There’s an old saying we’ve heard kicked around as an explanation of life’s certainties. We can’t remember exactly how it goes, but we think it goes something like, “There are three things you can count on: death, taxes, and Jeep selling off-road SUVs.” The first two are self-explanatory, and now that Jeep is reintroducing the Trailhawk trim to the Cherokee, the third rings true as well.
Jeep
Like the Trailhawk models of yore, the 2027 Cherokee Trailhawk comes with redesigned front and rear fascias and red tow hooks that help it stand out in a crowd. Upgraded suspension and a one-inch lift contribute to a higher ride height, and the new Trailhawk rides on 17-inch wheels with 245/65R-17 Nexen Roadian ATX all-terrain tires.
The extra height coupled with the redesigned fascias helps with approach and departure angles. According to Jeep, the new Trailhawk’s approach angle is up to 28.8 degrees, while the departure angle has been improved to 31.8 degrees. Between the lifted suspension and a bit of fiddling with the spring and damper tuning, Jeep was also able to give the Trailhawk a 45-point improvement on the Ramp Travel Index over the rest of the Cherokee lineup. Thankfully, if owners misjudge their angle a bit, Jeep has things covered with steel skid plates to protect the front axle, wiring, and fuel tank, and an additional plate for the hybrid system’s battery.
Jeep
The Cherokee Trailhawk should be fine if things get a bit damp, since the SUV has nine inches of ground clearance and is rated to ford water up to 24 inches deep. Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II 4×4 system with a locking rear differential and a two-speed transfer case should also help with traction over loose surfaces.
Production for the 2027 Cherokee Trailhawk won’t start until later this year, though interested parties can already place an order. According to Jeep, the revived trim will start at $44,625, making it slightly less expensive than the range-topping Overland trim.