2020 Jeep Cherokee High Altitude Review – An Elevated Drive
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee High Altitude is a premium trim that pushes the boundaries of Jeep’s usual rugged reputation, offering a unique balance of luxury and performance. For buyers who love an SUV that can both tackle outdoor adventures and deliver smooth urban rides, the Cherokee High Altitude promises to meet those expectations. Below, we dig deep into the ins and outs of this model and see if it really lives up to the hype.
Overview of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee High Altitude
The High Altitude edition of the Cherokee brings premium aesthetics and tech-forward features to an already popular mid-size SUV. It offers a comfortable drive with excellent on-road manners while retaining the off-road capability that makes Jeep famous. However, this luxury comes at a higher price point, and that raises the question: is it worth the investment?
Let’s take a closer look at what sets this version apart from other Cherokee trims and where it might fall short for some drivers.
Key Features
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Engine Options:
- 2.4L Tigershark® MultiAir® 2 engine (180 hp / 171 lb-ft of torque)
- 3.2L Pentastar® V6 engine (271 hp / 239 lb-ft of torque)
- 2.0L Turbo engine (270 hp / 295 lb-ft of torque)
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Transmission: 9-speed automatic
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Drivetrain: Available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or Jeep’s Active Drive 4x4 system
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Towing Capacity: Up to 4500 lbs with the V6 engine
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Fuel Economy: 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (2.0L Turbo)
Design and Exterior
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee High Altitude doesn’t look like your typical off-road warrior. It wears a sleek, refined exterior designed to appeal to those who prefer urban adventures. The darkened 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and matching gloss-black exterior accents make it stand out, giving the vehicle a sophisticated presence. Jeep removed the aggressive fender flares found on lower trims, favoring a streamlined look that fits in both the office parking lot and a country club driveway.
The Cherokee’s signature seven-slot grille is still present, but it gets a glossy makeover to align with the luxurious theme of the High Altitude. On the road, it’s an SUV that draws attention without screaming for it.
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Pros:
- Stylish wheels and refined exterior trim
- Full LED lighting for both headlights and taillights
- Premium body-colored door handles and mirrors
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Cons:
- Some drivers feel that it loses a bit of its off-road charm
- Limited exterior color options
Interior and Comfort
Inside the Cherokee High Altitude, Jeep focused on providing premium comfort. Leather-trimmed seats with detailed stitching come standard, and the heated front seats are a welcome feature during colder months. The Uconnect® 4C NAV system is intuitive, offering Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, so you’ll always stay connected.
There’s also an 8.4-inch touchscreen that gives you access to navigation, climate control, and audio settings in one place. Dual-zone automatic climate control helps keep everyone comfortable, whether you’re on a long road trip or just commuting to work.
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Pros:
- Quiet cabin with minimal road noise
- Comfortable, well-bolstered seats
- Plenty of tech features
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Cons:
- Rear-seat legroom might feel tight for taller passengers
- Some drivers report that the Uconnect system can lag occasionally
Alex Collantes on the Interior:
"I’ve driven a lot of SUVs, but the Cherokee High Altitude has a surprising level of comfort. It’s not something I expected from Jeep, honestly. It feels upscale without being too pretentious.”
Engine Performance and Driving Experience
Jeep offers three engine options for the Cherokee High Altitude, allowing you to select one that matches your driving needs. For most drivers, the 2.0L Turbo engine will be the sweet spot, providing a satisfying mix of power and efficiency. It delivers enough horsepower to confidently handle highway merges while still returning decent fuel economy.
If towing is part of your lifestyle, the 3.2L Pentastar® V6 is the engine to go for. With a towing capacity of 4500 lbs, it’s ideal for pulling small trailers, boats, or campers. The 9-speed automatic transmission, however, has mixed reviews. Some drivers appreciate the smooth shifts, while others find the transmission can feel sluggish at low speeds.
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Pros:
- Good balance between power and fuel economy with the 2.0L Turbo
- V6 engine offers impressive towing capability
- Handles well in both city and highway driving
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Cons:
- 9-speed transmission feels hesitant in stop-and-go traffic
- Not as agile as some competitors in its class
Driving Modes:
- Auto Mode: Adjusts to road conditions automatically
- Snow Mode: Improves traction on icy roads
- Sport Mode: Provides a more responsive throttle
Off-Road Capability
Although the High Altitude trim focuses more on luxury, it still retains the 4x4 capability that Jeep enthusiasts expect. The Active Drive I system comes standard with models equipped with all-wheel drive, and it provides seamless traction management across different terrains. However, this trim lacks some of the off-road-specific features found in the Trailhawk version, such as skid plates and tow hooks.
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Pros:
- Handles dirt trails and gravel roads with ease
- Reliable 4x4 system for winter driving
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Cons:
- Not as off-road capable as the Trailhawk trim
- Limited ground clearance compared to other off-road SUVs
Alex Collantes’ Take on the Off-Road Performance:
"It can handle the occasional off-road adventure, but let’s be honest—this trim is more for people who want a luxurious daily driver with the option to take a dirt road now and then."
Safety Features
Jeep didn’t cut corners when it comes to safety on the 2020 Cherokee High Altitude. It comes loaded with a range of advanced safety features, making it a good option for families and commuters alike. Some of the notable features include:
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking
- LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning System
- ParkSense® Rear Park Assist with Stop
These systems work together to reduce the likelihood of accidents and provide peace of mind behind the wheel.
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Pros:
- Plenty of driver-assistance technologies included
- Rearview camera with parking sensors
- Reliable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA
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Cons:
- Some systems, like LaneSense, can feel intrusive
- Adaptive cruise control only available as part of an optional package
Pricing and Value
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee High Altitude starts at around $36,000. With added features like 4x4, a V6 engine, and upgraded interior materials, the price can climb closer to $40,000. While it offers a lot of value in terms of comfort and features, it might seem pricey when compared to some competitors like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
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Pros:
- Premium features for a competitive price
- Strong resale value for a Jeep
- Available incentives and financing deals
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Cons:
- Some competitors offer more interior space at a similar price
- Limited off-road features for the price
Final Verdict
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee High Altitude offers a unique blend of luxury, tech, and off-road capability. While it might not be the first choice for hardcore off-road enthusiasts, it is perfect for drivers who want a stylish, comfortable SUV that can handle a little adventure when needed. The premium materials and sleek design make it a standout in the compact SUV segment.
If you are looking for an SUV that offers style, performance, and a touch of luxury, the High Altitude trim deserves serious consideration. However, if you need something more rugged, you might want to explore the Trailhawk version.
Alex Collantes’ Final Thoughts:
"It’s a solid choice if you want a Jeep that looks good on the street but can still take you through the occasional snowy mountain pass. It’s not a hardcore off-roader, but it’s great for most people’s everyday needs."
In summary:
- Perfect for: Commuters who want luxury and a bit of adventure
- Not ideal for: Hardcore off-roaders or those needing extra cargo space
Conclusion:
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee High Altitude offers a taste of luxury without sacrificing capability. While it’s not without its flaws, the blend of premium features, modern tech, and off-road competence makes it a compelling option for those seeking an elevated driving experience.