Jeep Cherokee launch delayed to ensure quality, report says
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Jeep is pushing back production of the much-anticipated return of the Cherokee SUV, Automotive News reports.
Originally scheduled to start churning out vehicles before summer, the assembly line in Toledo, Ohio, is getting a few finishing touches to ensure that the vehicle’s quality is up to snuff, the company says.
Pre-production builds began several months ago, photos of which were leaked before the compact crossover was officially unveiled at the New York Auto Show in March.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Chrysler’s sales chief says the Cherokee should start hitting showrooms in the fall.
But Automotive News also cites sources that say the Cherokee’s 9-speed automatic transmission is also getting some last-minute tweaks. The high-tech unit promises to be the first for a production car.
It’ll be available with either a 184 hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder or 271 hp 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine, and several all-wheel-drive systems. Top of the line models, including the extra sporty Cherokee Trailhawk, will come with Jeep’s Trail-Rated designation.