Jeep Cherokee

Polarizing to purists and newcomers alike, the Cherokee is the best-driving small Jeep. Solid, not light, with good on-road dynamics, the Cherokee offers a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and 3.2-liter V-6 engines (the V-6 is better for all-wheel drive and towing) and a nine-speed automatic for highway cruising. Cabin tech and materials rival the Grand Cherokee; cargo capacity, however, is average at best. Designed for “Jeepin’,” the Trailhawk rivals a larger, equally capable, Grand Cherokee on cost.