2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited: A Bold Return to the Compact SUV Arena
2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited: A Bold Return to the Compact SUV Arena jeeps.truckstrend.com
The year 2014 marked a significant moment for Jeep enthusiasts and the automotive industry alike: the return of the iconic Cherokee nameplate. After a hiatus, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee emerged not as a rugged, body-on-frame SUV of old, but as a thoroughly modern, technologically advanced compact crossover built on a car-based platform. Among its trim levels, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited stood out as the premium offering, blending refined aesthetics, an upscale interior, and a surprising blend of on-road comfort with the brand’s legendary off-road capability. This article delves deep into what made the 2014 Cherokee Limited a pivotal vehicle, exploring its design, performance, features, and the overall ownership experience.
Design and Styling: A Bold Reimagining
2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited: A Bold Return to the Compact SUV Arena
The most striking aspect of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee was undoubtedly its design. Breaking away from traditional Jeep aesthetics, the Cherokee debuted with a highly polarizing, futuristic front fascia featuring a distinct split-headlight design with slim LED daytime running lights positioned above the main projector headlights. While controversial, this bold styling aimed to make the Cherokee stand out in a crowded segment and signaled a new design direction for the brand.
The Limited trim specifically amplified this modern approach. It featured body-color fascias, chrome accents around the grille and windows, and standard 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, giving it a more sophisticated and less rugged appearance than its Trailhawk counterpart. The overall silhouette was sleek and aerodynamic, moving away from the boxy shapes of previous Cherokees.
Inside, the 2014 Cherokee Limited presented a significant leap forward in material quality and design. The cabin was a refreshing departure from the utilitarian interiors often associated with SUVs of its class. Soft-touch materials adorned the dashboard and door panels, complemented by tasteful stitching and metallic accents. The focus was on creating a comfortable, premium environment that felt more akin to a European luxury crossover than a traditional American SUV. The Uconnect infotainment system, with its prominent 8.4-inch touchscreen, dominated the center stack, integrating seamlessly into the dashboard’s clean layout.
Powertrain Options: Balancing Efficiency and Power
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited offered buyers a choice of two robust engines, each paired with a new, controversial, but highly efficient 9-speed automatic transmission.
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2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir I4 Engine: Standard on the Limited, this four-cylinder engine produced 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. It was designed with fuel efficiency in mind, offering an EPA-estimated 22 MPG city / 31 MPG highway for 2WD models (21/28 MPG for 4WD). While adequate for daily commuting and light duty, some found its performance to be merely sufficient, especially when fully loaded or attempting quick overtakes.
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3.2-liter Pentastar V6 Engine: Available as an upgrade, this engine was a smaller version of the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. It delivered a more robust 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving acceleration and providing a more confident driving experience. Fuel economy was still respectable at 19 MPG city / 28 MPG highway for 2WD models (19/27 MPG for 4WD). Crucially, the V6 also boosted the Cherokee’s towing capacity to an impressive 4,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it a strong contender for those needing to haul small trailers or boats.
The 9-speed automatic transmission was a point of much discussion upon the Cherokee’s release. Designed to maximize fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its optimal RPM range, it sometimes exhibited hesitant shifts or seemed to search for the right gear, particularly in early production models. However, subsequent software updates largely ironed out these initial quirks, improving its responsiveness and smoothness.
Off-Road Prowess and On-Road Comfort: The Best of Both Worlds?
Despite its car-based platform (derived from Alfa Romeo), the 2014 Cherokee Limited did not abandon Jeep’s heritage. While the Trailhawk trim was the true off-road champion, the Limited still offered impressive capabilities for its class, combined with a focus on refined on-road manners.
Jeep offered three 4×4 systems for the Cherokee:
- Active Drive I: A basic, fully automatic 4×4 system that seamlessly engages four-wheel drive when conditions require it.
- Active Drive II: Available on the Limited, this system added a low-range gear for improved off-road crawling and a neutral mode for flat towing behind an RV. It significantly enhanced the Cherokee’s ability to tackle more challenging terrain.
- Jeep Selec-Terrain System: Standard on 4×4 models, this system allowed drivers to choose from five modes (Auto, Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud, and Rock – the latter exclusive to Trailhawk) that optimized the vehicle’s traction control, throttle, transmission, and drivetrain for various conditions.
On the road, the Cherokee Limited truly shone. Its independent front and rear suspension provided a remarkably smooth and composed ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. The electric power steering offered a good balance of responsiveness and lightness, making the Cherokee easy to maneuver in urban environments and stable on the highway. Road and wind noise were well-suppressed, contributing to a quiet and comfortable cabin, especially on longer journeys. This blend of legitimate (for a crossover) off-road capability and excellent on-road comfort was a key selling point for the 2014 Cherokee Limited.
Interior Features and Technology: A Premium Experience
The Limited trim was designed to offer a premium, technology-rich experience. Standard features were extensive and aimed at maximizing comfort and convenience:
- Uconnect 8.4-inch Touchscreen: This large, intuitive touchscreen was the centerpiece of the infotainment system. It provided control over audio, climate, phone connectivity (Bluetooth), and available navigation. Its user-friendly interface and quick response times were highly praised.
- Leather-Trimmed Seating: Premium leather upholstery was standard, providing a luxurious feel.
- Heated Front Seats and Heated Steering Wheel: Essential for colder climates, these features added significant comfort.
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Allowed driver and passenger to set independent temperature preferences.
- Power-Adjustable Driver and Front Passenger Seats: Enhanced comfort and ease of finding the ideal driving position.
- Nine-Speaker Alpine Premium Audio System: Offered an elevated listening experience.
- Keyless Enter-N-Go: Allowed for passive entry and push-button start.
Optional features available on the Limited trim further enhanced its appeal, including a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, and an array of advanced safety technologies.
Safety Features: Protecting Your Investment
Jeep equipped the 2014 Cherokee Limited with a comprehensive suite of safety features, both standard and optional, to provide peace of mind.
Standard safety features included:
- Ten airbags (front, side, knee, and curtain)
- Antilock brakes (ABS)
- Electronic stability control (ESC) with roll mitigation
- Traction control
- Rearview camera
For those seeking an even higher level of protection, the optional Technology Group offered a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems:
- Forward Collision Warning-Plus: Warned drivers of potential front-end collisions and could initiate braking.
- Lane Departure Warning-Plus: Alerted drivers if they drifted out of their lane without signaling.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Warned drivers of vehicles in their blind spots.
- Rear Cross Path Detection: Assisted when backing out of parking spaces by detecting approaching vehicles.
- Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist: Automated parking maneuvers.
- Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus: Maintained a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee earned good safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), reinforcing its commitment to occupant protection.
Driving Experience and Ownership Considerations
Driving the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited is a pleasant experience. On-road, it feels planted and composed, with a ride quality that often surpasses competitors in its class. The steering is precise enough for confident maneuvering, and the cabin remains remarkably quiet. While it’s not a performance vehicle, the optional V6 engine provides ample power for most situations, making highway merging and passing a breeze.
For potential owners, it’s important to consider a few points:
- Transmission Behavior: While largely improved by software updates, some early 9-speed transmissions might still exhibit minor quirks. A thorough test drive is crucial.
- Uconnect System: Generally excellent, but like any complex electronic system, occasional software glitches can occur. Ensure it’s updated.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key, particularly for the transmission and any 4×4 components.
- Fuel Economy: The 4-cylinder offers decent efficiency, but the V6, while more powerful, will naturally consume more fuel.
- Resale Value: Jeep vehicles tend to hold their value relatively well, and the Cherokee Limited, with its premium features, often commands a good price in the used market.
The 2014 Cherokee Limited appeals to a broad audience: urban dwellers needing a comfortable daily driver, families seeking a versatile and safe vehicle, and adventurers who occasionally venture off the beaten path.
Practical Advice and Actionable Insights
If you’re considering purchasing a used 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited, here are some actionable insights:
- Thorough Test Drive: Pay close attention to the transmission’s shifting behavior at various speeds and loads. Test all 4×4 modes if possible.
- Service Records: Request complete service records to ensure all maintenance, including any transmission software updates or recalls, have been performed.
- Inspect for Off-Road Use: Even the Limited can go off-road. Check the underside for any signs of damage (scratches, dents on skid plates, suspension components).
- Uconnect Functionality: Test all aspects of the Uconnect system, including Bluetooth, navigation (if equipped), and audio controls.
- Check for Recalls: Use the VIN to check for any outstanding recalls that need to be addressed.
- Tire Condition: Ensure the tires are in good condition and are the correct type for the vehicle’s 4×4 system (if applicable, all four tires should be the same type and tread depth).
Conclusion
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited represented a bold and successful reinvention of a legendary nameplate. It masterfully blended the comfort and technology of a modern crossover with a surprising degree of the authentic capability expected from a Jeep. Its distinctive styling, upscale interior, choice of efficient or powerful engines, and a comprehensive suite of features made it a compelling option in the competitive compact SUV segment. For those seeking a well-appointed, versatile, and capable vehicle that stands out from the crowd, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited remains a strong contender in the used car market, offering a unique blend of ruggedness and refinement.
2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited: Estimated Used Price Table
Note: These prices are estimates for the used market as of late 2023/early 2024 and can vary significantly based on mileage, condition, optional features, location, and market demand. Always consult reputable used car valuation tools (e.g., Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds) for the most accurate current pricing.
| Feature/Condition | Estimated Price Range (USD) | Key Factors Influencing Price |
|---|---|---|
| Good Condition | $9,000 – $12,000 | Higher mileage (100k+), minor wear & tear, basic options. |
| Very Good Condition | $12,000 – $15,000 | Moderate mileage (70k-100k), well-maintained, some desirable options. |
| Excellent Condition | $15,000 – $18,500+ | Low mileage (under 70k), meticulously maintained, fully loaded with premium options (V6, Tech Group, Sunroof). |
| Add for V6 Engine | +$500 – +$1,500 | Increased power and towing capacity are desirable. |
| Add for Active Drive II | +$300 – +$800 | Enhanced off-road capability. |
| Add for Technology Group | +$500 – +$1,200 | Advanced safety features are highly sought after. |
| Add for Navigation | +$200 – +$500 | Integrated navigation adds convenience. |
| Deduct for Accidents/Issues | -$1,000 – -$3,000+ | History of accidents, major mechanical issues, or significant cosmetic flaws. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited
Q1: Is the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited reliable?
A1: Generally, the 2014 Cherokee Limited is considered reasonably reliable, especially with proper maintenance. Early models had some known issues, particularly with the 9-speed automatic transmission’s software, which were largely addressed by recalls and software updates. It’s crucial to check if these updates were applied.
Q2: What is the real-world fuel economy of the 2014 Cherokee Limited?
A2: For the 2.4L I4 engine, expect around 20-24 MPG combined for 4WD models and slightly better for 2WD. The 3.2L V6 typically gets 18-22 MPG combined for 4WD. Actual mileage depends heavily on driving style and conditions.
Q3: Can the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited go off-road?
A3: Yes, the 2014 Cherokee Limited, especially when equipped with Active Drive II and the Selec-Terrain system, is surprisingly capable off-road for a compact crossover. While not as extreme as a Wrangler or a Cherokee Trailhawk, it can handle light to moderate trails, snow, mud, and sand with confidence.
Q4: What’s the difference between the Limited and Trailhawk trims?
A4: The Limited is the more luxurious, road-oriented trim with premium interior materials, more chrome accents, and a smoother ride. The Trailhawk is the dedicated off-road trim, featuring a more aggressive appearance, enhanced Active Drive Lock 4×4 system with a locking rear differential, higher ground clearance, off-road suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.
Q5: What are the common problems with the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited?
A5: The most commonly reported issues revolved around the 9-speed automatic transmission’s initial shifting characteristics (addressed by software updates), Uconnect system glitches (also often fixed with software updates), and some minor electrical issues. Always check service history and perform a pre-purchase inspection.
Q6: What is the towing capacity of the 2014 Cherokee Limited?
A6: When equipped with the 3.2L Pentastar V6 engine and the Trailer Tow Group, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited can tow up to 4,500 pounds. With the 2.4L I4 engine, the towing capacity is significantly lower, typically around 2,000 pounds.
Q7: Is Apple CarPlay or Android Auto available in the 2014 Cherokee Limited?
A7: No, the 2014 model year predates the widespread integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Uconnect system of that era offered Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, and available navigation, but not smartphone mirroring. Aftermarket solutions might be available.
