By In a move that has sent shockwaves through the automotive world, the iconic Jeep Cherokee has been officially discontinued after an impressive 49-year production run. This marks the end of an era for an SUV that not only played a pivotal role in shaping Jeep’s identity but also revolutionized the automotive industry. The Jeep Cherokee made its debut in 1974 as a rugged two-door SUV, initially based on the Wagoneer platform. In 1984, it underwent a significant transformation by transitioning to a unibody platform, marking one of the last vehicles introduced by AMC.
From there, it became an instant sensation, with over 3 million units rolling off the production line. The Cherokee’s impact extended far beyond American soil, as license-built versions continued production in China until 2014. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Jeep Cherokee’s legacy is its contribution to popularizing the unibody SUV design, which has now become a global bestseller. Its significance in the history of automobiles cannot be overstated. However, over time, the Cherokee faced the challenge of living up to its legendary predecessor.
Despite multiple generations and even some iterations sold under the “Liberty” nameplate, it struggled to recapture the original’s success. As a result, Jeep decided to streamline the Cherokee’s trim range for the 2023 model year after experiencing declining sales. The situation took a more sombre turn when Stellantis idled the Belvidere Assembly plant in Illinois, where the Cherokee was manufactured, raising questions about the SUV’s future. Stellantis remains committed to the midsize SUV segment but hasn’t confirmed if the next vehicle will carry the Cherokee label or when it will be introduced.
The Grand Cherokee, a larger sibling to the Cherokee, continues to carry the torch. Its 2022 refresh includes a plug-in hybrid variant, aligning with Jeep’s growing emphasis on hybrid and electric vehicles. However, even the Grand Cherokee’s future is uncertain, as the Cherokee Nation called for the retirement of its name in 2021, leaving open the possibility of a name change in the coming years. While the original Jeep Cherokee’s journey has come to an end, its legacy as an automotive pioneer and trailblazer will live on in the annals of history. Jeep enthusiasts and automotive aficionados worldwide will eagerly await the brand’s next move in the fiercely competitive midsize SUV segment.
