upscale and spacious cabin with good off-road capability. Although you can find a smoother ride and larger cabin in competitors like the Honda CR-V or Ford Escape, the Cherokee’s off-road capability means it strikes a pretty rare balance in this class.
Pros Premium-quality cabin Spacious and comfortable seating Great off-road capability with 4WD option
Cons Sluggish base engine Below-average fuel economy Small cargo space
The 2017 Cherokee gets only minor equipment revisions, including standard xenon headlights on every trim but the base Sport. This is also the first full year for the top-of-the-line Overland trim that was introduced in mid-2016.
Pros Available V6 engine provides smooth and assertive power Absorbent suspension smooths out rough surfaces Capable and user-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers unique off-road capability for a small crossover.
Cons Sluggish acceleration with four-cylinder engine Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers.
For 2017, every RX 450h comes standard with forward collision warning and mitigation, lane keeping assistance, automatic high beams and adaptive cruise control. You can also now get a front-wheel-drive F Sport model.
Pros Impeccably crafted and attractively designed cabin Excellent fuel economy for a luxury crossover Supremely quiet Appealing ride and handling balance with F Sport
Cons Gas savings unlikely to ever pay back the price premium Below-average cargo capacity Optional tech interface is distracting to use Relatively slow acceleration
The 2017 Lexus RX Hybrid ranks 4 out of 22 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Lexus RX 450h is a midsize SUV that delivers the luxury you expect from Lexus while also providing solid performance and excellent fuel economy. However, its small cargo area detracts from its utility.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Comfortable, spacious seats
Cons Frustrating upgraded infotainment system Small cargo space
