The Jeep Cherokee model line for the 2021 model year includes 8 trim levels starting at the Latitude model. The Latitude Lux trim is positioned in the middle, above the Latitude, Latitude Plus, and Altitude models.
Jeep Cherokee Latitude Lux is powered by a 3.2L Pentastar V6 engine with Engine Stop Start (ESS). Sending 271 horsepower through a 9-speed automatic transmission, Latitude delivers 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for a combined average of 22 mpg.
There are also 2.4L NA and 2.0L turbo variations of four-cylinder engine available. The V6 Cherokees present best-in-class towing capability of up to 4,500 pound.
Recently the Dallas area, like many parts of Texas, suffered low temperatures with snow and ice everywhere. The Texas electrical grid nearly collapsed. Work crews are still repairing and upgrading power across the state.
About a half mile from my house, crews have completely changed the geographic features of the power line trail that feeds eventually into the heart of Dallas. This change in terrain turns an area once impossible to reach into a natural course for off-roading. Massive new towers stand connected by paths for maintenance crews, allowing access to the towers. The paths and by-ways lend themselves to become the best places imaginable for adventure.
Though primitive in structure, these paths were built to handle heavy equipment for future building projects. In the present state they make a wonderful opportunity to test Jeep’s off-roading capabilities. I took advantage of this unexpected opportunity the week I drove the Latitude Lux.
With Jeep’s renowned Select Terrain Traction Management System, my off-roading experience was great. The system allows the driver to choose between five modes for optimal on- and off-road performance.
Jeep Cherokee maintains its 4X4 benchmark position while keeping fuel consumption in check by featuring rear-axle disconnect that results in reduced energy loss when 4X4 capability isn’t needed. What I liked the most was how the rear axle disconnect seamlessly switched between two- and four-wheel drive for full-time torque management that doesn’t require input from the driver.
Those few hours of off-roading made me a part of Jeep’s 80-year legendary heritage of providing opportunities for those who seek “Extraordinary Journeys.”
The new Cherokee Latitude Lux includes a whole range of standard premium features, such as Nappa leather seats, power front seats with power lumbar adjuster, heated front seats, premium leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote start, and windshield deicer.
Default Uconnect 4 infotainment system with a 7-inch display, which can be upgraded to an 8.4-inch touchscreen ($995), offers an array of features. Apple CarPlay, Google Android Auto, SiriusXM, Bluetooth, voice recognition, and six speakers are included.
Another feature that isn’t standard but one I thoroughly enjoyed was the Sun and Sound Group. It offers Dual Pane Panoramic Sunroof and premium 9-speaker Alpine Sound System for $2,145.
The 3.5-inch TFT instrument cluster display and steering wheel mounted audio controls keep the driver’s focus on the road. Power front windows with one-touch up/down remove yet more possible distraction for the driver.
Numerous safety features like ParkView Backup Camera and Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Path Detection give the occupants additional peace of mind.
Outside, the Cherokee Latitude Lux is anchored in the corners by 17-inch X 7.0-inch Satin Carbon Aluminum Wheels wearing all season tires. My Latitude was wrapped in a Slate Blue Pearl-Coat exterior paint which complemented the Black/Ski Gray interior. The suggested price for 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Lux 4X4 starts at $31,845
I think the 2021 May issue of Motor Trend Magazines sums up the situation quite nicely when it said, “No one builds a trail ready model in every segment like Jeep does.”
Especially if you want to keep the cost under $40,000.
Warranty Coverage
3 years/36,000 miles Basic Limited Warranty
6 years/60,000 miles Powertrain Limited Warranty
6 years/unlimited miles Corrosion perforation Limited Warranty
6 years/60,000 miles Roadside Assistance
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world He may be reached at this apper or durhlcaussey@gmail.com.
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