Jeep Cherokee KL Review: Features, Reliability, and Maintenance Tips

The Jeep Cherokee KL has made waves in the compact SUV world, blending rugged off-road readiness with everyday comfort. But what exactly makes the KL generation of the Jeep Cherokee stand out, and what should you know before buying, owning, or maintaining one?

Whether you’re a current owner, a prospective buyer, or just curious about this popular SUV, this post will break down everything—from its performance and interior design to common problems and service tips. Let’s dig into this reliable off-roader turned daily driver.

What Is the Jeep Cherokee KL?

The Jeep Cherokee KL refers to the fifth-generation Cherokee, introduced in 2014 and produced through 2023. It marked a major departure from the boxy XJ and rugged KK generations, instead embracing a sleeker, more crossover-inspired look with enhanced road manners.

Built on a Fiat-derived platform (shared with the Alfa Romeo Giulietta and Dodge Dart), the KL offered a front-wheel-drive base layout with available Active Drive I and II 4WD systems. It also introduced refined features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a large infotainment touchscreen—signaling Jeep’s shift toward tech-savvy daily drivers.

Jeep Cherokee KL Key Specs Overview

Model Year Range	2014–2023
Platform	Fiat Compact US Wide (CUSW)
Engines	2.4L Tigershark I4, 3.2L Pentastar V6, 2.0L Turbo I4 (late)
Transmission	9-speed automatic (ZF 9HP)
Drivetrain	FWD / AWD (Active Drive I, II, Lock)
Fuel Economy	~20–31 MPG (varies by trim and engine)
Towing Capacity	Up to 4,500 lbs (with 3.2L and Tow Group)
Trim Levels	Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, High Altitude

The KL was aimed at drivers who wanted a taste of Jeep’s adventurous spirit—without committing to a full-on Wrangler. But while it introduced comfort and modernity, it didn’t skip out on capability.

Jeep Cherokee KL Interior and Comfort

Cabin Quality and Design

Inside the Cherokee KL, you’ll find a surprising mix of soft-touch materials, well-organized controls, and tech-forward features like:

Uconnect infotainment systems (5″, 8.4″, or 8.4″ NAV depending on year)
Heated and ventilated seats
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (added in later model years)
Digital instrument cluster

While base trims like the Latitude kept things simple, higher trims like the Limited and Overland rivaled luxury crossovers in terms of comfort.

Seating & Cargo

Seating is comfortable for five, with decent legroom in both rows. The rear seats slide and recline, and the cargo area offers up to 54.9 cubic feet with seats folded. It’s practical enough for families but compact enough for city driving.

On-Road Driving Performance

The Cherokee KL doesn’t drive like a traditional truck-based Jeep. With an independent suspension and unibody construction, it handles more like a crossover—smooth, quiet, and composed. The ride is comfortable, especially with smaller wheels (17″-18″), and road noise is minimal on most trims.

Available Engines:

2.4L Tigershark I4: Reliable but underpowered at times, especially when loaded.
3.2L Pentastar V6: The sweet spot for power and towing—strong, smooth, and refined.
2.0L Turbo I4 (late models): More torque and fuel-efficient, but not as common.

The 9-speed automatic, especially in earlier model years, was known for hesitation and rough shifts—but many improvements were made in later software updates.

Off-Road Capabilities: More Than Just a Pretty SUV

While the Cherokee KL leans more road-friendly than rugged, it doesn’t abandon Jeep’s off-road DNA. The standout here is the Trailhawk trim, built specifically for trail use and carrying Jeep’s Trail Rated badge.

What Makes the Trailhawk Special?

Standard 4WD (Active Drive Lock) with locking rear differential
Selec-Terrain® System with Rock mode
Skid plates, tow hooks, and off-road suspension
Increased ground clearance and unique bumpers for better approach/departure angles

If you plan on hitting trails, the Trailhawk is the most capable Cherokee KL option—and it’s surprisingly good off-road, handling mud, snow, and even light rock crawling.

Jeep Cherokee KL Reliability: What to Expect

Now, let’s talk about the real-world side of ownership: reliability.

Common Jeep Cherokee KL Problems

Issue	Description
9-Speed Transmission	Jerky shifting, hesitation, and rough downshifts—especially in 2014–2016 models
Electronic Parking Brake Failure	Malfunctions can cause the brake to engage unexpectedly
Engine Stalling (2.4L)	Often caused by faulty sensors, wiring, or PCM updates
Water Leaks	Seals around the sunroof and tailgate were common failure points
Uconnect Glitches	Screen freezing or rebooting randomly (especially in earlier versions)

Jeep made several TSBs (technical service bulletins) and software updates over the years. If you’re buying used, check the VIN history for updates and recalls. Models from 2018 onward tend to be more refined.

Maintenance Schedule for Jeep Cherokee KL

To keep your KL running smoothly, following a regular maintenance schedule is key. Here’s a basic guideline:

Jeep Cherokee KL Maintenance Chart

Mileage	Service
Every 7,500 miles	Oil change, tire rotation, check brakes and fluid levels
Every 15,000 miles	Replace cabin air filter, inspect suspension and CV joints
Every 30,000 miles	Replace engine air filter, transmission fluid (if towing), inspect cooling system
Every 60,000 miles	Spark plugs (2.4L only), transfer case fluid, brake fluid replacement
Every 100,000 miles	Coolant flush, full inspection of powertrain components

Pro Tip:

Always use Mopar or OEM-approved fluids and parts, especially when servicing the transmission or 4WD system. And if your KL has the 2.0L turbo, follow the synthetic oil requirements strictly to avoid turbo issues.

How to Reset Jeep Cherokee KL Maintenance Reminder

If you’ve done your oil change or tire rotation and the dashboard reminder is still on, here’s how to reset it:

Oil Life Reset Method (Manual Cluster):

Turn ignition to the “On” position (don’t start the engine).
Use the arrows on the steering wheel to scroll to “Vehicle Info.”
Select “Oil Life.”
Press and hold the OK button until the oil life resets to 100%.
Turn the ignition off and start the vehicle to confirm reset.

This works for most KL models with digital dash clusters. For touchscreen-equipped trims, the reset might be available in the Uconnect settings menu under “Vehicle Info.”

Should You Buy a Jeep Cherokee KL?

If you’re shopping for a compact SUV that’s both city-friendly and trail-ready, the Cherokee KL deserves a spot on your shortlist. It offers a solid mix of modern comfort, off-road grit, and real towing strength—not to mention its classic Jeep style.

Who It’s Best For:

Drivers who want light off-roading with daily usability
Families who need versatile cargo space
Commuters who want a comfortable ride and updated tech
Outdoor lovers interested in camping, towing, or trail access

Who Might Skip It:

If you want top-tier reliability, rivals like the RAV4 or CR-V are more consistent
If you need huge cargo space, the Cherokee falls a bit short vs. midsize SUVs
If you dislike quirky transmission behavior, test drive before buying

Used models from 2018 to 2021 (especially the Trailhawk and Limited trims) offer great value for money—many come loaded with features and have had their earlier bugs ironed out.

Tips for Buying a Used Cherokee KL

Here are a few quick recommendations before pulling the trigger:

Check recall history using the VIN on the NHTSA website
Look for a Cherokee with updated transmission software or confirmed fixes
Avoid early production year models (2014–2015) unless records show thorough maintenance
Prefer models with the 3.2L Pentastar V6 for performance and durability
Get a pre-purchase inspection if buying privately

Bonus tip: If you’re serious about off-roading, stick with a Trailhawk. The extra features aren’t just for show—they make a real difference on rugged terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Jeep Cherokee KL good on gas?

It’s decent, not amazing. Expect 20–22 MPG city and 28–31 MPG highway, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

Is the 9-speed transmission really that bad?

It had growing pains, especially from 2014–2016. Later software updates improved it a lot. Test drive before buying.

What’s the best engine for the Cherokee KL?

The 3.2L V6 is the best all-around choice—strong, smooth, and proven. The 2.4L is underpowered, and the 2.0L turbo has more power but is less common.

How often should I service my Jeep Cherokee KL?

Stick to every 7,500 miles for basic service (oil, rotation), with deeper checks every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

Final Thoughts: Is the Jeep Cherokee KL Worth It?

The Jeep Cherokee KL isn’t perfect—but it hits a sweet spot for many drivers. It gives you the confidence of a Jeep, the comfort of a crossover, and just enough tech and towing capacity to feel like you’re getting your money’s worth.

Sure, it had a rocky start. But with regular maintenance and smart buying choices (especially post-2017 models), it can be a dependable, versatile SUV for your garage.

Explore More Jeep Resources

Looking for more tips, maintenance guides, or Jeep model comparisons? Check out our other posts:

Got questions about your Cherokee KL? Drop them in the comments or email us—we’d love to help you get the most out of your Jeep life.