The 2016 Jeep Cherokee is an SUV with a price range of $13,748 to $25,687. It’s a good SUV for the money with more features than its competitors, but maintenance costs are above average.
2016 Jeep Cherokee: Quick Overview
- New features for 2016 include an updated infotainment system that improves on technology originally released in 2014.
- Reliability ratings are average according to J.D. Power. The 2016 model has significantly fewer complaints than 2015.
- Two engines are available. The four-cylinder is fuel-efficient but feels underpowered. The V6 has a higher-than-average towing capacity.
- Fuel economy is good for an SUV. The Cherokee ranks 3rd in its class, getting a combined rating of up to 25 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are average, earning a four-star rating in government crash tests.
- The 2016 Cherokee ranks near the middle of its class based on owner reviews. It’s a good overall value with a comfortable ride and nice interior, but loses out with more mechanical problems than some competitors. Check out the Kelley Blue Book video review as well.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2016 Jeep Cherokee have?
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee has fewer problems than the 2014 and 2015 models, but still has some mechanical issues. The 2016 Cherokee problems cover bad brakes, defective cruise control, axel failure, and even potential fires.
Transmission problems, including irregular and difficult shifting, are the most common issues reported. The most common source of the problem is software issues, a bad wiring harness, or a failed transmission.
Engines stalling and dying while driving are also mentioned by owners. In some cases, it’s caused by low oil pressure, and there’s a technical service bulletin to update the software to prevent the problem. Some owners have also required engine replacements, but it’s very rare.
Trouble starting is another problem found in the Cherokee and is frequently caused by computer issues or a failed alternator.
There are seven recalls affecting the 2016 Jeep Cherokee, which is more than average for an SUV its age. Recalls include the liftgate, front half shaft, torque on seat fasteners, fire extinguisher, cruise control, and power transfer unit. Most serious are the front half shafts, if one breaks it increases the risk of an accident.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee trims range from overpriced Sport to underpriced Limited. The 2016 Cherokee is more affordable than other midsize SUVs on the market, with a price range of $13,748 to $25,687 depending on the model and mileage. When new, it had a retail price of $23,495 to $38,395. It depreciates faster than average, losing 56% of its value in the first five years.
- Sport is the entry-level model with 17-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, a five-inch infotainment screen with Bluetooth, and projector headlights.
- Latitude is above that in the lineup, upgrades include 17-inch aluminum wheels, an 8.4-inch Uconnect system with a backup camera, and upgraded cloth seating.
- Altitude is next with 18-inch black aluminum wheels and additional black trim on the exterior.
- Limited is the luxury model with leather seating, 18-inch polished wheels, and automatic climate control.
- Trailhawk is focused on off-road performance with 17-inch wheels, a lifted off-road suspension, skid plates, crawl control, and tow hooks in the front bumper.
How Long Will the 2016 Jeep Cherokee Last?
A properly maintained 2016 Jeep Cherokee will last over 200,000 miles, which is average for its class. There are older versions of the Cherokee that have traveled more miles, but repair costs increase. It’s more expensive to maintain than other SUVs. Repair Pal estimates the maintenance costs to be around $515 per year.
I have not had any difficulties at this time. The only Bad part is that I bought it used and it needs an oil change.
Yes, I haven't had any problems since purchasing it. I utilize both the keyless remote feature and everything else with no problems.
No, they are quite reliable. They do not overheat or break down a lot. The car is very smooth to ride in.
No problems runs great. Just the normal service. Oil changes. So far it was a good purchase. No problem with pick up runs great.
In my opinion I would say the jeep latitude is a really reliable car and efficient. Only problem I have noticed is that it burns through oil pretty quick so you got to keep adding more.
It is very reliable and I have no problems. Once it started stopping on me, but I found out that was my fault because I left the gas cap loose. They just screwed the gas cap back on and I was on my way.
No problems just your normal basic wear and tear, depending on your driving schedule it could last you more than three years and every six months an oil change.
Only issue with the car is the engine oil reader sometimes reads no oil. The car will shut down engine whether your driving or where you are at. Only fix is to keep oil topped off at all times.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology in the 2016 Cherokee is excellent for its class and price. The infotainment technology was initially introduced for the 2014 model year, and was updated in 2016.
- Base technology includes a five-inch infotainment screen with USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Upgrades include a larger 8.4-inch infotainment screen, a nine-speaker Alpine stereo system, and wireless Qi charging.
- For safety, the Cherokee comes with antilock brakes, airbags, and stability and traction control. A backup camera is standard on the Latitude and higher models. Options include a blind-spot warning system, and a forward-collision warning system with automatic braking.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2016 Jeep Cherokee is average compared to other SUVs. With the V6 engine, it goes from 0 to 60 in 6.8 seconds. Towing is good for its class, with a maximum capacity of 4,500 pounds with the upgraded engine.
- The base, and most efficient, engine is a 2.4L four-cylinder with 184 horsepower.
- An upgraded 3.2L V6 is available, producing 271 horsepower.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Cherokee?
The 2016 Cherokee has exterior dimensions similar to a compact SUV, but passenger room is much closer to a midsize. Rear seats in the Cherokee slide and recline, making it more comfortable for adults compared to other choices. Cargo space is below average with only 24.6 cu. ft. of room with the seats up. It’s enough room for four suitcases, but it will be tight. The space increases to 54.9 cu. ft. with the seats folded flat.
How Does the 2016 Jeep Cherokee Compare to Other SUVs?
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee ranks 10th out of 17 midsize SUVs based on owner reviews. At the top of the lineup is the Toyota 4Runner, which is much more expensive than the Cherokee. The Toyota is built with a classic body-on-frame design making it better off-road. The Cherokee has better technology and a more luxurious interior. Where Toyota wins out is with a longer-lasting engine and lower cost of ownership. Ultimately, the price difference is significant here, targeting different car buyers.
Another rival is the Nissan Murano. Prices are similar between the two, but the base Cherokee is slightly more affordable. Reliability is similar, but the Murano does have more transmission problems. The Jeep features a more refined and quieter interior than the Nissan. Overall, the Jeep is the better choice since it has higher-end technology for the money.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Jeep Cherokee a Good SUV?
Based on 848 owner reviews, and information from 11 automotive and government websites, we conclude, yes, the 2016 Jeep Cherokee is a good SUV. A nice interior for its price, combined with the latest technology make it a good choice for buyers looking for a modern SUV. Where it loses some points is with lower reliability ratings than some competitors and a smaller-than-average cargo area. Overall, the 2016 Cherokee is worth a test drive.