Jeep Cherokee 2015 review

Limited edition models are usually marketing speak for “we need to shift stock” and typically involve more chrome plating. The Jeep Cherokee Blackhawk doesn’t follow this convention.

For a start the Cherokee isn’t exactly suffering in the sales race, posting similar numbers to the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage. Unlike those soft-roaders, the Jeep packages genuine off-road ability into the mid-sized SUV segment.

The chrome approach has also been ditched for blacked-out highlights, from the badging and window surrounds to the interior itself. Check those badges — our vehicle’s rear Blackhawk logo wasn’t level or firmly affixed. The good news is it’s a human error rather than a production fault.

The Blackhawk is based on the $39,000 base model Longitude and comes at a $2000 premium.

That’s a lot of cash to pay for what could be accomplished with some masking tape and a can of black paint, which is why there are some decent upgrades beyond the new bling.

the Jeep packages genuine off-road ability into the mid-sized SUV segment.

The Longitude’s standard 17-inch rims grow to 18s (black, of course) and the 5-inch mulitimedia system has been discarded for the proper 8.4-inch Jeep Uconnect touch panel.

The Blackhawk has one of the flattest, firmest rides in this class. That’s great news for those who don’t appreciate a lot of body roll and don’t want too much low-speed jostling over speed bumps. It does affect the Jeep’s comfort off the beaten track with big ruts and rocks transmitting their presence into the cabin.

The on-demand four-wheel-drive system is almost impossible to detect when activating and disengaging.

The same can’t be said for the nine-speed auto. Under light to moderate throttle it kicks when switching up in the lower cogs.

It isn’t savage, but it is noticeable and made more evident by the surge of torque from the 3.2-litre V6.

The Selec-Terrain software can be left in auto on or off-road and will determine the best way to apply traction to whatever surface the Jeep is rolling over, though owners can manually switch into sport, snow, sand and mud modes.