Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Cherokee |
| Generation | Cherokee V (KL, facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 V6 (271 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | January, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 271 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 324 Nm @ 4400 rpm (238.97 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EHB |
| Engine displacement | 3240 cm3 (197.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.9 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.1 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1835-1863 kg (4045.48 – 4107.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 632-660 kg (1393.32 – 1455.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 448 l (15.82 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1555 l (54.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2041 kg (4499.63 lbs.) |
| Length | 4623 mm (182.01 in.) |
| Width | 1859-1902 mm (73.19 – 74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1681-1722 mm (66.18 – 67.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2708-2720 mm (106.61 – 107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1593-1615 mm (62.72 – 63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1593-1613 mm (62.72 – 63.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5-11.6 m (37.73 – 38.06 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18.9-29.9° |
| Departure angle | 25.0-32.2° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17; 245/65 R17; 225/60 R18; 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7.5J x 17; 7J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
The 2018-2023 Jeep Cherokee with the 3.2-liter V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission represented a sweet spot in the Cherokee lineup. Positioned above the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and the base 2.4-liter engine, it offered a significant power upgrade without the price premium of the Trailhawk or Limited trims. Built on the unibody 1HX0/A3 platform, this facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and refinements to the powertrain. This configuration was primarily aimed at the North American market, where larger engines and all-wheel drive are highly valued for their versatility and capability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Cherokee variant is the Chrysler Pentastar 3.2-liter V6 engine, designated as the EHB code. This engine is a 60-degree V-engine featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine’s design emphasizes a balance of power and efficiency, with a compression ratio of 10.7:1. The 9-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, is a key component of this powertrain. It provides a wide range of gear ratios, optimizing both fuel economy and acceleration. The transmission features a sophisticated control system that adapts to driving conditions and driver input. The combination of the V6 and 9-speed automatic allows for smooth and responsive shifts, contributing to a refined driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.2L V6/9-speed automatic combination delivers a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the base engine options. With 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque, the Cherokee offers brisk acceleration and confident passing power. The 9-speed transmission, while offering a wide range, can sometimes exhibit slight hesitation during downshifts, a characteristic noted in some reviews. However, in typical driving scenarios, the transmission operates smoothly and efficiently. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions and on uneven terrain. Compared to the manual transmission options (available on lower trims with the 2.4L engine), this V6 automatic prioritizes ease of use and comfort over outright driver engagement. It’s a more relaxed and refined driving experience, geared towards everyday usability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.2L V6 engine was typically offered on the Latitude, Limited, and North editions of the Cherokee. Standard equipment on the Latitude trim included features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. The Limited trim added upgrades such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen, and a power liftgate. Optional extras across the trims included a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Interior upholstery typically consisted of cloth on the Latitude and leather on the Limited and North trims. Dashboard configurations were consistent across trims, with a focus on user-friendly controls and a modern aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The Cherokee’s chassis features an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning is geared towards a balance of comfort and control, making it suitable for both on-road and light off-road driving. The weight distribution is relatively balanced, contributing to predictable handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the 3.2L V6 engine for its smooth power delivery and refinement. The 9-speed automatic transmission received mixed reviews, with some noting occasional hesitation. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment, falling in line with other V6-powered SUVs. Compared to the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, the V6 offered more readily available power, but at the expense of slightly lower fuel efficiency. The V6 was also seen as a more reliable option than the 2.0L, which experienced some early issues. Against competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Cherokee V6 offered a more powerful engine and a more rugged aesthetic, but often lagged behind in terms of fuel economy and overall refinement.
Legacy
The 3.2L V6 engine in the Cherokee has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not without its minor issues (such as occasional oil consumption), it generally holds up well over time with proper maintenance. In the used car market, this variant remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and comfortable mid-size SUV. Its combination of power, features, and affordability makes it a compelling option. The 9-speed transmission, while sometimes criticized, has also proven to be durable with regular fluid changes. Overall, the 2018-2023 Jeep Cherokee 3.2L V6 4WD Automatic represents a well-rounded and dependable SUV that continues to hold its value in the used car market.
