Successful as it has been, the Jeep Cherokee has nonetheless come in for criticism for its polarizing looks. The new 2019 Jeep Cherokee rolled out this week for visitors at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit promises to put an end to all that.
Sporting a new design strong on elegance and flashing high-end appeal, the 2019 Cherokee has had its front fascia and hood redesigned and now sports LED headlights and daytime running lights incorporated in a single element. The profile of the rear section has also been revisited. In addition, a remodeled liftgate made of lightweight composite material (and with available hands-free power operation) and five new styles for the wheels (which are 19 inches in diameter on the Overland version) have been added to the product offering. Inside, new design elements include satin chrome and piano black accents.
Buyers can also expect increased levels of comfort and convenience in the cabin, with the addition for example of a redesigned centre console, more attractive colour layouts and an available dual-pane sunroof. Rear cargo space has been increased and now provides 764 litres of room, and the storage spaces are more practically arrayed.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee has evolved considerably on the mechanical front as well. In addition to the 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir engine (180 hp) with improved air intake and the Pentastar V6 (272 hp) that allows the Cherokee to pull up to 4,500 lbs, an all-new 2.0L direct-injection turbo engine is being offered as well; it delivers 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. All three also feature stop/start technology for improved fuel economy and are accompanied by a reprogrammed 9-speed automatic transmission.
The all-wheel drive systems of the Jeep Cherokee have been upgraded as well. Most notably, the new Jeep Active Drive 1 is equipped with a next-generation rear-wheel drive module that lightens the vehicle and reduces fuel consumption.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee comes equipped with the fourth-generation Uconnect system, which starts more quickly, uses a more powerful processor and displays in high resolution. Buyers can choose between a 5.7-inch, 7.0-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreen; the larger two are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. Available are hands-free calling and texting, streaming audio via Bluetooth and a navigation system.
Once again offered in five different versions (Sport, North, Limited, Overland and Trailhawk, designated “Trail Rated”), the 2019 Jeep Cherokee will arrive at dealerships during the first quarter of 2018.
