Jeep unveiled the 2019 Cherokee at the Detroit Motor Show this week. Despite being a mid-cycle refresh, the midsize SUV receives a significant makeover.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee's exterior has been redesigned to feature a fresh appearance that is more in line with the automaker's iconic design cues. Some of the midsize SUV's original components were restyled, specifically the front fascia.
Jeep has done away the Cherokee's original split lighting. The 2019 refresh now has both the bi-LED projector headlamps and the LED daylight running lamps in a more traditional position. There is also a revamped lightweight aluminum hood and redesigned dual LED fog lamps.
The all-new midsize SUV's rear was also resculpted to have a more fluid design. The taillamps have a thin, red LED light strip that connects the stop, turn and reverse signals while the new lightweight liftgate comes with an integrated light bar. Though the release handle has been positioned higher for the convenience of the owner, there is a hands-free liftgate that opens just by doing a kicking motion under the bumper. Cargo capacity has also been increased by over three inches.
Unlike the 2019 Cherokee's exterior, the interior remains largely unchanged. Nevertheless, the cabin still appears fresh and elegant. It benefits from Satin Chrome and Piano Black high-gloss accents on around the radio, air vent and gear shifter bezels with high-quality materials for the door panels, armrests and instrument panel.
The midsize SUV is equipped with the fourth-generation Uconnect infotainment system with either a 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen display as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Other available features include Nappa leather upholstery for the seats with heating, ventilation, massage and memory functions as well as a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee will be offered with three powertrains. The first is an all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It comes with stop-start technology for more efficient fuel economy and reduced emissions.
The midsize SUV is also available with a 3.2-liter V6 engine that yields 271 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain has a towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds. Meanwhile, the 2.4-liter engine option produces 180 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque.
The powertrains are mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and come with four-wheel-drive systems.
There are five available trims: Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Overland and Trailhawk.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee will arrive at dealers in the first quarter of this year. Pricing has not yet been announced.
