Dakar – The Ultimate Cherokee?

Jeep introduced several prototype vehicles for the annual Easter Jeep Safari at Moab, UT. The Jeep Cherokee Dakar may not be a JK, but this is the most modified Cherokee out there, currently. While Mopar says the lift kit isn’t available, let’s see what could be done if someone were to brave a warranty void and create the ultimate “KL” chassis.

The first things to really catch your eyes are the 33-inch BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires on 17-inch Trailhawk wheels.

It is further enhanced by a prototype Jeep Performance Parts lift kit that lifts the KL and gives it departure angles of 32 degrees front and 39 degrees rear. Departure angles are aided by prototype front and rear bumper covers.

Protecting the undercarraige of the KL are a set of Jeep Performance Parts Rock Rails, oil pan skip plate, front skid plate, and fuel tank/underbody skid plates.

Because the tires are wider, a set of prototype wide fender flares are held on by riveted bolts.

The crawl ratio of the Cherokee Dakar is 48:1, which will get it most anywhere it needs, save for the most demanding hill angles. In the Dakar Rally, you don’t really crawl much, but the low ratio is helpful over the dunes of South America … though, this one may never see them.

The interior features black Katzkin leather seats with Machined Gunmetal Inserts and Header Red stitching. That stitching is also on the steering wheel, armrest, and shift boot. The Jeep Cherokee Dakar also includes all-weather floor mats, bright door-sill guards, cargo tray, and the JCMS with the Trailhawk and prototype Moab bag.

Overall, it’s an awesome looking KL; however, with a lift kit being difficult to install on the new chassis, will we ever see this one in real life?