All-New 2025 Jeep Cherokee Electric SUV Review

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2025 Jeep Cherokee: According to an interview with Jim Morrison, the head of Jeep Brand North America, the forthcoming next-generation Jeep Cherokee medium SUV is expected to increase in size, however, it is not expected to be unveiled anytime soon.

The new Cherokee, allegedly referred to as KM, is said to be “bigger and better than ever,” although Morrison did not provide any further details. Additionally, the sixth-generation model will not be released this year to replace the current Cherokee, which was first introduced in 2013. The global president of the marque, Christian Meunier, confirmed that the new model will feature a significant amount of electrification, potentially referring to a plug-in hybrid or all-electric powertrain.

As per a previous report by Automotive News, the next-generation model is not anticipated to arrive until the middle of the decade, with the current model set to serve for more than 10 years before being replaced. The new platform will likely be based on the STLA Large architecture, with the architecture expected to evolve from parent company Stellantis’s Giorgio architecture.

The STLA Large platform is presently utilized in the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio, as well as the Jeep WL Grand Cherokee, which supports rear- or all-wheel-drive applications. The updated STLA Large platform is anticipated to support internal combustion and electric powertrains with front-, rear- or all-wheel-drive.

According to the enthusiast website MoparInsiders, the KM Cherokee may acquire a luxurious Wagoneer-badged variant. The flagship trim, which is only available in all-wheel drive, will reportedly be restricted to the brand’s Wagoneer-certified dealers in the United States who are authorized to sell the upper-large Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer four-wheel-drive vehicles.

The new and larger KM Cherokee is expected to fill the gap between the existing KL model and the larger, standard-wheelbase WL Grand Cherokee, which may include three rows of seating.

2025 Jeep Cherokee Review

There have been reports since 2022 suggesting that the compact Cherokee may receive a redesign in 2025. Jeep had previously confirmed that the next-gen Cherokee, known as the KM, would be larger and electrified. However, there is limited information on the upcoming 2025 Jeep Cherokee, but it is believed that the SUV will be redesigned.

2025 Jeep Cherokee

Although there are no images of the upcoming Cherokee prototypes and no concrete information on the design of the 2025 model, it is anticipated that the Cherokee will have a boxier design language based on Jeep’s newer SUVs like the Grand Cherokee and Wagoneer. The current Cherokee has a rounded front-end design that uses Jeep’s older design language.

The interior design of the Cherokee is outdated and requires an update. The SUV is expected to arrive with an updated design, including a new dashboard, HVAC controls, and a center console. Jeep may switch to a rotary dial for the transmission instead of a traditional shifter.

There is no information on the technology that the 2025 Cherokee will feature. However, it is expected to come with Jeep’s latest version of Uconnect and larger touchscreens. Other feature content is unknown at this time.

What we do know is that the 2025 Cherokee will have some form of electrification. A hybrid or a plug-in hybrid powertrain are the two most probable options. Currently, the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe are the only two SUVs that come with plug-in hybrid powertrains, both utilizing a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors for 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, and a 17-kWh battery pack. It is possible that the 2025 Cherokee may feature a similar powertrain.

The current Cherokee has a long list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and lane departure warning. It is expected that the 2025 Cherokee will continue to be available with the latest safety features.

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2025 Jeep Cherokee Specs

Gilles, the group-level design boss, praised the STLA Large platform for its excellent design features such as the low battery placement and the EDM motors at the edges, which allow for various wheel sizes, suspension heights, and widths. The platform is suitable for mid-size to full-size vehicles with a length of 4.70-5.40 m and a width of 1.90-2.03 m.

Stellantis recently referred to STLA Large as a platform that prioritizes battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), but a report from MoparInsiders.com suggests that the upcoming Jeep Cherokee (codenamed Jeep KM) will be available in both hybrid and pure-electric versions.

Although Stellantis has not explicitly stated it, the STLA Large platform does not seem to be a dedicated EV platform like Volkswagen Group’s MEB. Rather, it appears to be an EV-first platform, which is superior to conversion-type models, but not as efficient in terms of space, cost, or features as bespoke platforms. The Jeep Cherokee Electric is expected to come with dual motors that enable an all-wheel drive drivetrain layout and offer multiple power levels of up to 350-400 hp.

The battery pack of the Cherokee EV is expected to have a gross energy storage capacity of 101-118 kWh, with a usable storage capacity slightly lower. With an 800-volt operating voltage, the battery pack may take only about 20 minutes for a 10-80% DC fast-charging session. Stellantis aims for a WLTP range of 500 miles for EVs based on the STLA Large platform.

However, the Jeep Cherokee Electric, being a large SUV, may settle for a lower range of 350-400 miles. The EPA-estimated range could be slightly above 300 miles, which is still decent. It is anticipated that the high-spec variants of the Jeep Cherokee Electric will have impressive off-road capabilities, given that it is a Jeep SUV.

2025 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk

The Jeep Cherokee is available in two trims, the Altitude Lux and the Trailhawk, both equipped with all-wheel drive. Two engine options are available, a 2.4L 4-cylinder producing 180 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 270 horsepower and 295 foot-pounds of torque. All engines feature stop/start technology and are paired with a 9-speed transmission.

The Cherokee comes standard with various safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, full-speed forward collision warning with active braking, LaneSense lane-keeping assist, anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, hill-start control, and ten airbags.

The 4×4 models also get the Select-Terrain traction management system to navigate different road conditions. Optional safety features include a park assist and a roadside assistance button.

The Altitude Lux trim comes with 17-inch black aluminum wheels, power and heated exterior mirrors, automatic LED headlamps, LED taillamps, heated front seats, an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 4 USB ports, 6-speakers, active grille shutters, roof rails, power driver’s seat, and a rearview camera.

The Trailhawk trim has similar features to the Altitude Lux but excludes leather seats. It has added off-road capabilities with a driver-selectable locking rear differential, all-terrain tires, five skid plates, and a one-inch lift in the suspension.

The Trailhawk also includes black bumpers, two tow hooks in the front and one in the rear, an increased towing capacity of 4260 lbs., and a taller ground clearance.

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2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular midsize SUV that is now in its fifth generation, marking its 30th anniversary. The two-row Grand Cherokee and the three-row Grand Cherokee L have both undergone a few minor changes as part of this update. In Canada, the Grand Cherokee is available in six different versions: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve.

One of the greatest advantages of the Grand Cherokee is that it has already established itself in the market. It is a rugged SUV that provides luxury and maintains its off-road capabilities, making it a great choice for daily use. It offers comfort without sacrificing off-road capabilities and is less expensive than luxury-brand SUVs.

The new Grand Cherokee is built on a “modular” platform that enables a variable wheelbase, which may allow for an electric drive train in the future.

For now, there are two conventional powertrain options: a 3.6L 293 hp Pentastar V6 and a 5.7L 357 hp HEMI V8, as well as a plug-in hybrid powertrain that includes a 2.0L inline-four turbo engine and two electric motors for a total output of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque.

An eight-speed automatic transmission and the Quadra-Trac I or II 4WD system complete the package. The Selec-Terrain traction management system and Quadra-Lift air suspension are optional on lower trim levels and standard on higher ones, providing stability and efficient handling regardless of the season.

The Grand Cherokee’s cabin is spacious, with very comfortable front seats and various onboard equipment, depending on the version chosen.

Some of the features include a surround-view camera system, touchscreens, the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, a 19-speaker McIntosh sound system, Palermo leather seats, and various safety and driver assistance features.

Exterior

The exterior of the 2025 Cherokee has been completely redesigned, giving it a more aggressive and modern look. The grille has been enlarged, and the headlights have been reshaped to give the vehicle a more menacing appearance.

The taillights have also been updated, with a new design that gives the Cherokee a more distinctive look from the rear.

Interior

The interior of the 2025 Cherokee has also been refreshed, with new materials and technology added to improve the overall experience. The dashboard has been redesigned, and the instrument cluster has been updated with a new digital display.

The seats have been upgraded with better padding and more support, and the cabin is now quieter thanks to improved sound deadening.

Engine and Performance

The 2025 Cherokee will be powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to all four wheels.

This combination allows the Cherokee to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds.

The Cherokee will also come with a new hybrid powertrain option that is expected to produce more than 300 horsepower. The hybrid system will be paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and will be capable of traveling up to 30 miles on electric power alone.

Off-Road Capabilities

The 2025 Cherokee is designed to handle any type of terrain, as it boasts exceptional off-road capabilities that are among the best in its class. It is equipped with Jeep’s famous four-wheel-drive system that includes a low-range transfer case and an electronic locking rear differential.

With a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, the Cherokee can easily maneuver over obstacles such as rocks.

To further enhance its off-road capabilities, the Cherokee has an advanced suspension system. It has a four-wheel independent suspension that provides a smooth ride on the road while also offering excellent articulation off-road. The suspension is adjustable, which allows drivers to choose between different settings based on the driving conditions they encounter.

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2025 Jeep Cherokee Color

The 2025 Cherokee will be available in a range of colors, including Bright White, Velvet Red, Granite Crystal, and Hydro Blue.

Trim Levels

The vehicle will also be offered in several different trim levels, each with its own unique set of features and options. The trim levels include the following:

  • Sport: The base model of the 2025 Cherokee, comes with standard features such as a 12-inch touchscreen display, a 10-speaker audio system, and a rearview camera.
  • Latitude: The mid-level trim level, adds features such as automatic headlights, heated front seats, and remote start.
  • Limited: The top-of-the-line trim level, comes with features such as leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and a premium audio system.

2025 Jeep Cherokee Price

The Clean Vehicle Credit program is expected to provide the all-electric Jeep Cherokee, which is anticipated to cost approximately USD 50,000, with a maximum tax credit of USD 7,500.

2025 Jeep Cherokee Release Date

Jeep revealed on September 8, 2022, that it intends to introduce four electric vehicles by 2025, including the Jeep Avenger EV, Jeep Recon, and Jeep Wagoneer S. The fourth model may potentially be the Jeep Cherokee Electric.

In April 2023, Jeep released a teaser image of what appeared to be a shorter and lower vehicle hidden under a cover, potentially hinting at the Cherokee Electric. However, it’s also possible that the company used a generic image that doesn’t necessarily reflect the final product, so it’s still possible that Cherokee Electric will launch by 2025.

Verdict

The 2025 Jeep Cherokee is an impressive midsize SUV that offers a perfect combination of off-road capabilities, performance, and comfort. With its new platform, powerful engine, and advanced suspension system, the Cherokee is designed to tackle any terrain with ease.

The refreshed interior and exterior design gives the vehicle a modern and aggressive look, while the latest technology and features provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. If you’re in the market for an off-road capable SUV, the 2025 Jeep Cherokee is definitely worth considering.