Boxy and rugged returns as Jeep starts teasing all-new Cherokee

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.

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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 Nation, Chuck Hoskin, told Car and Driver at the time.

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 built 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 the 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 been ruled out entirely.

The automaker’s local arm has, however, approved 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

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