What To Know
- But with two trim levels designed for adventure, the Upland and Trailhawk, choosing the perfect Cherokee for your needs can be a challenge.
- Both the Upland and Trailhawk offer a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features.
- If you’re looking for a capable SUV with a comfortable interior and advanced technology, the Upland is a great choice.
When it comes to off-road capability, few vehicles can match the legendary Jeep Cherokee. But with two trim levels designed for adventure, the Upland and Trailhawk, choosing the perfect Cherokee for your needs can be a challenge. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Jeep Cherokee Upland vs. Trailhawk, helping you make an informed decision that will conquer any terrain.
Exterior Design
The Upland and Trailhawk models share the same rugged exterior design that defines the Jeep Cherokee. However, the Trailhawk adds distinctive exterior accents that enhance its off-road prowess. These include:
- Red tow hooks
- Trailhawk hood decal
- Gloss black roof rails
- 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires
Interior Features
Inside, both trims offer a spacious and comfortable cabin. The Upland features premium cloth seats, while the Trailhawk upgrades to leather-trimmed seats with Trailhawk embroidery. Both models come standard with:
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
Powertrain Options
Under the hood, the Upland and Trailhawk share the same 3.2-liter V6 engine, producing 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. However, the Trailhawk offers an additional powertrain option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Off-Road Capabilities
The key difference between the Upland and Trailhawk lies in their off-road capabilities. The Trailhawk comes equipped with a host of upgrades that enhance its performance on rugged terrain, including:
- Active Drive II 4×4 system with low-range gearing
- Selec-Terrain traction management system
- Hill descent control
- Skid plates
- Rock rails
Technology and Safety
Both the Upland and Trailhawk offer a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. These include:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward collision warning
- Lane departure warning
Which Trim Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Jeep Cherokee Upland vs. Trailhawk depends on your individual needs and off-road ambitions. If you’re looking for a capable SUV with a comfortable interior and advanced technology, the Upland is a great choice. However, if you demand the ultimate off-road performance, the Trailhawk is the clear winner.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which trim level has better gas mileage?
A: The Upland has slightly better gas mileage than the Trailhawk, due to its smaller engine and lighter weight.
Q: Is the Trailhawk’s turbocharged engine more powerful?
A: Yes, the Trailhawk’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces more horsepower and torque than the Upland’s 3.2-liter V6 engine.
Q: Which trim level has more off-road features?
A: The Trailhawk has more off-road features than the Upland, including a more advanced 4×4 system, traction management system, and skid plates.
Q: Is the Trailhawk more expensive than the Upland?
A: Yes, the Trailhawk is typically more expensive than the Upland due to its additional off-road features and upgrades.
Q: Which trim level is better for towing?
A: Both the Upland and Trailhawk have the same towing capacity of 4,500 pounds.