Jeep Cherokee 2014 Wiki

Jeep Cherokee 2014 Wiki jeeps.truckstrend.com

An Engaging Introduction: The Rebirth of an Icon

The year 2014 marked a significant turning point for a nameplate synonymous with American adventure: the Jeep Cherokee. After a hiatus spanning more than a decade in North America, the Cherokee returned, reimagined and radically different from its boxy XJ and KJ predecessors. This "Jeep Cherokee 2014 Wiki" serves as a comprehensive guide to the KL generation, a vehicle that bravely charted a new course for the brand, blending traditional Jeep capability with modern crossover refinement, advanced technology, and a polarizing design. It’s an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand this pivotal model, from its innovative engineering to its real-world performance and ownership considerations.

Jeep Cherokee 2014 Wiki

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee, built on the "Compact U.S. Wide" (CUSW) platform shared with models like the Dodge Dart and Chrysler 200, represented Jeep’s bold strategy to expand its global footprint and appeal to a broader audience. While its departure from the rugged, utilitarian aesthetic of old initially drew skepticism, its underlying capability, particularly in the Trailhawk variant, and its comfortable on-road demeanor quickly established its place in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. This wiki aims to meticulously detail every aspect of the 2014 Cherokee, providing invaluable insights for prospective buyers, current owners, and automotive enthusiasts alike.

A New Era: The KL Generation and Its Design Philosophy

The most striking aspect of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee was undoubtedly its design. Eschewing the traditional upright, square-jawed Jeep look, the KL generation adopted a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette with a distinctive "waterfall" grille and split-headlight design. The slender LED daytime running lights sat high, while the main projector-beam headlights were nestled lower in the bumper, a controversial yet ultimately influential design choice that paved the way for similar aesthetics across the industry.

Beneath the polarizing exterior, the KL Cherokee brought significant engineering advancements. Its unibody construction, coupled with an independent suspension system (MacPherson struts upfront, multi-link in the rear), promised a more refined and car-like driving experience than previous Cherokees. This was a deliberate move to compete with popular crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, while still retaining Jeep’s core off-road DNA through various available 4×4 systems.

Trims and Configurations: Tailoring Your Adventure

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee was offered in four primary trim levels, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences, from urban commuting to serious off-road excursions.

• Sport: The entry-level model, offering essential features and a more budget-friendly price point. It came standard with a 2.4L engine, Uconnect 5.0, and a choice of FWD or Jeep Active Drive I 4×4.



• Latitude: Building on the Sport, the Latitude added more comfort and convenience features, including upgraded cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lamps, and roof rails. It remained a popular choice for its balance of features and value.
• Limited: The premium trim, featuring leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, larger wheels, and the advanced Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen. It offered a luxurious driving experience with a comprehensive suite of features.
• Trailhawk: The pinnacle of off-road capability in the lineup. The Trailhawk boasted a more aggressive exterior design, unique fascias for improved approach/departure angles, off-road suspension, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and the advanced Jeep Active Drive Lock 4×4 system with a locking rear differential and Selec-Speed Control. It proudly wore the "Trail Rated" badge, signifying its proven performance in challenging conditions.

All trims, except for the standard FWD Sport, could be equipped with one of Jeep’s innovative 4×4 systems:

• Jeep Active Drive I: A fully automatic, single-speed power transfer unit (PTU) that engages 4×4 as needed.
• Jeep Active Drive II: Adds a two-speed PTU with low-range gearing for improved crawling capability and hill ascent/descent control.
• Jeep Active Drive Lock: Exclusively on the Trailhawk, this system builds on Active Drive II by adding a mechanical rear differential lock for maximum traction in extreme off-road situations.

All 4×4 models also featured the Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, allowing the driver to select modes like Auto, Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud, and (on Trailhawk) Rock, optimizing the vehicle’s powertrain, braking, and suspension for various conditions.

Engine and Performance: Powering the Journey

The 2014 Cherokee offered two robust engine options, both paired exclusively with a new, controversial ZF 9-speed automatic transmission:

• 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir I4: Standard on all trims, this engine produced 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. It was designed for fuel efficiency and adequate performance for daily driving, with EPA estimated fuel economy up to 22 city/31 highway MPG (FWD).
• 3.2L Pentastar V6: An optional upgrade, this engine delivered a more potent 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. Derived from the popular 3.6L Pentastar, it offered significantly improved acceleration and towing capacity (up to 4,500 lbs when properly equipped), with EPA estimated fuel economy up to 19 city/28 highway MPG (FWD).

The 9-speed automatic transmission was a key talking point. While designed to improve fuel economy and provide smooth shifts, early models experienced software calibration issues that led to harsh or delayed shifts, particularly in lower gears. These issues were largely addressed with subsequent software updates.

Interior and Technology: Modern Comfort and Connectivity

The interior of the 2014 Cherokee was a significant leap forward in terms of design, material quality, and technology compared to its predecessors. Soft-touch materials were widely used, and the layout was intuitive and driver-centric.

A highlight was the Uconnect infotainment system, available with a 5.0-inch or an 8.4-inch touchscreen. The 8.4-inch system, in particular, was praised for its large, clear display, user-friendly interface, and quick response times. It offered features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation (optional), satellite radio, and voice command.

Safety was also a priority, with available advanced features including:

• Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation
• LaneSense Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Path Detection
• ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control

Cargo space was competitive for the segment, offering 24.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 54.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.

Driving Dynamics and Off-Road Capability: Balanced Performance

On-road, the 2014 Cherokee delivered a comfortable and composed ride. The independent suspension soaked up bumps effectively, and the electric power steering offered good feedback. While not a sports car, it handled predictably, making it a pleasant daily driver.

Off-road, the Cherokee’s capabilities varied significantly by trim. While Sport and Latitude models with Active Drive I were competent for light trails and snowy conditions, the Trailhawk truly shone. Its increased ground clearance (8.7 inches vs. 7.9 for others), unique suspension tuning, skid plates, and Active Drive Lock system allowed it to tackle challenging terrain that most crossovers wouldn’t dare approach. The Selec-Terrain system further enhanced its versatility, making it a genuinely capable off-roader within its class.

Common Issues and Considerations (Challenges/Solutions)

As with any first-year model, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee had its share of initial challenges:

• 9-Speed Transmission Issues: The most widely reported concern. Early models suffered from clunky shifts, hesitation, and occasional rough engagement. Solution: Numerous software updates were released by Jeep/Chrysler. Ensure any pre-owned 2014 model has had all applicable software updates applied. In some severe cases, transmission replacement was necessary under warranty.
• Uconnect System Glitches: Occasional freezing or slow response. Solution: Software updates are often available for the Uconnect system.
• Minor Recalls: Like many new vehicles, the 2014 Cherokee had a few recalls related to wiring, power steering, and air conditioning lines. Solution: Check the NHTSA website (NHTSA.gov) for open recalls by VIN and ensure all recall work has been performed.
• Oil Consumption (2.4L Tigershark): Some 2.4L engines experienced higher than normal oil consumption. Solution: Regular oil level checks are recommended. A technical service bulletin (TSB) or warranty repair might be available for affected vehicles.

Buying Guide: What to Look For (Practical Advice)

When considering a used 2014 Jeep Cherokee, keep the following in mind:

• Transmission History: Ask for service records detailing any transmission-related software updates or repairs. A test drive is crucial to assess shift quality.
• Recall Completion: Verify that all factory recalls have been addressed.
• Maintenance Records: Look for evidence of regular oil changes, fluid checks, and general maintenance.
• Trim Level Suitability: Be honest about your needs. If serious off-roading isn’t a priority, a Latitude or Limited might offer a better balance of comfort and features for less money than a Trailhawk.
• Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): Always have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough PPI, especially checking for fluid leaks, suspension component wear, and electrical issues.
• Rust: Inspect the undercarriage and body panels for any signs of rust, particularly in regions that use road salt.

Original MSRP Table: 2014 Jeep Cherokee

The following table provides the approximate original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2014 Jeep Cherokee trims at launch. Actual prices would vary based on options, packages, destination charges, and dealer markups.

Trim Level	Drivetrain	Engine	Approximate Original MSRP (USD)
Sport	FWD	2.4L I4	$22,995
Sport	4×4	2.4L I4	$24,995
Latitude	FWD	2.4L I4	$24,495
Latitude	4×4	2.4L I4	$26,495
Limited	FWD	2.4L I4	$27,995
Limited	4×4	2.4L I4	$29,995
Trailhawk	4×4	3.2L V6	$29,495

Note: The 3.2L V6 engine was an optional upgrade across most trims (except Trailhawk where it was standard) and added approximately $1,495 to the MSRP.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the 2014 Jeep Cherokee

Q1: Is the 2014 Jeep Cherokee reliable?
A1: While initial models had well-documented transmission software issues, many of these were resolved with updates. When properly maintained and with updates applied, they can be reasonably reliable. However, the 9-speed transmission can be a long-term concern for some owners.

Q2: What is the real-world fuel economy like?
A2: The 2.4L engine generally delivers decent fuel economy, often close to its EPA estimates (mid-20s combined MPG). The 3.2L V6 is more powerful but will consume more fuel, typically in the low-20s combined MPG. Off-road driving or heavy towing will significantly reduce efficiency.

Q3: Can the 2014 Cherokee really go off-road?
A3: Absolutely, especially the Trailhawk trim. With its advanced 4×4 system, low-range gearing, locking rear differential, and increased ground clearance, the Trailhawk is genuinely capable on moderate to challenging trails, earning its "Trail Rated" badge. Other 4×4 trims are suitable for light trails, snow, and gravel roads.

Q4: What’s the difference between Active Drive I, II, and Lock?
A4: Active Drive I is a basic automatic 4×4 system. Active Drive II adds a low-range gear for more torque and control. Active Drive Lock (Trailhawk only) builds on Active Drive II by adding a mechanical rear differential lock for maximum traction in extreme conditions.

Q5: Are parts expensive or hard to find for the 2014 Cherokee?
A5: No, parts are generally readily available and reasonably priced, as it shares many components with other Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge vehicles. Aftermarket support is also good.

Q6: What should I look for during a test drive?
A6: Pay close attention to the transmission’s shifting behavior – look for smooth, consistent shifts without harshness, delays, or excessive hunting for gears. Check all electrical components, listen for unusual noises from the engine or suspension, and ensure the Uconnect system is responsive.

Concluding Summary: A Trailblazer Reborn

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee represented a bold, decisive step for the Jeep brand. It successfully navigated the challenging waters of reinventing an iconic nameplate, blending the rugged capability expected of a Jeep with the comfort, technology, and efficiency demanded by the modern crossover market. While its unconventional styling and early transmission quirks presented initial hurdles, the KL Cherokee proved its worth, particularly the highly capable Trailhawk variant.

For those seeking a versatile mid-size SUV that can comfortably handle daily commutes while also possessing genuine off-road prowess, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee remains a compelling option. Understanding its nuances, potential challenges, and key features, as detailed in this "Jeep Cherokee 2014 Wiki," empowers buyers to make informed decisions and appreciate the engineering and vision behind this unique and influential vehicle. It’s more than just a car; it’s a testament to Jeep’s enduring spirit of adventure, adapted for a new generation.