Jeep unveiled its all-new Cherokee at the Detroit Motor Show this week, following a sneak peak of the handsome newcomer at the end of last year.

Back in 2013, Jeep raised a few eyebrows when it launched the curiously-styled fifth generation of the Cherokee, with a front end that made it look a bit like a shark hunting for prey. The risky design tactic played out in Jeep’s favour, with the Cherokee enjoying healthy sales.

Now, five years later, Jeep has toned things down somewhat, giving the new Cherokee a more suave front-end. The mid-size SUV has undergone an extensive set of nips and tucks all-round, giving it a dapper smart-casual look fit for any on- or off-road party. The interior benefits from fresh splashes of elegance while retaining its practicality.

New 2.0 engine

An all-new 2.0-litre direct-injection turbocharged inline four-cylinder powerplant has been introduced as one of the three engine offerings, offering better performance and efficiency. Jeep claims the new motor is “one of the most technologically advanced engines in the automotive industry,” and it’s offered alongside the 3.2-litre Pentastar V-6 and 2.4-litre PZEV Multiair2 Tigershark I-4.

The nine-speed automatic gearbox benefits from improved software, which should rectify the sometimes clunky gear-shifting behaviour of the outgoing model, and can be mated with any of the three engine choices.

Good connections

The new 2019 Jeep Cherokee receives the latest Uconnect systems, delivering communication, entertainment and navigation features and including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the choice of 7 – or 8.4-inch touchscreens with pinch-and-zoom capability. Backseat passengers will be pleased about the presence of a USB port.

Sure-footed capability

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee offers a choice of three 4×4 systems: Jeep Active Drive I, Jeep Active Drive II and Jeep Active Drive Lock, providing a high level of capability in all weather conditions. Rear-axle disconnect technology results in reduced energy loss when 4×4 capability isn't needed and should save a bit of fuel.

The new 2019 Jeep Cherokee will be introduced in Europe in the second half of 2018. South African availability has not yet been confirmed.

Further Reading

2018 Jeep Wrangler Revealed

6 High-Performance SUVs Coming to SA in 2018

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk – The Fastest Jeep Yet

All-New Jeep Compass Revealed

Jeep Cherokee (2014) Review

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