The Jeep Cherokee V (KL) 2.2 MultiJet TD 4WD Automatic, produced from 2015 to 2017, represents a significant entry in the mid-size SUV segment for the American automaker. This variant, powered by a 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 185 horsepower, was primarily aimed at the European market, where diesel engines held a substantial share of the SUV landscape. It occupied a middle ground within the Cherokee V lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, torque for towing, and all-weather capability through its four-wheel-drive system. The KL Cherokee marked a departure from the previous generation’s body-on-frame construction, adopting a unibody platform for improved on-road refinement and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Cherokee |
| Generation | Cherokee V (KL) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 MultiJet TD (185 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 225.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 185 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 2500 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EBU |
| Engine displacement | 2184 cm3 (133.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83.8 mm (3.3 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1953 kg (4305.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 542 kg (1194.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 412 l (14.55 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1267 l (44.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 68 kg (149.91 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 125 kg (275.58 lbs.) |
| Length | 4624 mm (182.05 in.) |
| Width | 1859 mm (73.19 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2089 mm (82.24 in.) |
| Height | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 157 mm (6.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18.2° |
| Departure angle | 24.0° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.4° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Jeep Cherokee V (KL) 2.2 MultiJet TD 4WD Automatic, produced between 2015 and 2017, was a key variant within the fifth generation of the Cherokee. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with other FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) products, the KL Cherokee represented a move away from the rugged, body-on-frame designs of its predecessors towards a more comfortable and fuel-efficient crossover SUV. This 2.2-liter diesel-powered, automatic transmission model was specifically tailored for European markets, where diesel engines were favored for their fuel economy and torque. It aimed to provide a practical and capable SUV experience for families and individuals seeking a blend of on-road comfort and off-road ability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Cherokee 2.2 MultiJet TD lies the EBU engine code, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion and reduced emissions. The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, enhancing power output and efficiency. The valvetrain employs a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) configuration with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall performance. Paired with this engine is a sophisticated 9-speed automatic transmission, designed to maximize fuel efficiency and provide smooth gear changes. This transmission offered a wide range of gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate within its optimal power band more frequently.
Driving Characteristics
The 185 horsepower and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.2 MultiJet TD engine, combined with the 9-speed automatic, resulted in a driving experience focused on usability and efficiency rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 8.8 seconds. While not particularly quick, the engine provided ample torque for everyday driving situations, including overtaking and climbing hills. The automatic transmission, while offering smooth shifts, could sometimes feel hesitant or ‘hunt’ for the right gear, particularly during quick acceleration. Compared to the higher-output gasoline engines available in the Cherokee lineup, the diesel variant prioritized fuel economy and low-end torque over peak horsepower. The 9-speed transmission’s wide gear ratios helped to keep the engine in its sweet spot, improving fuel efficiency, but also meant that the engine could sometimes feel strained when pushed hard.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 MultiJet TD Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades available. Higher trim levels added features such as a premium sound system, navigation, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The specific trim level (e.g., Limited, Trailhawk) dictated the level of standard equipment and available options.
Chassis & Braking
The Cherokee V (KL) utilized a fully independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The four-wheel-drive system, typically employing a rear axle disconnect, allowed the vehicle to operate in front-wheel drive mode under normal conditions to improve fuel economy, automatically engaging the rear axle when traction was needed. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system was equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution for enhanced safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jeep Cherokee V (KL) 2.2 MultiJet TD 4WD Automatic was generally well-received in European markets, praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and capable four-wheel-drive system. Critics noted that the diesel engine provided ample torque for everyday driving, making it a practical choice for those who frequently tow or drive in challenging conditions. However, some reviewers found the 9-speed automatic transmission to be occasionally unresponsive. Compared to the gasoline-powered Cherokee variants, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of outright performance. The 2.2 MultiJet TD was positioned as a more economical and practical alternative to the more powerful, but less fuel-efficient, gasoline engines.
Legacy
The 2.2 MultiJet TD engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. Common issues included diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly in vehicles used primarily for short trips, and occasional problems with the 9-speed automatic transmission. In the used car market, the Cherokee 2.2 MultiJet TD 4WD Automatic remains a popular choice for those seeking a capable and fuel-efficient SUV. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and off-road ability continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel engines and automatic transmissions, and ensure that the vehicle has been properly serviced throughout its life.
