The new Jeep Cherokee may not be a looker, but at least it replaces the “dreadful” Liberty, says Consumer Reports’ Tom Mutschler. To assess the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, the magazine bought not one, but two cars: a 4-cylinder Latitude model with no additional options that cost $27,490, and a V6 Limited model with many extras that set them back $37,525.

The tester complained about the base model’s equipment, which doesn’t include a power driver seat, back-up camera or a sunroof, as some of its competitors do.

The V6 model, on the other hand, is described as a baby Grand Cherokee, as it feels quiet and solid for its class. However, it also feels heavier than the more agile Ford Escape and VW Tiguan, while the 9-speed automatic gearbox still needs refining.

In conclusion, Consumer Reports says the 2014 Cherokee is quite capable off-road, provided that the customer opts for the Trailhawk model.

For more about Jeep’s compact SUV, take a look at the video posted below.

By Dan Mihalascu

VIDEO