For motorists around America, life frequently casts a shadow over general wellbeing when out of nowhere, a stray Jeep Cherokee rounds the corner and assaults the eyes without any prior warning or post-trauma apology. A front end smushed to look like a hammerhead shark-Jeep's way of trying to modernize the SUV so it fits in with the rest of the edgy designs on sale-didn't always sit well with casual art critics combing the dealership lots in search of a new whip, so Jeep has wisely decided to change it up.
The first thing to go will be its thin lights, which will be replaced with something that bears a closer resemblance to the Compass or Grand Cherokee. However, The Truth About Cars has uncovered that the sheetmetal won't be the only thing to be changed by Jeep. New for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee will be an engine taken right from the new Wrangler. Yep, we're talking about the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque in the Wrangler with the help of a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This means the Cherokee will get nice juicy turbocharged torque even when RPMs are low.
Sitting at the top of the range, the turbocharged power plant will provide almost exactly the same amount of horsepower as the 3.2-liter V6 it replaces while lending 56 lb-ft of extra torque over the old unit. Those who inexplicably want the Cherokee for its looks can opt for the same 2.6-liter four-banger that's currently available in the lineup where it'll continue to make 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The facelift and new engine should further bolster Jeep's numbers with what will hopefully become an attractive new SUV that will soak up sales in this highly competitive segment.
FCA is most in its element sharing technology across its lineup in such a way that it saves the most money without diluting the product enough to cut into sales numbers. Sales, however, have been good for the Cherokee despite its mug. This update will likely help resurge the natural slowing of sales that happens with age. Let's just pray they get the front end right this time.
