All-new 2019 Jeep Cherokee

It wasn't until towards the end of 2013 that Jeep saw fit to revive the Cherokee nameplate to replace the Jeep Liberty, and what was then an all-new mid-size SUV crossover fitted in very nicely into the family of Jeep SUVs as a kind of little brother to the mighty Grand Cherokee. The Jeep signature seven-slot grill and squared fenders were all there, but not everyone was totally convinced about the Cherokee's front fascia. It certainly was distinctive, but now the Jeep Cherokee has had a refresh for the 2019 model year so let's see what's going on.

Revised exterior styling

It's impossible to ignore the fact there's a decidedly baby Grand Cherokee look about the Cherokee, and now it's probably more like its bigger brother than before. The Cherokee now has what could probably be described as a more cohesive design that's as evident in the bodywork as it is in the interior. The mildly controversial separated lighting of the previous model that gave it a slightly sleepy look at the front has now vanished. Daytime running lights are now integrated into the headlights, which are modern LEDs as standard, and now and sit exactly where headlights really ought to be located. When viewed from either the side or the rear the Cherokee looks like the majority of midsize crossovers, but to be honest, that's the way the overwhelming majority of consumers like it.

Engines and performance

Under the hood of the new, improved Jeep Cherokee is a new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine putting out 270 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. This new engine complements a lineup that still contains the 271 horsepower, 3.2-litre Pentastar V-6 and the standard four-cylinder 2.4-litre Tigershark that develops a healthy 180 horsepower. All three engines come mated to a refreshed version of the manufacturer's nine-speed automatic transmission, which sends the power to either the front or all four wheels depending on your choice of drivetrain.

Trim levels

There are now six different trim levels of Jeep Cherokee to choose from with the 2019 model year, which start with the Cherokee Sport and then go to the North, the Limited, the Trailhawk, the Trailhawk Elite and finally the top of the range Cherokee Overland.

Off-road capability

There are no less than three different all-wheel drive systems for the 2019 Cherokee, but the most serious option for off-road capability is Active-Drive Lock, which features a genuine two-speed transfer case and an electronically activated mechanical rear differential lock. The diff lock makes sure both of the tires on the rear axle are turning regardless of the surface they're being asked to operate on, so this is the system to choose for proper off-roading in your new Cherokee.

To get behind the wheel of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee and or to schedule a test drive, don't hesitate to contact us here at Scarborotown Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM today.