Jeep really wants the new Cherokee to be on your shopping list, and part of that sales pitch is the impression that its small SUV is ready for adventure. But, the lack of Trail Rated (Jeep’s marketing parlance, not ours) models since the iconic nameplate returned earlier this year has been notable. That changed today.
On Monday, Jeep confirmed that the Cherokee Trailhawk is coming back and provided the first glimpse of its latest model to offer “greater off-road capability.”
Last year, Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf told us that the new Jeep Cherokee would still be capable of off-road. To date, this is a promise that has yet to be fulfilled. But Broderdorf said it will take time to introduce additional models of hybrid-only crossovers. In fact.
The Cherokee Trailhawk features a revised front fascia with red tow hooks. Apart from the fact that the main bumper is not body coloured, it’s hard to see much else from the tight shot, but we would hope that the approach (and departure) angles have been improved compared to the road-oriented models on sale today. Smaller wheels and larger rubber would be appropriate and expected.
Don’t expect much change in the powertrain. Today, the Cherokee is offered only with a 1.6-liter turbo-four hybrid powertrain with 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque sent to all four wheels via an e-CVT. The two-speed transfer case is likely out of the picture, but a rear locker may be onboard for the Trailhawk model. The additional off-road drive modes will definitely be along for the ride.
Jeep hasn’t said anything other than releasing a single teaser image, noting that the automaker is gearing up for more off-road capability, and more details will come later.
Not a moment too soon, as the automaker is a little lost in the woods and fans are hoping it can find the mark again.
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