- Jeep will build the next-generation Cherokee in the United States.
- Model is scheduled to go into production in the second half of 2029.
- Redesigned crossover will be based on the new STLA One platform.
The Jeep Cherokee returned in 2025 following a short hiatus, but the sixth-generation model will have a relatively short life as a redesigned crossover will arrive before the end of the decade.
Today, the automaker announced the next-generation Cherokee will become the first American-made vehicle built on the new STLA One platform, which was announced in May. It’s a global modular architecture that will replace five different platforms.
More: Stellantis Puts Cheap Cars Back On America’s Menu Thanks To New STLA Platform
In order to do this, STLA One is highly modular and will be able to underpin vehicles from the B, C and D segments. This will cut costs, reduce complexity, and speed development.
STLA One is designed to support multiple powertrains including EVs with LFP batteries and an 800-volt architecture. The first vehicle based on the platform is scheduled to arrive in 2027 and it will eventually underpin more than 30 models by 2035.
Getting back to the Cherokee, the seventh-generation SUV will be built at Belvidere Assembly in Illinois. That’s a big change as the current model is made in Mexico, alongside the Recon and Wagoneer S.
Stellantis is expecting to invest more than $800 million into the idled plant, which is up from the previous estimate of $600 million. Preparations are already underway and the company aims to begin pilot production in the first half of 2028. Retail production is expected to follow in the second half of 2029, suggesting a launch late that year.
This would mean the sixth-generation Cherokee would only stick around for four years. That’s an incredibly short lifecycle and it likely means the current model will skip a facelift entirely.
Little is known about the next-generation Cherokee at this point, but Stellantis noted Belvidere Assembly will be “capable of producing all powertrain variants on two shifts.” That suggests the next-generation model could offer an electric variant.
Furthermore, Stellantis hinted the Cherokee won’t be alone as they noted the plant is “expected to assemble a minimum of two vehicles on the new architecture.” What the other vehicle is remains a mystery.
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa said, “Launching the next-generation Cherokee on STLA One allows us to deliver a more competitive product while leveraging the strength of our U.S. manufacturing operations.” He added, “Selecting the right product architecture, timing and execution path supports our growth strategy and creates the best long-term outcome and stability for our employees, customers and stakeholders.”
