Jeep Cherokee joins Altitude trim line

Wed, 22 Jan 2014

Jeep fans spoke up last year by naming the Altitude trim level, and the automaker rewarded them with an assortment of cool Jeeps sporting a sinister, blacked-out appearance. Joining the ranks of Jeep models offering an Altitude trim level is the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, and this might be the best looking of the new Cherokees – including the Trailhawk.

Like the previous versions of this model, the 2014 Cherokee Altitude adds black wheels and exterior trim and molding, and it's only offered in four colors: black, silver, white and granite (shown above). You definitely have to love the look of the black accents since the Altitude raises the Cherokee's price by $2,000 to a starting MSRP of $24,995 (not including destination). Jeep says that the 2014 Cherokee Altitude is a limited-edition model, but there is no mention of any specific production figures.

Joining the new Cherokee Altitude are the updated versions of the Grand Cherokee Altitude and Wrangler Altitude with similar limited color combinations and pricier MSRPs starting at $35,290 and $31,595, respectively. These three new Altitude models will go on sale this spring joining the Compass Altitude and Patriot Altitude, which are on sale now. Scroll down for more info on the updated 2014 Jeep Altitude lineup.

Popular Jeep® Altitude Models Return For 2014

-2014 Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler debut special-edition Altitude models
-New Jeep Altitude models feature unique "blacked out" exteriors with distinct, aggressive flair
-Available for first time on Cherokee, and returning for Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, the new models join the 2014 Jeep Compass and Patriot Altitude models that are in dealerships now
-New special-edition Altitude models to arrive in Jeep showrooms this spring

January 22, 2014 , Houston - New special-edition 'Altitude' models of the 2014 Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler were introduced this morning at the Houston Auto Show. Featuring unique "blacked-out" exteriors with a distinct and aggressive flair, the vehicles arrive in Jeep showrooms this spring – thanks to a positive consumer response from earlier Jeep Altitude models.

Two years ago, Jeep introduced a production-intent concept Grand Cherokee at the Houston Auto Show, and connected with customers to name the model. More than 100,000 entries were submitted by Jeep enthusiasts, with 'Altitude' emerging as the winning vehicle name. The brand then created a limited run of Altitude models across the Jeep lineup.

"The unique 'blacked-out' theme of the Jeep Altitude models resonated so well with consumers two years ago that it makes perfect sense to bring them back now, particularly since we have new versions of the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee," said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "What began as a production-intent concept and naming contest generated significant buzz and evolved into a lineup of special-edition Jeep vehicles that appeal to many consumers – especially those wanting a very distinct, aggressive and edgy look."

The new, special-edition 2014 Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler Altitude models will arrive in Jeep showrooms this spring. Jeep Compass Altitude and Jeep Patriot Altitude models are available now.

2014 Jeep Cherokee Altitude

Based on the Latitude model, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Altitude is available in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations powered by either the 2.4-liter MultiAir®2 Tigershark I-4 engine with up to 31 mpg, or the 3.2-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers best-in-class 271 horsepower and towing capabilities of 4,500 lbs. Both engines are mated to the mid-size SUV segment-exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission.

The Jeep Cherokee Altitude features a stealth-like appearance with gloss black grille surrounds, roof rails, front fascia lower applique and badging and a black daylight opening (DLO). Eighteen-inch gloss black painted aluminum wheels and a black interior complete the look.

The limited-edition 2014 Jeep Cherokee Altitude is available in four exterior colors: Brilliant Black Crystal Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat and Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat.

The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2014 Cherokee Altitude models is $24,995 for 4x2 models and $26,995 for 4x4 models (plus $995 destination).

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude is based on the Laredo model and is available as a 4x2 or 4x4. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine produces 290 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, and is mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering up to 25 miles per gallon highway.

Special exterior design cues include gloss black bezel inserts for the front grille, fog lamp bezels, lower front fascia applique, badging, rear step pad surround and 20-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels. Other unique exterior changes include halogen headlamps with black bezels, grey satin gloss tail lamp bezels, platinum chrome grille texture, bright dual exhaust tips, lower body-color fascias, wheel flares and side cladding, a body color antenna and an SRT-style roof rail.

The interior features black Capri leather seats with perforated suede inserts and black stitching, a leather wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, standard 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen and power sunroof. The Security and Convenience Group is also standard and includes remote start, auto-dimming rear view mirror, security alarm, 115 volt outlet, universal garage door opener, cargo cover, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power liftgate, ParkView back-up camera and ParkSense rear back-up sensors.

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude is available in Billet Silver, Bright White, Brilliant Black Metallic Coat, Deep Cherry, Granite Crystal and Maximum Steel.

The U.S. MSRP for the 2014 Grand Cherokee is $35,290 for 4x2 models and $37,290 for 4x4 (plus $995 destination).

2014 Jeep Wrangler Altitude

Based on the Sahara model, the 2014 Jeep Wrangler Altitude's exterior highlights include a matte black grille with gloss black throats, head lamp rings and Jeep badge, gloss black front and rear bumper appliques and 18-inch seven-spoke aluminum wheels, a standard body color Freedom Top and matte black "WRANGLER" decal on the hood. The Dual Top with premium Sunrider soft top is optional.

Inside, the Jeep Wrangler Altitude features standard black leather seats with black stitching, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with black painted spokes and black stitching, black finish hex bolts and black painted vent rings and door and instrument panel grab handles. The Wrangler Connectivity Group is also included.

Available in two-door and Unlimited four-door models, the Wrangler Altitude is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Mated to a standard six-speed manual or available five-speed automatic transmission, Wrangler Altitude employs a Command Trac transfer case with 2.72:1 low range.

The 2014 Jeep Wrangler Altitude is available in Amp'd, Black, Granite Crystal and Hydro Blue. U.S. MSRP is $31,595 for Wrangler two-door models and $35,395 for Wrangler Unlimited models (plus $995 destination).

By Jeffrey N. Ross