Jeep’s midsize Cherokee SUV added its latest trim variant via the Cherokee Overland in mid-2016. As one of five trim levels (Sport, Latitude, Limited, Trailhawk, and Overland), the Cherokee Overland 4x4 is the lone offering powered by a standard 3.2-liter V6. During a two-week test drive, the 2017 Cherokee Overland handily demonstrated its steadiness in inclement winter weather by effortlessly moving through snow-clogged roads. The Cherokee’s standard Bi-Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps provided this driver clarity during night travel along snow and ice-covered gravel roads.

The test driven vehicle’s 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 produced 271 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 239 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. That engine includes engine stop-start technology. (Cherokee’s other engine is a 2.4-liter 184 horsepower/171 torque 4-cylinder.) All models use a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Cherokee Overland 4x4 provides a minimum ground running clearance of 8.7 inches. For cargo haulers, the rear bay has 24.6 cubic feet with rear seats upright and 54.9 cubic feet with rear seats folded. Test driven 2017 Cherokee Overland 4x4 carries a base MSRP of $37,695 and estimated mpg of 18 city/26 highway.