Jeep has released some photos of the new 2019 Jeep Cherokee that will debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2018.
The official statement accompanying the photos said:
“The most capable mid-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) boasts a new, authentic and more premium design, along with even more fuel-efficient powertrain options. Additional images and complete vehicle information will be available January 16, 2018, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit”.
Given that this is a mid-cycle refresh, we should not expect a lot of departure from the current vehicle, but there are some promising indications that we can expect the new Cherokee to have more (improved) visual as well as physical character.
Based on the statement and the photos, we see a Cherokee that is looking more like its larger sibling Grand Cherokee and its smaller cousin, the new Compass – which is a good thing. There was a lot of criticism of the nose and grille design of the Cherokee when introduced in 2014. Some called it radical while others said it was a bit ‘nondescript’ (we are not saying exactly what some said here) and lacking the iconic character reflective of its heritage.
The hood lines appear broader less chiseled at the nose with the seven-slat grille more reflective of the iconic Jeep look. We also note changes in the headlight and tail light designs and the license plate moved up to the tailgate from the bumper.
The hint of changes in the powertrain for 2019 in the statement suggests – perhaps – a 2.0L turbo or hybrid option as just shown in the new 2018 Wrangler. We also see what appears to be a larger central infotainment screen setup with very similar controls to the current model.
That’s about all we can tell you right now. We suspect that Jeep will be dropping hints of other features and specifications between now and the reveal on January 16. Stay tuned, we will share them with you as they become available.
