With the mid-size SUV segment witnessing a growth other segments can only dream of, every manufacturer wants a piece of this coveted pie.
It’s easy for manufacturers to raise up a car-platform and give it all-wheel-drive. However, when a hardcore off-road manufacturer like Jeep makes an appearance on the scene by bringing back a name like Cherokee; you just know things are about to get very interesting.
Jeep have released more details about their new Cherokee at the New York International Auto Show. The new compact SUV brings in all the essential Jeep off-road cred while being thoroughly modern in its approach when it comes to safety and efficiency. With legendary Jeep 4×4 capability and a segment-first nine-speed automatic transmission and industry-first rear-axle disconnect, the new Cherokee offers superior performance and handling both on and off the road in all weather conditions. The new box aims to deliver seamless power with imperceptible gear shifts and unmatched fuel economy. Owners also get a choice of Active Drive packages, including a Drive Lock package with a locking rear differential option, made for the most demanding conditions. The top-end Trailhawk variant offers incredible off-road ability for a compact SUV: an approach angle of 29.8 degrees, a departure angle of 32.1 degrees and a ramp breakover angle of 23.3 degrees. These are no doubt helped by the high 220mm of ground clearance.
Powering the new Cherokee will be FIAT’s 186 PS 2.4-litre inline-4 Tigershark petrol engine and Chrysler’s new 274 PS 3.2-litre V6 Pentastar. In India, we expect the new Cherokee to be powered by a new version of FIAT’s 2.0-litre MultiJet diesel with either 160 PS or 180 PS.
