Jeep Cherokee Makes a Comeback: What’s in Store for America’s Favorite SUV?

Most popular in the US
Family SUV Jeep Cherokee
News of resurrection announced

The American vehicle market offers a variety of SUVs. While European SUVs have a luxurious feel, American SUVs are somewhat clunky but famous for being faithful to their functions. In particular, Jeep vehicles have been used as family SUVs in the US for a long time, so the perception of Jeep is very friendly and positive.

In particular, the Cherokee was first released in 1974 and received much love in the US as a vehicle with strengths in off-road and city driving. However, after being produced for over ten years, the Cherokee has become outdated, and sales in the US have decreased compared to other models, falling into a slump. However, Jeep’s CEO recently shared new news related to the Cherokee. What is it?

No specific name was mentioned, but the possibility of Cherokee’s return is high

At the Jeep’s electric off-roader Wagoneer S EV launch event, Jeep’s CEO unveiled two SUVs next year and announced that the D-segment SUV similar to the Cherokee would return. Although the specific name was not revealed, most people expect that the mid-size SUV that Jeep will launch will be the new Cherokee.

However, since many Jeep vehicles released have better powertrains and superior interiors than the Cherokee, significant changes to the Cherokee seem inevitable. In particular, Jeep’s recently boasted hybrid powertrain is expected to be applied primarily. In other words, it will likely be released as an electrified model.

Jeep’s diverse lineup
Successful hybrid and electrification

Recently, Jeep has successfully applied plug-in hybrid powertrains and electrification to its various lineups. In particular, the compact electric SUV Avenger, large electric SUV Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and the soon-to-be-launched Gladiator 4xe show off their American appearance while also being efficient.

No information has yet been revealed about Jeep’s new mid-size SUV, but based on various details, it appears it will be the successor to the Cherokee, equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Judging by the decline in Jeep sales following the discontinuation of production of the Cherokee, it is clear that it is an iconic model that cannot be overlooked.

It seems complicated to see large-displacement engines in the past
Jeep is changing with the times

The last-produced Jeep Cherokee’s powertrain was equipped with a 2.0L diesel engine, a 2.2L diesel engine, and a 3.2L V6 gasoline engine and generated a maximum performance of 272 horsepower. Recently, several American manufacturers, such as Dodge and Chevrolet, have downsized the output of their engines, so it is expected that it will be difficult to see Jeep models equipped with large-displacement engines in the past.

Despite being a traditional off-roader manufacturer, Jeep is showing changes to keep up with the times. Is it sure that Jeep’s new mid-sized SUV will be the Cherokee? We need to watch Jeep’s moves a little more in the future.