2019 Jeep Cherokee fully revealed – new 2.0L turbo

After revealing a few images and barely any details of the new 2019 Jeep Cherokee last month, Jeep has finally released the floodgates, providing us with a mega gallery and all the information you’ll ever need about the facelifted mid-size SUV.

The biggest change is that the controversial styling has given way to a more homogenous look, clearly inspired by the new Compass. Out goes the polarising dual-tier headlights, replaced by larger single-piece bi-LED units sitting where the LED daytime running lights once were.

While the raked seven-slot grille remains, the bumper has been redesigned for a more modern and sophisticated look, and incorporates LED fog lights. The wider bonnet is now made from aluminium, and Overland models receive new chrome tow hooks as standard.

At the rear, there’s a reprofiled rear bumper and new tail lights with a red LED light strip. The number plate recess has been moved up to the composite tailgate, with the handle to open the tailgate now easier to reach as a result. For even more convenience, there’s an optional kick-activated hands-free opening function, as well as a push-to-open fuel filler door and a capless filler.

The more off-road-biased Trailhawk retains its rugged look, with a more aggressive front fascia, steel skid plates, an anti-glare bonnet decal, red tow hooks and an increased approach angle, plus 17-inch alloy wheels shod in off-road tyres. All other models are available with a choice of five new wheel designs, including 19-inch polished rollers for the Overland model.

Inside, the new centre console gets piano black trim and satin chrome highlights, while the transmission tunnel has also been redesigned with a larger storage compartment. Meanwhile, lighter colours on the lower half of the interior enhance the feeling of space, and there are two new colour schemes on offer – Storm Blue on the Latitude and Latitude Plus models and Dark Sienna on the Overland. The boot is also over 75 mm wider, resulting in more than 760 litres of cargo space.

In terms of infotainment, the Uconnect system is available with either a 7.0- or an 8.4-inch touchscreen, the latter with or without navigation. All get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, and are available with SiriusXM satellite radio, emergency and assistance services and a Send & Go function to push the destination directly to the navigation system before setting off.

Safety-wise, the Cherokee retains ParkSense parking assist, all-speed Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus, Forward Collision Warning-Plus, LaneSense lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic detection and eight standard airbags.

Power comes from a new 2.0 litre turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 270 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Funnily enough, unlike on the new Wrangler, there’s no eTorque mild hybrid system offered here, but you do get automatic engine stop/start.

The standard 2.4 litre naturally-aspirated Tigershark mill gains MultiAir2 electro-hydraulic variable valve timing and lift to boost fuel efficiency by 7.5%; a new intake design also reduces noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The 271 hp/324 Nm 3.2 litre Pentastar V6 has been retained as well, while the standard nine-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission has updated software for improved drivability.

The rest of the Cherokee remains mostly unchanged, retaining front MacPherson and rear multilink suspension, electronic power steering and a choice of three four-wheel drive systems. The Active Drive I permanent system features a new rear-drive module that is nearly 7.7 kg lighter and 50% less low-speed system drag torque, improving fuel economy.

The Active Drive II part-time system on the Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited and Overland models has been recalibrated and provides a 25 mm ride height increase, while the Trailhawk models retain the Active Drive Lock rear differential for increased low-speed traction in severe off-road conditions.

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