Hi @rja9003. Welcome to the forum! So, the different modes on the Cherokee have been a discussion item for some time because Jeep hasn't really published hard-details on all the system's workings with most of the documents/materials referring to power splits and other high-level details. Even then, there's still not 100% agreement within the Cherokee community on whether it works the way Jeep claims it does. Most information is more based on owner's perceptions.

Most information points to the following:

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Snow - with a front wheel biased 60/40 split of torque​

Sport - with a rear wheel biased 40/60 split of torque

Sand/Mud - with up to 100% of torque available to the rear axle

Rock - with up to 100% of torque available to the rear axle​

As you noted in your post, the most "noticeable" affect of SPORT mode in higher shifting points (which tends to equate to faster take-off), the engagement of the rear wheels (more torque) and disengagement of the traction control. Many use that mode as it provides quicker acceleration than AUTO. It's also very effective when towing because it allows a more powerful take-off from standstill and allows the engine to stay in a higher RPM band when towing a heavy load.

I used to use SPORT mode a lot but now personally use SNOW mode more it has a similar 'power/torque' curve as SPORT but not the so-delayed shifting points which I don't care for.

I don't personally use SAND/MUD mode nor ROCK mode (I don't go off-roading)


Please see the following three items; one's a Jeep video and the other two are threads from this forum posted by forum member, @Array, that goes into more detail!

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Torque Split Uncovered​

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AD1/AD2/ADL Uncovered​

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Again, Welcome to the Forum!

 

In Sport mode on my TH, the traction control automatically engages unless/until I manually disable it. Maybe due to the factory tow package? That I don't know, but I assumed it was the same on all 4X4 versions.

 

I had the factory tow package and traction control always partially disengaged when putting in sport mode. The only way to fully disable traction control at low speeds is to hold the traction control button down for so many seconds , and since I don’t have my Cherokee anymore I can’t remember how long and don’t have the owners manual to reference 😜.

 

When all else fails refer to your Owner's Manual. It is actually really well written, cures insomnia.

 

Mine goes into partial disengaged TC in sport mode as well, as I use it quite often while towing, when I'm not in full manual shift mode...😎

 

@Flybynightcru is correct. Sport mode = TC off (I assume FCA's thought process was if you're going to be operating in performance mode, the driver doesn't want the computer engaging brake actuators and other controls automatically) Also, it's great for towing (esp. from a dead stop) and if you've got a pre-2018(?) Cherokee V6 without a factory-tow package it's a big help in compensating for the original non-tow 3.251 final drive.

 

Many thanks everyone.

 

Yep, full off is press and hold the button for 5 seconds, and only good under 20-25mph before it kicks back to "partial"...😎

 

The Owner's Manual has a really good explanation if you can understand it.