The 2027 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is bringing serious off-road hardware to the revived Cherokee lineup, including a two-speed transfer case, an electronic locking rear axle, and increased ground clearance. The trim is positioned as a more trail-capable alternative to the standard Cherokee without switching to a body-on-frame design.

Trailhawk off-road equipment

Jeep’s Active Drive II 4×4 system anchors the Trailhawk package. Its two-speed power transfer unit includes a 2.92:1 low range and helps produce a 37.5:1 crawl ratio, giving the Cherokee lower gearing for steep or technically demanding terrain.

A one-inch lift raises total ground clearance to 9 inches. The Trailhawk also receives revised bumpers that provide approach, breakover, and departure angles of 28.8, 21.9, and 31.8 degrees, respectively.

Underneath, steel skid plates and battery protection are intended to shield key components from trail hazards. The Cherokee rides on 245/65R17 Nexen Rodian ATX all-terrain tires, while Jeep rates its water-fording capability at 24 inches.

The combination of low range and a rear locker gives the Cherokee equipment that can help when a wheel loses traction or when the vehicle encounters steep terrain. Its effectiveness will still depend on how those systems work with the Cherokee’s overall architecture in independent testing.

Powertrain and pricing

The 2027 Cherokee Trailhawk starts at $44,625, including a $1,995 delivery and destination charge. That price includes a 210-horsepower turbocharged hybrid powertrain and an estimated 31 mpg combined.

Production is scheduled to begin in late 2026 at Jeep’s plant in Toluca, Mexico. Orders are already open, according to the supplied information.

Cherokee Trailhawk versus Wrangler

The Trailhawk’s pricing puts it close to the Wrangler. A four-door 2026 Wrangler Sport S starts at $43,435, including destination, although 2027 Wrangler pricing has not yet been announced. The entry-level Wrangler includes solid axles, low range, skid plates, and recovery hooks.

Buyers seeking a rear locker can look to the Wrangler Willys, which starts at $46,935. That gives the Wrangler a clear equipment advantage for customers focused primarily on difficult trails.

The Cherokee Trailhawk’s case is different. It combines trail-oriented hardware with the format of a family SUV, while the Wrangler is more directly focused on off-road use. That balance echoes the appeal of the original compact Cherokee, which paired family-hauling usefulness with the ability to travel well beyond paved roads.