When the Jeep® brand launched the Cherokee (KL), there was a lot of discussions, whether the front-wheel-drive based SUV would live up to the Cherokee name. So when the 2014 Moab Easter Jeep Safari was announced, Mopar and Jeep decided to build the most extreme off-road version of the new Cherokee, called the Cherokee Dakar Concept.
The Silver Steel Satin Gloss exterior skin was strikingly set off with prototype Flame Red graphics that encircled the window and wrap around the black hood graphic. The Cherokee Trailhawk’s 17-inch polished Satin clear coat wheels featured two large Flame Red pockets, with the Cherokee nameplate, also changed to a Flame Red hue.
Front-end features were enhanced by two prototype Flame Red inserts on the traditional Jeep seven-slot grille, as well as through a prototype lower fascia trim. The Cherokee Dakar was fortified for off-road action, equipped with Jeep Performance Parts rock rails, an oil pan skid plate, front suspension skid plate, two-piece fuel tank, and underbody skid plates.
Cherokee Dakar’s wheel openings were modified in order to accommodate larger 33-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain tires. The rough-and-ready look was also enhanced with a prototype Jeep Performance Parts lift kit and additional suspension modifications. Prototype wider fender flares with riveted bolts gave a tougher appearance and also accommodate the wider track and larger tires. A prototype rear fascia allowed for an even more aggressive departure angle and enhances the higher ride height. The Cherokee Dakar featured a crawl ratio of 48:1, and an estimated approach and departure angles are 32 and 39 degrees, respectively.
Inside, prototype Katzkin leather black seats with “Machined Gunmetal” inserts were heightened with Header Red stitching, which could also be found on the steering wheel, armrest and shift boot. Flame Red insert accent bezels surround the 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system. Accessories showcased from the Mopar catalog included all-weather floor mats, bright door-sill guards with the Cherokee logo, a cargo tray for storage, and the JCMS with the Trailhawk bag, as well as the prototype Moab off-road bag.
2014 Jeep® Cherokee Dakar Concept Image Gallery:
