The real game changer for Jeep’s overseas sales will be the upcoming B-segment Renegade, but it won’t hit UK shores for another year. In the meantime, Jeep is preparing for the debut of another important model, the new Cherokee, for which it just announced pricing as order books open this week, ahead of a market launch in June.
In Britain, the oddly styled 2014 Cherokee will start from £25,495 OTR (equal to US$43,000) for the front-wheel drive 2.0-liter Longitude 140 6-speed climbing to £35,695 (equal to US$60,300) for the 2.0 Limited 170 Automatic 4X4.
Initial engine options are limited to a 2.0-liter MultiJet turbo diesel offered in two states of tune delivering 140bhp or 170bhp connected to either a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic, but later this year, Jeep will add a 3.2-liter V6 petrol unit to the range, with pricing to be announced.
Buyers can pick from three trim grades named Longitude, Longidtude+ and Limited, with standard features including LED taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, Bluetooth, DAB radio, leather-wrapped steering wheel and rear park assist.
The Longitude+ adds an infotainment system with an 8.4-inch screen, navigation and nine speakers with Alpine sub-woofer.
Moving up to the Limited gets you several more features such as BiXenon headlamps, power tailgate, 18-inch wheels, Nappa leather seats, eight-way power driver’s seat, park assist with back-up camera, automatic headlights and rain sensors, Wireless Phone Charging pad, and keyless Enter ‘n’ Go.
The upcoming 3.2-liter V6 will be offered in an exclusive trail-rated Trailhawk edition with a different look, plus a suspension lift and Jeep’s Active Drive Lock system.
By John Halas
On the road pricing (OTR):
Cherokee 2.0 Longitude 140 6 Speed Manual FWD £25,495
Cherokee 2.0 Longitude 140 6 Speed Manual 4X4 £27,495
Cherokee 2.0 Longitude 170 Automatic 4X4 £29,995
Cherokee 2.0 Longitude Plus 140 6 Speed Manual FWD £27,695
Cherokee 2.0 Longitude Plus 140 6 Speed 4X4 £29,695
Cherokee 2.0 Longitude Plus 170 Automatic 4X4 £32,195
Cherokee 2.0 Limited 140 6 Speed Manual FWD £31,195
Cherokee 2.0 Limited 140 6 Speed Manual 4X4 £33,195
Cherokee 2.0 Limited 170 Automatic 4X4 £35,695
PHOTO GALLERY