Next-Gen Jeep Cherokee (KM) Caught In Latest Spy Photos

My questions are
1. What powerplant will it have?
2. Which engine layout will it get, transvere or longitudinal (old XJ)?

I would hope they aren't plaguing this with anything smaller than the new 2.0T, but there have been alot of people claiming it would see some form of the 1.6T. Considering how large this is compared to the Compass, I don't see the point of such a small 4 banger unless it's a hybrid. The 2L is a better companion for something this size, as it wouldn't struggle lugging around that weight or run out of breathe under hard acceleration. Also, could there be room under the hood for a version of the 3L Hurricane?

Which brings me to the positioning of the engine, since people say it will be FWD biased, they could do what Audi does for balance on its MLB platform. I know STLA-L can be fitted for transverse applications, but Jeep tends to like to standout from the competition. I don't really see an advantage in packaging it this way unless cabin space is going to be increased significantly.

Reply 1 Like

My questions are
1. What powerplant will it have?
2. Which engine layout will it get, transvere or longitudinal (old XJ)?

I would hope they aren't plaguing this with anything smaller than the new 2.0T, but there have been alot of people claiming it would see some form of the 1.6T. Considering how large this is compared to the Compass, I don't see the point of such a small 4 banger unless it's a hybrid. The 2L is a better companion for something this size, as it wouldn't struggle lugging around that weight or run out of breathe under hard acceleration. Also, could there be room under the hood for a version of the 3L Hurricane?

Which brings me to the positioning of the engine, since people say it will be FWD biased, they could do what Audi does for balance on its MLB platform. I know STLA-L can be fitted for transverse applications, but Jeep tends to like to standout from the competition. I don't really see an advantage in packaging it this way unless cabin space is going to be increased significantly.

It’s got a 1.6L mild hybrid. They’re insane if they think people will pay the Jeep tax (15-20% above what it should be priced at / generally awful dealership experience / hit or miss quality) for a 1.6L four banger.

Reply 3 Likes

I am on my second Cherokee and thinking of another. If it’s hybrid only, I’m out. Its gas power or no power in my world. Think many will agree.

The next generation Toyota RAV4 will be hybrid only in our market when it arrives. The Toyota Camry is currently a hybrid only model. The market segment the Cherokee competes in is heavily populated by hybrid offerings. The class leaders are Toyota and Honda and it was the hybrid option which boosted their sales to the top. The Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4 had a combined sales of nearly 1 million units sold in 2024. What was the last year sales of the Jeep Cherokee? Pathetic.👎

I believe the Hyundai/Kia hybrids use a 1.6 liter turbo. Buyers haven't exactly been avoiding those models either.

Reply 4 Likes