After many appearances in the prototype guise, the updated 2019 Jeep Cherokee is here. The refreshed SUV will make its official debut at the 2018 Detroit Motor Show in January next year.
The Toledo-based carmaker says the new Cherokee “boasts of a new, authentic and more premium design, along with even more fuel-efficient powertrain options”. The good news is, the Cherokee drops the ugly-looking headlights for Compass inspired units making it look more modern and a proper Jeep. The characteristic seven-slat vertical grille is present while the bumper is now simple and better looking than before.
The Compass inspiration continues at the rear as well. The taillights get a new lighting signature and now looks more modern. The licence plate moves upward to the tailgate while the bumper gets large bash plates with chrome surround to add a bit of character. The overall silhouette is retained with body cladding, roof rails and all the necessary creases. But the new alloys and subtle other revisions keep the Cherokee looking fresh.
On the inside, there haven’t been many changes apart from the dual tone treatment. The funky yet functional cabin is retained. The large infotainment screen sitting atop the dashboard might get additional features but that hasn’t been confirmed yet.
As far as powertrain is concerned, there will a range of options to choose from. No official word is available as yet, but the new Cherokee is expected to receive a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder from the new Wrangler. The nine-speed automatic transmission from the smaller Renegade might also be carried over. The 2.4-litre four-cylinder and the 3.2-litre V6 from the current range will also be retained along with the characteristic four-wheel-drive system. More details of the powertrain will be revealed at the launch.
The Cherokee was the second highest selling car for Jeep. After the 2014 update, this is the first major overhaul for the SUV. The 2019 Cherokee gives the Jeep line-up an overall refresh for the next year.
Stay tuned to CarWale for more updates on the upcoming cars and the 2018 Detroit Motor Show.