AUTONEWS

New Jeep Cherokee first images

Jeep has released the first factory photos of the next-generation Cherokee, ahead of its official debut later this year and expected launch in Europe in 2026.

The first images confirm that it will look very similar to the recently introduced Compass, which it sits above in the brand's lineup.

According to Autocar, this new version will be completely unrelated to its predecessor, and will be based on the new STLA Large architecture from parent company Stellantis, which will allow it to be offered with a variety of powertrain options, including a fully electric drive. Jeep has not confirmed which one will be the first to appear, as it has not yet revealed any technical details.

However, it will be closely related to the next-generation Alfa Romeo Stelvio, which will use the same platform.

The first images of the new Cherokee were released just a day after former Jeep CEO Antonio Filoza was named the new CEO of Stellantis.

His replacement at Jeep, CEO Bob Broderdorf, said: “The all-new Jeep Cherokee underscores our efforts to provide customers with more products, innovation, choice and standard features than ever before. The Cherokee will feature competitive pricing that hits the heart of the largest vehicle segment and fits perfectly between the Compass and Grand Cherokee to strengthen our winning mainstream offering.”

These official images, and earlier spy shots, confirm that the new Cherokee shares several design cues with the electric Wagoneer S. However, up front, it has a more prominent version of Jeep’s seven-slot grille.

It’s possible that the CUS-powered Cherokee will use the twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six engine from the gasoline-powered Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, which are offered with 420 and 510 horsepower, respectively.

The electric Cherokee will likely be equipped with two electric motors with a combined 600 hp and all-wheel drive from the Wagoneer S. This is paired with that car's 118 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery, giving it a range of 303 miles / 487 km (according to US EPA testing).

Earlier spy photos reveal that the new Cherokee will get a large touchscreen infotainment screen, similar to the 12.3-inch one found in the Wagoneer S.

Finally, the Grand Cherokee will be phased out of Europe in the coming months to make way for the Wagoneer S. A similar decision could be made regarding the Wrangler when the new Recon EV arrives in Europe next year.

Autonews