Jeep Cherokee vs Toyota RAV4
The 2022 Jeep Cherokee and 2022 Toyota RAV4 are two of the most popular compact SUVs on the used market, appealing to buyers who want versatility, all-weather capability, and reasonable running costs. While the Cherokee lures shoppers with its rugged styling and slightly higher used asking price, the RAV4 counters with Toyota's legendary reliability reputation and stronger resale. The true cost of ownership tells a more revealing story than the sticker price alone.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 costs significantly less to own over five years due to superior reliability, lower repair costs, and dramatically better resale value retention compared to the Jeep Cherokee's historically steep depreciation curve.
2022 Jeep Cherokee
- Strong off-road capability adds utility value
- Available 4WD trims enhance all-weather versatility
- Competitive insurance rates for the segment
- Among the worst depreciation in the compact SUV class — loses ~52% in 5 years
- Above-average repair frequency drives higher maintenance costs
- 2.4L and 2.0T engines both lag RAV4 in real-world fuel economy
2022 Toyota RAV4
Winner- Retains roughly 42% of value after 5 years — class-leading resale
- Exceptional reliability record keeps unplanned repair costs very low
- 2.5L engine delivers an EPA-rated 28/35 mpg, saving ~$180/yr vs Cherokee
- Higher initial demand means less negotiating room on used price
- Standard safety tech already strong but some advanced features cost extra
- Interior materials feel utilitarian despite solid build quality
Category by category
The verdict
Over five years the Toyota RAV4 saves a typical buyer roughly $5,640 in total cost of ownership compared to the Jeep Cherokee, primarily through lower depreciation, better fuel economy, and far fewer repair visits. The Cherokee is not without merit — it offers genuine trail capability that the RAV4 cannot fully match — but for the majority of daily-driver buyers those strengths rarely justify the ownership cost premium. Unless the Jeep's off-road credentials are a firm requirement, the RAV4 is the objectively smarter financial choice.
Jeep Cherokee: The 2022 Jeep Cherokee is best for buyers who prioritize off-road trail capability and rugged styling and plan to keep the vehicle only 2–3 years before depreciation accelerates most sharply.
Toyota RAV4: The 2022 Toyota RAV4 is the ideal pick for cost-conscious buyers who plan to keep their SUV 4–6 years and want maximum reliability, low repair bills, and strong resale protection.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2022 Jeep Cherokee reliable?
The 2022 Cherokee scores below average in reliability surveys, with the turbocharged 2.0T engine and 9-speed ZF transmission being the most frequently cited problem areas; the naturally aspirated 2.4L is somewhat more dependable but still trails the RAV4.
Does the Toyota RAV4 hold its value better than the Jeep Cherokee?
Yes — the RAV4 is one of the best-depreciating compact SUVs on the market, retaining roughly 58% of MSRP after five years compared to around 48% for the Cherokee, a gap worth thousands at trade-in.
Which gets better gas mileage, the 2022 RAV4 or 2022 Cherokee?
The RAV4 (2.5L, AWD) earns an EPA-rated 27/35 mpg versus the Cherokee's 22/31 mpg (2.0T AWD), saving the average driver approximately $180–$220 per year in fuel costs.
What are typical repair costs for a used 2022 Jeep Cherokee?
RepairPal estimates average annual repair costs for the Cherokee at around $521, but owners report higher-than-average unscheduled repair frequency, pushing real 5-year out-of-pocket maintenance closer to $7,000–$9,000.
Is the RAV4 worth the extra competition and sometimes higher used price?
For most buyers, yes — the RAV4's lower depreciation alone typically offsets any small used-price premium within 18–24 months, and its reliability advantage continues to pay dividends throughout ownership.