Jeep is keeping details close to the vest regarding the name of its upcoming hybrid SUV, planned for a 2025 release. At the recent Los Angeles Auto Show, Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa confirmed the development of this compact hybrid SUV, according to Automotive News, but remained tight-lipped about its name.
The Cherokee’s Uncertain Future
This announcement follows Filosa’s spring confirmation of a new “mainstream” large SUV, hinting that the name would be easily guessed. This fueled speculation about the return of the Cherokee nameplate. However, the Cherokee Nation’s 2021 request for Jeep to discontinue the use of their tribal name adds complexity to this possibility.
In early 2023, Jeep quietly discontinued the Cherokee model, a mainstay in their lineup for nearly 50 years. Jeep cited declining sales, evolving market dynamics, shifting consumer preferences, and strategic brand realignment as reasons for the discontinuation.
Adapting to Changing Consumer Demands
The Cherokee, a classic four-door SUV, was renowned for its reliability and versatility in both off-road and urban settings. However, consumer preferences have shifted towards larger SUVs with advanced technology and enhanced safety features. The demand for eco-friendly vehicles, including hybrids and electric models, has also grown significantly.
This shift in consumer demand aligns with Jeep’s parent company, Stellantis’s overall strategy.
Stellantis’s Electrification Push
Stellantis has introduced the STLA Frame platform, designed for full-size trucks and SUVs. This platform supports both extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) with a potential range of up to 690 miles and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) with a range of up to 500 miles. This underlines Stellantis’s commitment to electrification across its brands, including Jeep.
The Future of Jeep SUVs
While the name remains a mystery, the new 2025 hybrid SUV indicates Jeep’s adaptation to these evolving market trends and its commitment to electrification. This new model will likely incorporate advanced technology, improved safety features, and a focus on fuel efficiency to meet the demands of today’s SUV buyers. Further details are anticipated as the 2025 release date approaches.
