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Compact SUVs are all the rage right now, much like the sport utility vehicle segment overall. With such popularity comes high demand and plenty of options to choose from. However, there is one compact SUV that’s actually better cheaper. Compare the two available options below from Jeep to see how that is possible and one potential explanation for this affordable vehicle.

In 2023, the compact SUV segment has more than 20 options for shoppers to select from. There are hybrid options and luxury versions, along with best-sellers and the occasional off-road capable outlier. Since there are so many good compact sport utility vehicles to choose from, automakers must add plenty of features to make each one stand out.

However, those stand-out options can get expensive. Even if there are many packages and trim levels to choose from, these can add up pretty quickly. However, it doesn’t always have to be expensive to get the best compact SUV. The 2023 Jeep Cherokee Altitude Lux is actually the cheaper version of the Cherokee, but it is better in a few ways.

The Jeep Cherokee Altitude is a compact SUV that is better cheaper

A compact SUV that is better cheaper is the Jeep Cherokee seen here
A 2023 Jeep Cherokee Altitude Lux | Jeep

Jeep offers the Cherokee in two trim levels this year, the 2023 Jeep Cherokee Altitude Lux or the Trailhawk. Both the Altitude Lux and the Trailhawk are 4×4, but the Altitude starts at $37,695 versus the Tailhawk’s $41,295. This version also gets better fuel economy, 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Jeep added plenty of features to the Altitude compact SUV, such as lighted mirrors, heated exterior mirrors, ambient LED lighting, and automatic headlights/high beams. The Altitude received rain-sensitive wipers on the front and a rear window wiper and washer on the back. It even receives a standard spare tire that the Trailhawk doesn’t get.

Both versions get a 115-volt power outlet, a 12-volt outlet in the cargo area, front/rear climate control, and tons of safety systems. Jeep added adaptive cruise control, all-speed traction control, blind-spot warning, and even electronic roll mitigation to both options.

The 2023 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is capable but expensive

When comparing the two Cherokee trims, the Trailhawk is a good option for those who take the off-road thing pretty seriously. Otherwise, there isn’t much reason to upgrade this compact SUV. Jeep offers plenty of packages and additions that can be added on, but the 2023 Jeep Cherokee Altitude Lux comes pretty stacked with features already.

Car & Driver says the Jeep Cherokee will likely end production soon, as the automaker already idled the Belvedere, Illinois, plant producing the compact SUV. It makes sense there would be a price drop to get the remaining options built and out the door. This isn’t goodbye forever, but the Cherokee could be taking an extended hiatus. The good news is that the 2023 Jeep Cherokee Altitude Lux is a cheaper compact SUV that’s better for most buyers.

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Staff Writer

Amanda Cline

Amanda Cline is an avid fan of Formula 1 and joined MotorBiscuit in 2021. A Southwest Floridian, she easily and often finds automotive events to attend in the Tampa, Orlando, and Miami areas.
Amanda is a graduate of the University of Central Florida, where she earned a Bachelor’s in English Literature and a Master’s in Technical Communication. Combining her editorial and digital media expertise, Amanda served as a content creator for FanSided and now provides our readers with a variety of automotive subject matter like pickup trucks and SUVs, including valuable consumer advice.

Amanda closely follows many F1 drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Her all-time favorite author is Shel Silverstein.