Boxy and rugged returns as Jeep starts teasing all-new Cherokee
Sixth generation moves the STLA platform with a choice of electric, plug-in hybrid and combustion engine options, but seemingly no longer with right-hand-drive.
Spied undergoing testing for the first time two months ago, Jeep has disclosed the first official teaser image of the all-new Cherokee ahead of its global unveiling later this year.
New everything
Set to become the sixth generation, and the first completely new iteration since the infamously panned fifth generation KL went on-sale 11 years ago, the newcomer dispenses with its predecessor's controversial styling for a boxier look and borrowed styling elements from the new Compass.
ALSO READ: Next Jeep Cherokee makes debut spy shot appearance
More squared off than the KL that rode on the Fiat-developed Compact Wide LWB 4×4 platform, the new Cherokee will reportedly ride on parent company Stellantis' STLA Large foundation and, as confirmed by Jeep, offer fully electric, plug-in hybrid and combustion engine options.
Cherokee it is
At the same time, it retains the Cherokee name after a much publicised backlash four years ago by the Cherokee National tribal group over alleged racism against the name first used on the original in 1974.
'The best way to honour us is to learn about our sovereign government, our role in this country, our history, culture and language and have meaningful dialogue with federally recognised tribes on cultural appropriateness,' head of the Cherokee Nationa, Chuck Hoskin, told Car and Driver at the time.
The discontinued KL Cherokee received extensive backlash for not being a 'proper' Cherokee throughout its nine year production run. Image: Jeep
In a statement shortly after, Jeep stated, 'Our vehicle names have been carefully chosen and nurtured over the years to honour and celebrate Native American people for their nobility, prowess and pride.
'We are, more than ever, committed to a respectful and open dialogue with Cherokee Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr'.
RHD off the table?
Reportedly on track to be build at the Toluca Plant in Mexico instead of the Belvidere facility in Illinois where the final KL Cherokee departed from in 2023, the new Cherokee will enter production within the coming months and start arriving at dealership before the end of the year.
According to a report by Australia's carexpert.com.au, sales Down Under won't be taking place, suggesting right-hand-drive production has having been ruled-out entirely.
The automaker's local arm did, however, approve the new Compass from 2026, which could also be the case for South Africa despite no official confirmation from Stellantis South Africa.
As it stands, expect more teasers and an official date of reveal for the new Cherokee to emerge over the coming months.
ALSO READ: Jeep boss confirms Cherokee's return in 2025 as a hybrid
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