The Jeep Cherokee uses a unique active four-wheel-drive system that automatically distributes power. This often leaves people wondering is Jeep Cherokee AWD or 4WD exactly, and the answer isn’t as simple as picking one box. The Cherokee actually blends features of both, making it a versatile option for different driving conditions.
Many drivers get confused because the system works like an all-wheel-drive (AWD) car most of the time. But it also has a low-range gear and other off-road capabilities that are typical of a traditional four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. Let’s break down exactly what you are getting with a Jeep Cherokee.
Is Jeep Cherokee Awd Or 4Wd
The short answer is that the Jeep Cherokee is technically a 4WD vehicle, but it operates very much like an AWD system in normal driving. The official name for the system is Jeep Active Drive, and it comes in a few different versions. Each version offers a different level of capability, but they all share the same core idea.
The system is always on. You don’t need to shift into four-wheel drive manually. The vehicle’s computer decides when to send power to the rear wheels. This is why many people think of it as AWD. However, the system includes a low-range gear for serious off-roading, which is a classic 4WD feature.
Understanding The Active Drive System
Jeep’s Active Drive system is a full-time, automatic four-wheel-drive system. It is designed to provide traction in all conditions without any input from the driver. The system uses a power transfer unit (PTU) and a rear drive module (RDM) to send power to the rear axle when needed.
Under normal driving conditions, the Cherokee operates in front-wheel drive to save fuel. When the system detects wheel slip, or when you accelerate hard, it can send up to 100% of the engine’s power to the rear wheels. This happens seamlessly and instantly.
Active Drive I
This is the base system found on many Cherokee models. It is a full-time 4WD system that automatically engages the rear axle when needed. It does not have a low-range gear. This version is best for light off-roading and improving traction on wet or snowy roads.
- Automatic engagement of rear axle
- No low-range gear
- Best for on-road and light trail use
- Selec-Terrain traction management system
Active Drive II
This is the more capable version. It includes everything from Active Drive I, but adds a low-range gear. This gives the Cherokee true off-road capability. The low-range gear provides extra torque at low speeds for climbing steep hills or crawling over rocks.
- Includes low-range gear (4WD Low)
- Increased off-road capability
- Hill descent control
- Selec-Terrain system with Sand/Mud mode
Active Drive Lock
This is the top-tier system found on the Trailhawk model. It builds on Active Drive II by adding a rear locking differential. This locks both rear wheels together so they spin at the same speed. This provides maximum traction in extremely slippery or uneven terrain.
- Rear locking differential
- Low-range gear
- Highest off-road capability
- Increased ground clearance and skid plates
How It Differs From Traditional AWD
Traditional AWD systems are designed primarily for on-road use. They improve traction in rain, snow, and light mud. They usually cannot handle serious off-road trails. The Jeep Cherokee’s system is different because it is built for more than just bad weather.
The inclusion of a low-range gear in Active Drive II and Active Drive Lock is the biggest difference. Most AWD systems do not have a low-range gear. This gear allows the Cherokee to crawl over obstacles at very low speeds with high torque. This is a key feature of a true 4WD system.
Another difference is the Selec-Terrain system. This allows you to choose a driving mode based on the terrain. Options include Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud, and Rock. Each mode adjusts the throttle response, transmission shift points, and traction control to optimize performance for that specific condition. AWD systems usually have fewer or no driver-selectable modes.
How It Differs From Traditional 4WD
Traditional 4WD systems, like those in the Jeep Wrangler, often require the driver to shift into four-wheel drive manually. They often have a part-time system where the front and rear axles are locked together for off-road use. This is not ideal for dry pavement because it can cause driveline binding.
The Cherokee’s system is full-time and automatic. You never have to shift into 4WD. The system manages everything for you. This makes it much easier to use in everyday driving. You get the benefits of 4WD without any of the manual work.
Traditional 4WD systems also often have a solid front axle. The Cherokee uses an independent front suspension. This gives it a smoother ride on the road and better handling. However, a solid axle is often preferred for extreme off-roading because it offers more articulation.
Which Cherokee Models Have Which System
The type of Active Drive system you get depends on the trim level you choose. Not all Cherokees are created equal. Here is a quick breakdown of what you can expect from each trim.
Latitude And Latitude Plus
These base trims typically come with Active Drive I. They are great for daily driving and handling snow or light trails. They do not have the low-range gear for serious off-roading. You can get a good amount of traction without the extra cost of a more complex system.
Limited And Overland
These trims often offer Active Drive II as an option. You can also get it as standard equipment on some model years. This gives you the low-range gear for more capability. If you plan to do any moderate off-roading, this is a good choice.
Trailhawk
This is the off-road focused trim. It comes standard with Active Drive Lock. This includes the rear locking differential and the low-range gear. It also has a higher ground clearance, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. This is the most capable Cherokee you can buy.
Real World Driving Experience
In normal driving, the Cherokee feels like a front-wheel-drive car. The engine power goes to the front wheels most of the time. When you accelerate from a stop, the system sends power to the rear wheels to help with traction. This happens smoothly and you usually cannot feel it working.
On slippery roads, the system is very effective. It can react quickly to wheel spin and transfer power to the wheels with the most grip. This gives you a lot of confidence in rain or snow. The Selec-Terrain system also helps by adjusting the stability control for the conditions.
When you take it off-road, the system shines. In Active Drive II or Lock, you can shift into 4WD Low for crawling. The vehicle will climb over rocks and through mud with ease. The hill descent control also helps you go down steep slopes safely without needing to use the brakes.
Fuel Economy Considerations
One of the main advantages of the Cherokee’s system is its fuel economy. Because it operates in front-wheel drive most of the time, it uses less fuel than a traditional full-time 4WD system. The system disconnects the rear axle when it is not needed to reduce drag.
This is a big reason why the Cherokee is popular as a daily driver. You get the off-road capability when you need it, but you don’t pay for it at the pump every day. The system is designed to be efficient without sacrificing performance.
Common Misconceptions
There is a lot of confusion about the Cherokee’s drivetrain. Some people think it is just an AWD system because it is automatic. Others think it is a full-time 4WD system like a Wrangler. The truth is somewhere in the middle.
Another misconception is that all Cherokees are the same. The base Active Drive I system is not as capable as the Active Drive Lock system. If you buy a base model, you are getting a system that is more like AWD. If you buy a Trailhawk, you are getting a true off-road 4WD system.
Some people also think the system is unreliable because it is complex. While it is a sophisticated system, it has proven to be reliable over the years. Regular maintenance, like changing the transfer case fluid, is important to keep it working properly.
Maintenance Tips For Your System
To keep your Cherokee’s 4WD system working well, you need to do some basic maintenance. This is not hard to do, but it is important. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Check the fluid levels: The transfer case and rear differential need to have the correct fluid level. Check them at every oil change.
- Change the fluids: The transfer case fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. The rear differential fluid should be changed at the same interval.
- Listen for noises: If you hear grinding or whining noises from the drivetrain, get it checked out. This could be a sign of a problem.
- Use the system: It is a good idea to use the 4WD system regularly, even if you don’t need it. This keeps the components lubricated and working properly.
- Check for leaks: Look for any signs of fluid leaks around the transfer case and rear differential. Leaks can lead to damage if not fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Jeep Cherokee AWD or 4WD?
The Jeep Cherokee uses an automatic 4WD system called Active Drive. It operates like an AWD system in normal driving but includes features like a low-range gear on some models, making it a true 4WD system.
Can I drive a Jeep Cherokee in 4WD on dry pavement?
Yes, the system is designed for full-time use. It automatically disconnects the rear axle when not needed, so there is no driveline binding. It is safe to drive on dry pavement in 4WD mode.
Does the Jeep Cherokee have a 4WD low range?
Only the Active Drive II and Active Drive Lock systems have a low-range gear. The base Active Drive I system does not. Check your trim level to see which system you have.
Is the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk a true 4WD?
Yes, the Trailhawk with Active Drive Lock is a true 4WD system. It has a low-range gear and a rear locking differential, making it very capable off-road.
How do I know which 4WD system my Jeep Cherokee has?
You can check the window sticker or your owner’s manual. You can also look for a button that says “4WD Low” on the center console. If you have that button, you have Active Drive II or Active Drive Lock.
So, to answer the question is Jeep Cherokee AWD or 4WD, the most accurate answer is that it is a modern, automatic 4WD system that offers the best of both worlds. It gives you the convenience and fuel economy of an AWD system for daily driving, but it also provides the capability and low-range gearing of a traditional 4WD system when you need to go off the beaten path. The specific version you get depends on the trim level you choose, but all of them are designed to keep you moving in a variety of conditions.
If you are looking for a vehicle that can handle your daily commute and also take you on weekend adventures, the Jeep Cherokee is a solid choice. Its unique drivetrain is one of its best features. Just make sure you pick the right trim level for the kind of driving you plan to do. The Trailhawk is the best for serious off-roading, while the base models are great for light trails and bad weather.
Remember to maintain your system properly to keep it running smoothly for years to come. With regular fluid changes and a little bit of care, your Cherokee’s 4WD system will serve you well. It is a versatile and capable system that is often misunderstood. Now you know exactly what it is and how it works.
Hopefully this clears up the confusion about the Jeep Cherokee’s drivetrain. It is a smart system that adapts to your driving needs. Whether you are on the highway or on a rocky trail, the Cherokee is ready to go. The key is understanding which system you have and what it can do. With that knowledge, you can get the most out of your vehicle.