All new Jeep® Cherokee launched in UAE

The result of a US$ 1.7 billion development programme, the new Cherokee, available in Sport and Limited Edition versions, has truly been designed for the Middle East market with such features as its innovative hybrid cooling system and special ABS braking sensors calibrated for off-road driving.

The hybrid cooling system combines engine-driven and electric fans to produce best-in-class engine cooling and passenger compartment comfort while operating more quietly than an engine-driven fan alone when cooling demand is low as in slow desert driving.

The enhanced three-channel ABS system is similar to the one used in the Grand Cherokee and includes subtle refinements that provide for quieter operation and less pedal pulsing.

For off-road use, when the vehicle is operated in four-wheel-drive Low, the system allows some wheel lock-up during hard braking on slippery surfaces to improve stopping power.

New active electrically powered wheel sensors also minimises brake lock-up at low speeds. This is particularly important when descending steep desert dunes.

The all-new Jeep Cherokee was created to expand the strength of the line-up of the formidable Jeep brand that has led all 4x4 vehicles during its 60-year history. Not just for traditional Jeep customers, the Cherokee is also ideal for a new generation of 4x4 buyers who want a combination of on-road refinement and off-road ruggedness. True to the heritage and reputation of the Jeep brand, Cherokee is a 'can do' vehicle that stands far apart from the new generation of less capable 'make do' 4x4s on the market. With the new Cherokee, drivers can definitely 'Do More' on an off-road.

"The all-new Jeep Cherokee stands alone because it combines the legendary Jeep capability that our customers have come to expect with superior on-road refinement," said Craig Hardie, Sales and Marketing Manager, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge, Trading Enterprises, a member of the Al Futtaim Group of Companies. "Now Cherokee customers can have all the capability of a true Jeep combined with superb on-road manners."

The trademark seven-slot grille and round headlamps have been incorporated into the design of the new Cherokee, bringing a modern look for the trademark Jeep "face". The clearly recognisable styling cues maintain the distinct features of the Jeep brand, which owners have come to love.

Building on themes illustrated by the Dakar and Jeepster concept vehicles, Cherokee has short front and rear overhangs for excellent off-road capability, and its upright profile allows efficient space utilisation and command-of-the-road seating.

Powerful engines with ample low-end torque are a Jeep brand hallmark, and two new power units provide those characteristics in the new Cherokee. An all-new 3.7-litre V-6 PowerTech petrol engine will be available in the vehicle at launch. A new four-cylinder 2.4-litre PowerTech petrol engine will be available in the Middle East early next year.

The secret to Cherokee's dual capabilities - both on and off-road - is an all-new Jeep-engineered independent front suspension system combined with an all-new rack and pinion steering system.

A choice of two proven Jeep four-wheel-drive systems - Command-Trac® part-time four-wheel drive and Selec-Trac® full-time four-wheel drive - maintain the unrivalled Jeep off-road ability. A standard limited slip Trac-Lok rear differential assists the progress of Cherokee in slippery conditions.

The all-new 2002 Jeep Cherokee was designed from the ground up to provide the Jeep brand's hallmark off-road capability, as well as exceptional on-road ride and handling. Among its competitors, only Cherokee provides the best of both roads.

"The Jeep Cherokee truly is the best of both roads, no matter where you take it," said Allan Hardie, General Manager of Abu Dhabi headquartered Al Jallaf Trading. "Cherokee can take on any trail that any other Jeep can handle. But what this capability means to everyday drivers is the confidence of knowing you're behind the wheel of a tough, rugged, durable vehicle that can handle just about anything - on-road or off."

Cherokee combines excellent ride and handling and precise steering control with the Jeep legendary off-road capabilities, tested on the Rubicon Trail, the most difficult off-road trek in the USA. Cherokee's 20cm front and rear suspension travel ensures hallmark off-road performance. Along with a 24.3 breakover angle, Cherokee's short front and rear overhangs produce high angles of approach (best-in-class 38 degrees) and departure (32.4 degrees).

For quick and easy access to the cargo area, Cherokee features a patented single-action swing gate / flipper glass system. A unique pull-type latch mechanism makes the opening of the flipper glass window and swing gate a simple, one-motion operation, versus competitors' multiple steps. Pulling the release handle performs both operations, as the latch includes a system to separate the two functions. Pressing the cargo door button on the keyless entry transmitter or turning the key in the swing gate lock also opens the flipper glass window, leaving the swing gate securely closed.

For increased interior cargo space, the full-size spare tyre is mounted to the rear tailgate on a special swing gate mechanism. The gate is well balanced so that it will pen and close with ease. For added visibility and safety, the spare tyre does not obstruct the rear window.

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