Is Jeep Discontinuing The Cherokee

Jeep’s decision regarding the Cherokee’s future has sparked considerable discussion among SUV enthusiasts. The question “is jeep discontinuing the cherokee” has been on the minds of many potential buyers and loyal fans alike. Recent rumors and official statements have created a mix of confusion and speculation, making it essential to separate fact from fiction.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Cherokee’s fate. We’ll look at official announcements, sales trends, and what it means for you if you’re considering buying one. Let’s get straight to the point.

The short answer is yes, but with important context. Jeep has officially confirmed that the current generation of the Cherokee will end production after the 2023 model year. This decision was not sudden; it followed years of declining sales and a shifting market focus within the Stellantis group.

However, the Cherokee nameplate is not dead forever. Jeep has hinted at a potential future model, possibly an electric or hybrid version, but no concrete plans have been announced yet. For now, production at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois has stopped, and the Cherokee is being phased out of showrooms.

Why Did Jeep Stop Making The Cherokee

Several factors contributed to this decision. Understanding these reasons helps clarify the bigger picture for the brand.

Declining Sales: The Cherokee’s sales dropped significantly over the past few years. In 2019, Jeep sold over 191,000 Cherokees in the U.S. By 2022, that number fell to around 78,000. The compact SUV segment became highly competitive, with rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 dominating.
Production Costs: The Cherokee was built on a platform that was aging and expensive to maintain. Stellantis decided to reallocate resources to more profitable models like the Grand Cherokee and the Wrangler.
Shift to Electrification: Jeep is investing heavily in electric vehicles (EVs). The company has announced plans to launch several EVs by 2025, including a new compact SUV that could replace the Cherokee. The current Cherokee’s internal combustion engine didn’t fit this new direction.
Plant Closure: The Belvidere plant, which exclusively produced the Cherokee, was idled in early 2023. Stellantis cited the need to retool the facility for future EV production as a primary reason.

What Does This Mean For Current Cherokee Owners

If you already own a Jeep Cherokee, don’t panic. The discontinuation of production does not mean your vehicle is obsolete. Parts and service support will continue for many years.

Jeep has a legal obligation to supply replacement parts for at least 10 years after a model is discontinued. You can still get routine maintenance, repairs, and accessories from any Jeep dealership or authorized service center. The resale value might drop slightly, but Cherokees generally hold their value well due to strong brand loyalty.

Key Considerations For Owners

Warranty Coverage: Your factory warranty remains valid. If you have an extended warranty, it will also be honored.
Aftermarket Support: Many third-party parts manufacturers will continue to produce components for the Cherokee. The aftermarket community is strong for Jeep vehicles.
Trade-In Value: Expect a modest decrease in trade-in value compared to when the model was still in production. However, this is normal for any discontinued vehicle.

Should You Buy A Jeep Cherokee In 2024 Or 2025

This is a common question from shoppers. Buying a discontinued model can be a smart financial move, but it comes with trade-offs. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons.

Pros Of Buying A Cherokee Now

Discounts: Dealers are eager to clear remaining inventory. You can often get significant discounts, sometimes thousands of dollars below MSRP.
Proven Reliability: The Cherokee has been on the market for years. You can research common issues and know exactly what you’re getting. The 2023 model year is the most refined version.
Strong Off-Road Capability: The Cherokee Trailhawk trim remains one of the most capable compact SUVs off-road. It offers features like a locking rear differential and skid plates.

Cons Of Buying A Cherokee Now

Outdated Technology: The Cherokee’s infotainment system and interior design are from an earlier era. Newer competitors offer larger screens, better smartphone integration, and more modern cabins.
Lower Resale Value: As mentioned, resale value will likely drop faster than for a current model. If you plan to sell in a few years, you might take a bigger hit.
Limited Availability: Finding a new Cherokee with your preferred options and color might be challenging. Inventory is shrinking rapidly.

What Are The Alternatives To The Cherokee

If you decide the Cherokee isn’t right for you, several excellent alternatives exist. Jeep itself offers other models that might fit your needs better.

Jeep Alternatives

Jeep Compass: The Compass is smaller and more affordable than the Cherokee. It offers a modern interior and good fuel economy. However, it’s less capable off-road.
Jeep Grand Cherokee: This is the larger, more premium sibling. It offers more space, power, and luxury. The Grand Cherokee L adds a third row. It’s more expensive but a direct step up.
Jeep Wrangler: If off-road capability is your top priority, the Wrangler is unmatched. It’s less practical for daily driving but offers unmatched adventure potential.
Jeep Wagoneer: For a full-size SUV, the Wagoneer is a luxurious option. It’s much larger and more expensive than the Cherokee.

Non-Jeep Alternatives

Honda CR-V: Known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and a spacious interior. It’s not off-road focused but excellent for daily driving.
Toyota RAV4: Similar to the CR-V, the RAV4 offers hybrid options and strong resale value. The RAV4 TRD Off-Road has decent capability.
Subaru Forester: Standard all-wheel drive and good ground clearance make it a capable choice for light off-roading. It’s practical and safe.
Ford Bronco Sport: A direct competitor to the Cherokee Trailhawk. It offers good off-road capability and a modern design. The full-size Bronco is even more capable.
Mazda CX-5: A stylish and fun-to-drive compact SUV. It’s not off-road oriented but offers a premium feel at a reasonable price.

Will There Be A New Jeep Cherokee In The Future

This is the million-dollar question. Jeep has not officially announced a replacement, but industry insiders and leaked documents suggest a new model is in development. Here’s what we know.

Stellantis has confirmed plans to launch a new compact SUV on the STLA Medium platform. This platform is designed for electric and hybrid powertrains. The new model could be called the Cherokee or something entirely new, like the “Jeepster” or “Compass EV.”

Rumors point to a 2025 or 2026 launch. The new Cherokee would likely be fully electric, with a range of around 300 miles. It would compete with the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the upcoming Chevrolet Equinox EV. Jeep is also considering a plug-in hybrid version for markets not ready for full EVs.

What To Expect From A New Cherokee

Electric Powertrain: Most likely a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive. Expect fast acceleration and quiet operation.
Modern Design: The new model will have a sleeker, more aerodynamic look. It will retain Jeep’s signature seven-slot grille but with a closed-off design for aerodynamics.
Advanced Technology: A large touchscreen, over-the-air updates, and advanced driver-assistance features will be standard.
Off-Road Capability: Jeep will likely offer a Trailhawk version with increased ground clearance, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. Electric motors provide instant torque for off-road crawling.

How Does The Cherokee Compare To The Grand Cherokee

Many buyers confuse the Cherokee with the Grand Cherokee. They are different vehicles with distinct purposes. Here’s a quick comparison.

Feature	Jeep Cherokee	Jeep Grand Cherokee
Size	Compact	Mid-size
Price	Starting around $37,000	Starting around $40,000
Engine Options	2.4L I4, 3.2L V6	3.6L V6, 5.7L V8, 4xe PHEV
Off-Road Capability	Good (Trailhawk)	Excellent (Trailhawk, Summit Reserve)
Interior Space	Moderate	Spacious, optional third row
Production Status	Discontinued after 2023	Still in production

The Grand Cherokee is larger, more powerful, and more luxurious. It’s also still in production, so you can buy a new one today. The Cherokee was more affordable and slightly more maneuverable in tight spaces.

What About The Jeep Cherokee KL

The “KL” refers to the fifth-generation Cherokee, produced from 2014 to 2023. This is the model that is being discontinued. Earlier generations, like the XJ (1984-2001) and KJ (2002-2007), are classics and still popular among enthusiasts.

The KL generation was known for its controversial styling, especially the split-headlight design. It also had some reliability issues, particularly with the 9-speed automatic transmission in early models. Later years (2019-2023) improved significantly.

If you’re looking for a used Cherokee, the 2019 or newer models are the best choices. They have the most refined powertrain and updated interior technology.

How To Find A New Jeep Cherokee In Stock

If you’ve decided to buy a new Cherokee, time is of the essence. Inventory is drying up fast. Here’s a step-by-step guide to finding one.

Check Jeep’s Official Website: Use the “Search Inventory” tool. Filter by model year 2023 and your preferred trim.
Contact Multiple Dealers: Call or email dealerships in your area. Ask for their current inventory list. Be prepared to travel if necessary.
Use Third-Party Sites: Websites like Autotrader, Cars.com, and CarGurus allow you to search nationwide. Set alerts for new listings.
Consider Used: If new inventory is gone, look for low-mileage used Cherokees from 2021-2023. Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) models come with extended warranties.
Negotiate Hard: Dealers want to move these vehicles. Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount. You might get 10-15% off MSRP.

Common Questions About The Cherokee Discontinuation

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions. These address concerns many buyers have.

Will Parts Be Available For The Cherokee

Yes, Jeep is required to supply parts for at least 10 years. Most common parts like brakes, filters, and belts will be readily available. Body panels and specialized components might take longer to source but are still obtainable.

Is The Cherokee Reliable

Reliability varies by year. The 2014-2016 models had transmission issues. The 2019-2023 models are much more reliable. Overall, the Cherokee scores average in reliability surveys, comparable to the Ford Escape but below the Honda CR-V.

Can I Still Lease A Cherokee

Leasing a discontinued model is possible but rare. Most leasing companies prefer current models. You might find a lease on remaining inventory, but terms may not be as favorable as for in-production vehicles.

What Is The Resale Value Of A Cherokee

Resale value is expected to drop 10-15% faster than for a comparable current model. However, the Cherokee’s strong brand appeal and off-road capability help it retain some value. A well-maintained Trailhawk model will hold value better than a base model.

Will The Cherokee Name Return

Jeep has not confirmed, but the nameplate has strong recognition. It’s likely that a future model will use the Cherokee name, possibly for an electric SUV. The brand has a history of reviving iconic names, like the Wagoneer.

Final Thoughts On The Cherokee’s Future

The discontinuation of the Jeep Cherokee marks the end of an era. It was a popular model that helped define the compact SUV segment. However, the automotive industry is changing rapidly, and Jeep is adapting.

For current owners, there’s no need to worry. Your Cherokee will remain supported for years. For potential buyers, now is a great time to snag a deal on remaining inventory. Just be aware of the trade-offs in technology and resale value.

Looking ahead, the future of the Cherokee nameplate is uncertain but promising. An electric or hybrid replacement could arrive within a few years, bringing modern features and improved efficiency. Until then, the current Cherokee remains a capable and affordable option for those who value off-road ability.

If you’re still unsure, test drive a Cherokee and compare it to alternatives. The best decision depends on your priorities: budget, off-road needs, and willingness to own a discontinued model. Whatever you choose, the Jeep brand continues to offer a range of vehicles for every lifestyle.

We hope this article has cleared up the confusion around “is jeep discontinuing the cherokee.” Stay tuned for official announcements from Jeep, and happy driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jeep Discontinuing The Cherokee Permanently

Not necessarily. The current generation is ending, but Jeep may release a new model in the future, likely an electric vehicle. No official timeline has been given.

When Did Jeep Stop Making The Cherokee

Production ended in early 2023. The last models were built at the Belvidere plant in Illinois. Dealers still have some 2023 inventory available as of late 2024.

What Replaced The Jeep Cherokee

There is no direct replacement yet. The Jeep Compass and Grand Cherokee fill some of the gap. A new compact SUV, possibly electric, is expected by 2025 or 2026.

Is The Jeep Cherokee A Good Used Car

Yes, especially the 2019 and newer models. They offer good off-road capability and a comfortable ride. Just check for transmission issues in earlier years and ensure regular maintenance was done.

Will Jeep Support The Cherokee After Discontinuation

Absolutely. Jeep will provide parts and service for at least 10 years. You can still get warranty repairs and routine maintenance at any dealership.