Jeep is preparing to reintroduce the Cherokee as a sleeker and more refined car than its competitors, the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. After discontinuing the KL-generation model last year, the automaker is focusing on a fresh design. However, there’s a chance—though not a certainty—that this new SUV may not carry the Cherokee name. We’ll get into that later, but for now, let’s explore what we know.
The Cherokee nameplate lost its appeal after Jeep discontinued the XJ. The KJ model failed to impress, the KK lacked direction, and the KL never stood a chance against its rivals. It wasn’t just the RAV4 or the CR-V that overshadowed it—models like the Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, and several South Korean crossovers also outperformed it in the global market.
Last month, some spy photographers captured a heavily camouflaged Jeep prototype undergoing testing in its pre-production phase. Its body shape and design seemed to resemble those of the Wagoneer S, including the greenhouse, wheel arches, mirrors, and door handles. At the front, the prototype features Jeep’s sharp new seven-slot grille design.
More significantly, this all-new Cherokee appears larger than before, which is crucial in such a competitive segment. What was once a compact SUV now seems to be redesigned into a mid-size category. In fact, it might be closer in size to the Grand Cherokee than to the Compass.
Jeep is expected to build the new Cherokee following the same architecture as the Wagoneer S—the Stellantis STLA Large platform. This flexible platform supports both internal combustion engines and partially electrified powertrains, offering more versatility.
The rendering, created by Kolesa, seems fairly accurate based on the available spy shots. However, with the prototype still under camouflage, details like the headlights, taillights, and bumper design remain uncertain. While the rendering for this new Cherokee suggests a sharp, modern aesthetic, the final product may not look quite as striking.
Industry rumors suggest Jeep could unveil the new Cherokee later this year as a 2026 model. However, a more cautious estimate places its debut in 2026, making it a 2027 model year vehicle.
As for the Cherokee name, former Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares has made mentioned that the company was open to dropping it. Following discussions with the Cherokee Nation regarding the use of the tribe’s name, Jeep decided—for now—to retain the Grand Cherokee name but reconsider the Cherokee badge.
What do you think? If Jeep’s next SUV closely resembles this rendering, would you consider getting it over the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V?