Jeep Cherokee

Introduction

Jeep, the wholly owned subsidiary of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles was incepted in the year 1941. The American all-terrain expertise were known for producing military vehicles and now the company is widely acclaimed for its high end off-roader and 4X4 beasts. Jeep is a name which actually represents the rugged models since many decades. The brand started manufacturing civilian models in 1945 and came out shining with the Jeep Cherokee in 1974. The latest facelift was unveiled for the first time at the 2013 New York International Auto Show and created a huge uproar in the automobile market. Now, the Jeep is quite enthusiastic to enter Cherokee in Malaysian market with same zeal.

Engine, mileage and variants

Jeep Cherokee comes to Malaysia in two vivid trim levels namely Longitude and Trailhawk. The off-roader is powered by the contemporary 2.4-litre Tigershark I4 and 3.2-litre Pentastar V6, and a 2.0-litre turbo diesel potent powerhouse beneath the hood. The Cherokee churns out maximum power range of 174 hp to 270 hp between 6400 rpm to 6500 rpm. The American car maker also offers the car with a 350 Nm torque machine to challenge the rugged off-road tracks. Owing to its 9-speed transmission mated with the powerhouse of the car allows it to hit 0-100 kmph in 9.5 seconds, and reaches out to a top speed of 180 kmph. The Cherokee is introduced with latest gaining economies from the start/stop technology which allows the vehicle to deliver a decent mileage of 10.4 kmpl.

Exterior

Cherokee is designed with the traditional rugged look along with the elegance of a luxury SUV. The front fascia of the car features a chrome tinted wide radiator grille which also enhances the performance by drawing ample air to the engine bay. The car features sleekly designed high intensity head lamps incorporated with LED daytime lights that enhances the visibility along with the elegance of the car. Apart from this the Cherokee has a broad wheel arch and reinforced front bumpers, which imparts an aggressive persona to the front. The body dimensions of the Cherokee measures out to be 4622 mm X 1859 -1902 mm X 1688- 1722 mm (L X W X H), which suits nicely to the masculine silhouette of the car. Besides this, the alloy sizes of 17 and 18-inch are wrapped by all season tyre, with standard size of 225/55 R18.

Interior

Climb up the Jeep Cherokee and rejuvenate your senses with luxury. Cherokee on the inside is contrary to its off roader image on the outside. The Cherokee is meticulously crafted with comfort and generous trims that spreads an aura of plushness all around. The leather upholstered sports seats of the car has comfort adjustment parameters which allows the seats to alter its position automatically. The off-roader becomes a treat for the audiophile owing to the Alpine Premium sound system implanted to it. The central console embedded with Hi-resolution 8.4-inch touch screen comprises navigation system and audio controls that takes the Cherokee to another level of ergonomics. With ample space for the occupants, the Cherokee comes with a decent boot space of 696-litres, thus settling your load of luggage.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous

Jeep Cherokee can be cruised around all tough terrains without being formidable of the safety as the American maker has loaded the off-roader with many safety technologies. The Cherokee is employed with efficient disc brakes coupled with the anti-lock braking system that eliminates skidding by preventing the wheel lock condition during instant braking. The car also features Blind Spot Monitoring system which alerts the driver if there is any vehicle propelling in the blind spot area. Apart from it the ParkView rear backup camera with a display unit affixed to the centre allows it to escape from tight parking lots. The car also features forward collision warning alerts if there is any obstacle in the direction of propulsion.

Verdict

Jeep Cherokee can be summed up as well-crafted marvel in exterior loaded with impressively perceptible interior and purely controlled ride. The vehicle will surely prove to be a strong contender in the off roading segment.