The Jeep Cherokee has been a well-known name in the SUV world for decades. Many drivers remember it as a reliable, tough vehicle, perfect for both city streets and off-road trails.
But in recent years, rumors and news stories have caused confusion: Does Jeep not make the Cherokee anymore? This question matters to fans, used car shoppers, and anyone following the SUV market.
Let’s dive into the facts and clear up what’s really happening with the Jeep Cherokee.
The Jeep Cherokee: A Quick Look Back
The Jeep Cherokee first appeared in 1974. Over the years, it became famous for its mix of comfort and ruggedness. The model evolved several times, with the most recent generation (the KL) launching in 2014. This version brought new technology, better fuel economy, and a more modern design.
Sales were strong for many years. For example, in 2018, Jeep sold over 239,000 Cherokees in the US.
But in the years that followed, sales dropped. By 2022, numbers had fallen below 41,000 units, showing a big change in demand.
Is The Jeep Cherokee Discontinued?
In early 2023, Jeep officially announced it was pausing production of the Cherokee at its Belvidere plant in Illinois. This decision was driven by slow sales and changes in the SUV market. The last KL-generation Cherokee rolled off the line in March 2023.
However, Jeep did not say the Cherokee name is gone forever. Instead, the company said it would “explore other options” for the brand. This means the classic Cherokee could return in a new form, but for now, new models are not being made.
Why Did Jeep Stop Making The Cherokee?
There are several reasons behind this decision:
- Declining Sales: As noted, sales dropped sharply after their peak.
- Changing Tastes: Many buyers are now interested in larger SUVs or electric vehicles.
- Tough Competition: Other brands, like Toyota and Honda, have very popular SUVs.
- Costs and Efficiency: Building the Cherokee in the US became less profitable for Jeep.
Here’s a comparison to show how Cherokee sales changed over recent years:
| Year | US Sales |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 239,437 |
| 2020 | 135,855 |
| 2022 | 40,322 |
What About Used And Existing Cherokees?
If you want a Jeep Cherokee, you can still find plenty of used and recent models at dealerships. The Cherokee’s strong history means there are many options in the used car market, from older XJ models to the latest KL generation.
It’s important to know that Jeep will continue to offer service, parts, and support for current Cherokee owners. You won’t lose access to repairs or maintenance help just because production has stopped.
Will The Cherokee Come Back?
Jeep has not closed the door on the Cherokee name. The company hinted that a new version could appear in the future, possibly with an electric or hybrid engine. This fits with changes across the car industry, as many brands are moving toward more eco-friendly vehicles.
Rumors suggest the next Cherokee could focus on modern technology and efficiency. Jeep recently launched the Grand Cherokee 4xe, a plug-in hybrid SUV, showing their interest in electrification.
How Does This Affect Other Jeep Models?
The end of Cherokee production does not affect the rest of Jeep’s lineup. Models like the Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, and Gladiator are still being built and sold. Many of these SUVs offer similar features, with some key differences.
Here’s a quick comparison of the Cherokee and its closest Jeep relatives:
| Model | Size Category | Engine Options | Base Price (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee | Compact SUV | 4-cylinder, V6 | $37,695 |
| Jeep Compass | Compact SUV | 4-cylinder | $29,995 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | Midsize SUV | V6, Plug-in Hybrid | $41,530 |
What Should Buyers Do Now?
If you’re considering a Jeep Cherokee, here’s what matters:
- Used Market: You’ll find many used Cherokees in different years and trims. Prices may drop a little now that new models are paused.
- Other Jeeps: The Jeep Compass is smaller but similar. The Grand Cherokee is larger and more powerful.
- Future Models: If you want the latest tech or an electric powertrain, it might be smart to wait and see if Jeep brings back the Cherokee.
Common Mistakes When Shopping
Many buyers don’t check the model year and trim details carefully. For example, the 2014–2023 Cherokee changed a lot over the years. Also, some shoppers forget to compare warranty coverage and parts availability for used vehicles.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means For Suvs
The compact SUV market is very crowded. Brands like Toyota (RAV4), Honda (CR-V), and Ford (Escape) all offer strong choices. Jeep’s decision to pause the Cherokee shows how quickly trends can change.
This move also highlights the shift toward electric vehicles. Many carmakers are investing heavily in EVs, and Jeep is likely to follow this path with future releases.
Here’s how the Cherokee compares with top competitors:
| Model | 2023 Base Price | Fuel Economy (MPG) | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee | $37,695 | 21 city / 29 hwy | AWD |
| Toyota RAV4 | $28,275 | 27 city / 35 hwy | FWD / AWD |
| Honda CR-V | $29,500 | 28 city / 34 hwy | FWD / AWD |
Final Thoughts
So, does Jeep not make the Cherokee anymore? For now, the answer is yes—Jeep has stopped building new Cherokees as of 2023. But the story isn’t over. The Cherokee name could return, possibly with a new look and modern powertrain. If you’re a fan, you still have plenty of choices in the used market, and Jeep’s other models remain strong options.
Car shopping is always changing, and it’s wise to keep an eye on what’s coming next. For the latest, always check the official Jeep website for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Jeep Cherokee Completely Discontinued?
Yes, Jeep paused production of the Cherokee in 2023. However, the company may bring back the name in the future.
Can I Still Buy A New Jeep Cherokee?
Some new Cherokees may still be on dealer lots, but no more are being made. Most buyers will find used models more easily.
Will Jeep Support Current Cherokee Owners?
Absolutely. Jeep will keep offering service, parts, and warranties for existing Cherokee vehicles.
Are There Alternatives To The Cherokee?
Yes. The Jeep Compass and Grand Cherokee are available, along with many other compact SUVs from brands like Toyota and Honda.
Is A New, Electric Cherokee Coming Soon?
Jeep has not announced an official release date, but hints suggest the next Cherokee could be electric or hybrid in the coming years.
