SUV is packed with promise
Jeep also promise a distinctive, high quality and efficient package which introduces smart new technology to the mid-size SUV segment to make it one of the most user-friendly cars in its class.
Costing between €36,000 and €50,900, the range will be powered by a choice of 140 bhp and 170 bhp 2.0-litre MultiJet II turbo-diesel engine.
The front-wheel drive 140 bhp manual version is capable of 5.3 l/100 km on the combined cycle and emits just 139 g/km of CO2, placing it in Tax Band B2 (€280 per annum) while the top-of-the range 4X4 version, which is equipped with a class-first nine-speed automatic transmission, falls into Tax Band C (€390 pa) with emissions of 154 g/km and fuel economy figure of 5.8 l/100km.
The Cherokee features new suspension and that, combined with a very rigid bodyshell, makes it comfortable, refined and enjoyable to drive. The Jeep Active Drive I four-wheel drive system automatically switches between front and all-wheel drive when required and Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system offers up to five different four-wheel drive modes.
Jeep claim that the new Cherokee has a stylish, well-equipped interior that exudes premium craftsmanship. It has figure-hugging front seats and rear seats that fold and recline as well as sliding backwards and forwards to maximise either leg room or boot space.
Each model features a Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) screen in the instrument cluster available in either monochrome or colour. In the centre console there’s a choice of either a 5.0-inch colour touch-screen for the Uconnect infotainment system or, in another first for the class, a spectacular 8.4-inch version.
From entry level, the Cherokee will come as standard with cruise control, parking sensors and dual-zone air-conditioning. Options include the full-length CommandView sun roof and a charging pad that can replenish compatible smart phones without the need to plug them in.
Cherokee has already been awarded five stars by EuroNCAP and has more than 70 available safety features, including Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation and ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist.
Jeep maintains that when it came to designing the all-new Cherokee, the company had to be mindful they were recreating a legend.
“The new car had to remain true to the Jeep brand and DNA, yet move the story on with an efficient but capable looking form that would age as gracefully as its predecessors.
“The result is a car with a smooth and sophisticated appearance that nonetheless appears rugged and capable, with aggressive wheel-to-body proportions, a powerful stance and commanding road presence,” the company says.
Mark Allen, head of Jeep Design, insists the objective with the Cherokee was to convey visually that this is an all-new Jeep while still communicating legendary best-in-class capability.
The Cherokee will be is offered in two versions, Longitude and Limited, and we will have more later this month when we get to drive it.
