- Jeep’s upcoming SUV will fit between Compass and Grand Cherokee, filling a crucial gap.
- The SUV appears to share panels with Wagoneer S but features a more upright rear design.
- The model is expected to debut for 2026 MY, launching first with ICE and hybrid power.
Jeep is gearing up to introduce a “new mainstream UV [Utility Vehicle]” to replace the discontinued Cherokee in its North American lineup. While the brand has been tight-lipped about the name, our spies have spotted camouflaged prototypes that appear to share several design elements with the fully electric Jeep Wagoneer S.
Stellantis recently hinted that the Cherokee name won’t return for this new model, which is expected to slot between the Compass and Grand Cherokee. The first spy shots are consistent with the official teaser from 2021, making us believe that we’re looking at the much-anticipated successor of the Cherokee.
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At first glance, the prototype borrows several styling cues from the Wagoneer S, including its wheel arches, door handles, mirrors, and much of the greenhouse. However, key differences stand out, including a reworked rear side window, a reshaped D-pillar, and a more upright tail that leans toward a traditional SUV silhouette. The front remains heavily camouflaged, but the signature seven-slot grille and headlight positioning are still discernible.
Overall, the model appears to be much larger than the outgoing KL Cherokee, edging closer to the Grand Cherokee’s footprint. Based on the spy shots, it may share the Wagoneer S ‘113-inch (2,870 mm) wheelbase and could even surpass its 192.4-inch (4,887 mm) overall length.
Hybrid and Gas-Powered Variants Come First
We already know this new SUV will ride on Stellantis’ STLA Large platform, the same architecture underpinning the Wagoneer S and the Recon. Unlike those two, however, the Cherokee successor is expected to launch with hybrid and internal combustion engine (ICE) options before a potential fully electric version arrives. The presence of a visible tailpipe confirms the presence of a gas engine in these prototypes.
Jeep has yet to announce an official debut date, but we’ve heard that the new SUV will likely arrive in late 2025, lining up with the 2026 model year.
More Jeeps on the Way
Beyond the Cherokee replacement, Jeep has a busy roadmap. The upcoming Recon will be offered in both EV and ICE configurations, while 2027 will bring the next-generation Compass and Renegade, along with refreshed versions of the Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, and Grand Wagoneer.
