Yes, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee does come with: segment first 9-speed automatic transmission, two new engines, 31 MPG highway, and even 4,500 lbs of towing with the V6 option. Sound nice already? Well, this new Cherokee also comes with three different 4×4 systems to boot. And this 2014 Jeep Cherokee TrailHawk edition aims to defend the off-road worthy legacy of the original Cherokee.
The three 4×4 systems are: Jeep Active Drive I, Active Drive II, and Active Drive Lock. Note: all three of these feature rear-axle disconnect, which stops sending power to rear wheels when 4×4 capability is not needed.
The Active Drive I is available on Sport, Latitude, and Limited models. This system is basically like an all-wheel-drive. It is fully automatic and requires no driver intervention or feedback. It provides yaw, understeer, and oversteer correction. Translation, it will keep on the straight and narrow even in slippery conditions.
The Active Drive II is the next step up and is available on the same Cherokee models as the Active Drive I. This one uses a two-speed power transfer unit PTU, instead of the one-speed. It offers torque management and low range. The 4-Low mode provides 2.92:1 gear reduction and is capable of locking both front and rear drive shafts for even power distribution. It provides 56:1 crawl ration with the 2.4 liter four cylinder, and 47.6:1 ratio with the 3.2 V6 “baby” Pentastar. This is nearly doubling the crawl ration of the outgoing Jeep Liberty.
The Active Drive Lock system is the final step and is available on this TrailHawk edition. It brings all the features of the Active Drive II, but also adds rear differential locking. So the power output can locked front, rear, and evenly to both rear wheels. Rear diff lock can be engaged by the driver, or will automatically engage in the “Rock” mode of Jeep’s Select-Terrain system. The Select-Terrain system also has Auto, Snow, Sport, and Sand/Mud settings.
All in all, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee TrailHawk sounds mighty capable when your path turns steep and slick. Nathan is currently trying out these systems in Moab, UT. And we cannot wait to get to test the new Cherokee on our Colorado trails.
Nathan will report from the 2013 Easter Jeep Safari soon, but while we wait for him to return from Moab please check out this video of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee TrailHawk in action, climbing steep grades, crawling over things, …
