Jeep® CEO Confirms Cherokee Nameplate Return

The Cherokee nameplate holds a special place in the Jeep® brand’s legacy, and enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn of its imminent return to the lineup. Since its absence from the market in 2023 due to the idling of the Belvidere Assembly Plant, anticipation has been steadily mounting for its revival.

In a recent interview with Italian publication Il Sole 24 Ore, Jeep® CEO Antonio Filosa confirmed that the Cherokee is slated to make its comeback in 2025. However, there’s more to the story than just its return.

The next-generation Cherokee (KM) is set to make waves with its electrified powertrain options. Planned to be produced with both a battery-electric (BEV) and a mild-hybrid electric (HEV) setup, the new Cherokee will be built on the STLA Large architecture and manufactured at the Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico. This facility will also be home to the production of two other new Jeep products: the Wagoneer S and Recon. With production expected to commence in 2025, the new Cherokee is anticipated to grow slightly in size, offering Jeep customers enhanced features and capabilities.

While the Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico is designated as the primary production site for the new Cherokee, speculation has emerged regarding the possibility of Italian production. This move could allow the electrified Cherokee to fill a vital niche in the Jeep lineup in Europe. The current Grand Cherokee (WL) lacks a full-electric offering, and with continuing restrictions on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in urban centers across Europe, a larger Cherokee BEV could be the solution the brand needs.

While Melfi is mentioned in the Il Sole 24 Ore article, many eyes are turning towards the Cassino Assembly Plant as a potential production site for the future Jeep in the European market. Currently producing the Maserati Grecale, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and Alfa Romeo Stelvio, all of which are set to transition to the STLA Large architecture in their future iterations.

With the recent issues between Stellantis and its Italian union workforce at the Cassino plant, an official announcement is anticipated in the near future. Union members have requested a meeting with Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares next week to address concerns regarding the reduction to a single shift and the decrease in production at the facility.