What's the news?
Jeep has issued a simple, single-line notification that it will show off a new version of the Cherokee medium-sized SUV at the Detroit motor show in January. The release reads "the most capable mid-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) boasts a new, authentic and premium design, along with fuel-efficient powertrain options."
Doesn't tell us a lot, really, but the photo issued tells us rather more - that the Cherokee's front styling is being made a little softer and less controversial, hopefully to allow it to appeal to a broader customer base. Fabulously described by Paul Healy (formerly of this parish) as looking like 'Leonardo DiCaprio squinting' the current Cherokee has been criticised as much as praised for its polarising styling. This updated version, which features larger main beam headlights and the elimination of the double-deck lighting signature, looks cleaner, simpler, and more conventional which is either a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your own taste.
As for other changes, we simply don't know. The reference to powertrains likely means that the Cherokee will get the 2.2-litre 210hp diesel engine as used by the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Giulia, and it will also very probably get the new 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine, with its mild-hybrid assistance, that has already been seen in the new Jeep Wrangler.
As for any cabin upgrades (which, to be honest, are rather sorely needed) we simply don't know, but it's probably a safe bet to expect at the very least an updated infotainment system.
Will these styling and mechanical updates make the Cherokee more appealing to Irish customers? Well, they could hardly make it any worse - a mere three Cherokees have been sold or registered in Ireland in 2017, a fact which is most likely down to its relatively lofty €48k price tag. Make that a bit smaller, and it would probably do more for Irish sales than any technical updates.
We'll find out more on January 16th.