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2021 Jeep Cherokee

Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2021 models.

Jeep Cherokee
Pictured: 26 Jeep Cherokee Limited AZIAS. Photo: HJUdall, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Class
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Body styles
4dr SUV 2WD I4, 4dr SUV 2WD V6, 4dr SUV 4WD I4, 4dr SUV 4WD V6
Engines
2.0L 4-cyl turbo, 2.4L 4-cyl, 3.2L 6-cyl
Horsepower
180–271 hp
Transmission
9-speed automatic
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Seats
5
Fuel
Regular Gasoline
MPG (best)
26 combined · 23 city / 31 hwy
Length
181.5 in
Curb weight
3,662–4,054 lb
NHTSA rating
★★★★★
Recalls
4 campaigns

Pros & cons

What's good

  • Strong performanceUp to 271 hp, versus about 203 hp for similar 2021 models.
  • AWD / 4WD available
  • Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.

Watch out for

No weak spots against similar models in the data.

Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 33 similar 2021 models — not a review. How we calculate this →

Overview

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee is a small SUV offered with 3 engines (2.0L 4-cyl turbo, 2.4L 4-cyl and 3.2L 6-cyl) and front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

It measures about 182 inches long and 73 inches wide on a 106-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,662 lb (4dr SUV 2WD I4).

EPA rates its most efficient version at 26 MPG combined (23 city / 31 highway), 2% worse than the 2021 small SUV average of 26.4 MPG, for an estimated $2,600 a year in fuel.

In NHTSA crash testing it earned a 4-star overall rating.

It has 4 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 176 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the power train.

What changed for 2021

No changes to engines, powertrains, drivetrains, size, EPA ratings or NHTSA crash rating compared with the 2020 Cherokee — a carry-over year in the data.

Compared with 2020; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2020 Cherokee →

Trims, performance & features

Engine271 hp3.2L 6-cyl
Engine180 hp2.4L 4-cyl
Transmission9-speed automatic
DriveAWD/4WD
Seating5 seats · 2 rows

Trims

TrailhawkAltitude, Latitude LuxLimitedLatitude Plus

Safety & driver-assist features

Automatic emergency brakingStandard
Forward collision warningStandard
Blind-spot monitoringStandard
Lane departure warningStandard
Lane keeping assistStandard
Lane centeringStandard
Adaptive cruise controlStandard
Parking assistStandard
Backup cameraStandard
Automatic high beamsStandard
Keyless startStandard
LED headlightsYes

Built in: Belvidere, Illinois

NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 5 2021 Cherokee configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →

Dimensions & weight

BodyLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack F / RCurb weightWeight F/R
4dr SUV 2WD I4181.5 in73.2 in66.5 in106.3 in61.8 / 61.8 in3,662 lb57/43
4dr SUV 2WD V6181.5 in73.2 in66.5 in106.3 in61.8 / 61.8 in3,788 lb57/43
4dr SUV 4WD I4181.5 in73.2 in66.5 in106.3 in61.8 / 61.8 in3,962 lb57/43
4dr SUV 4WD V6181.5 in73.2 in66.5 in106.3 in61.8 / 61.8 in4,054 lb57/43

Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.

Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →

Engines, MPG & running costs

VersionEngineTransmissionDriveCity / Hwy / Combvs. classFuel / yrCO₂ g/mi
Cherokee FWD2.0L 4-cyl turboAutomatic 9-spdFront-Wheel Drive23 / 31 / 26-2%$2,600345
Cherokee FWD2.4L 4-cylAutomatic 9-spdFront-Wheel Drive22 / 31 / 25-5%$2,700352
Cherokee 4WD2.0L 4-cyl turboAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive21 / 29 / 240%$2,800369
Cherokee 4WD2.4L 4-cylAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive21 / 29 / 240%$2,800370
Cherokee FWD3.2L 6-cylAutomatic 9-spdFront-Wheel Drive20 / 29 / 23-13%$2,900387
Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II2.0L 4-cyl turboAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive20 / 27 / 23-4%$2,900387
Cherokee 4WD3.2L 6-cylAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive19 / 27 / 22-8%$3,050400
Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II3.2L 6-cylAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive18 / 26 / 21-12%$3,200416
Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD3.2L 6-cylAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive18 / 24 / 21-12%$3,200432
5/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
5/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Spend $1,000Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
26.4 MPG2021 Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD average

EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2021 EPA class average. How we calculate this →

Safety ratings & technology

VersionOverallFrontalDriver / passengerSideSide poleRolloverRollover risk
2021 Jeep Cherokee SUV 4WD★★★★★★★★★★4★ / 5★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★16.9%
2021 Jeep Cherokee SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★4★ / 5★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%
StandardElectronic stability control
OptionalForward collision warning
Not availableLane departure warning
Frontal crash test — 2021 Jeep Cherokee SUV 4WD
Frontal crash test — 2021 Jeep Cherokee SUV 4WD. Photo: NHTSA.
Side crash test — 2021 Jeep Cherokee SUV 4WD
Side crash test — 2021 Jeep Cherokee SUV 4WD. Photo: NHTSA.

Similar 2021 small SUVs

ModelBest MPG / rangeNHTSA overallRecalls
2021 Jeep Cherokee (this car)26 MPG★★★★★4
2021 Toyota RAV440 MPG★★★★★1
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime38 MPGNot rated4
2021 Honda CR-V38 MPG★★★★★5
2021 Toyota 4Runner17 MPG★★★★★1
2021 Hyundai Tucson25 MPG★★★★★1
2021 Subaru Forester29 MPG★★★★★0

Recalls (4)

Power Train · May 7, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V290000 · 61,711 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
Risk
A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix
Dealers will update the Drivetrain Control Drivetrain Control Module, PTU, and Electronic Park Brake software, and replace the PTU, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were mailed June 25, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy becomes available. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 40D. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 14, 2026.
Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain · Jul 8, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V516000 · 13 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the right-side curtain air bag may prevent the air bag from deploying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
Risk
An air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix
Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 71B.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Cooler/Radiator › Hoses And Fittings · May 4, 2021

NHTSA campaign 21V310000 · 18,800 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The transmission oil cooler hose may have been incorrectly cured, allowing transmission fluid to leak.
Risk
A transmission fluid leak increases the risk of a fire.
Fix
Dealers will inspect and replace the hose, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed May 18, 2021. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Y18.
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Arm · Oct 27, 2020

NHTSA campaign 20V657000 · 698 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude and Jeep Cherokee Limited vehicles. One or both of the front lower control arms may fracture while driving.
Risk
A front lower control arm fracture while driving may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash without prior warning.
Fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front lower control arms and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2020. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W81. Note: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicles until they have been inspected and repaired if needed.
Check your VIN for open recalls at NHTSA ↗

Not every 2021 Jeep Cherokee is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.

Owner-reported problems

176Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
10Involved a crash
4Involved a fire
8Injuries reported
60,000 miTypical mileage at failure
Power Train99
Engine28
Unknown Or Other26
Electrical System22
Service Brakes13
Air Bags9
Fuel/Propulsion System5
Suspension5
Complaints received per month (last 24 months with reports)
24/05: 224/06: 224/07: 224/09: 124/12: 325/01: 325/02: 325/03: 525/04: 325/06: 425/08: 725/09: 425/10: 525/11: 625/12: 526/01: 326/03: 626/04: 326/05: 826/06: 426/07: 726/08: 1226/09: 1326/10: 1024/0524/0925/0225/0625/1026/0126/0526/08max 13

Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.

Used 2021 Jeep Cherokee buyer's checklist

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 4 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
  2. Power Train — 99 owner reports. Test-drive through all gears, including reverse; note slipping, harsh or delayed shifts.
  3. Engine — 28 owner reports. Cold-start the engine, listen for knocking, and watch for warning lights or hesitation on acceleration.
  4. Electrical System — 22 owner reports. Test every window, lock, light, screen and USB port; check the battery age.
  5. Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 60,000 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
  6. Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.

Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.

Other Cherokee years

Compare all years →
YearMPG (best)LengthOverallRecallsComplaints
2026 Cherokee37188.2 inNot rated49
2023 Cherokee24181.5 in★★★★★13
2022 Cherokee26181.5 in★★★★★352
2020 Cherokee26181.5 in★★★★★3334
2019 Cherokee26181.5 in★★★★★111,672
2018 Cherokee25181.9 in★★★★★7688
2017 Cherokee25181.9 in★★★★★61,338
2016 Cherokee25181.9 in★★★★★91,412
2015 Cherokee25181.9 in★★★★★111,778
2014 Cherokee25181.9 in★★★★★132,431

Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Jeep. How we calculate this →