The Chrysler Group has announced that it will temporarily cease operations at its Toledo North Assembly Plant to run out the current model Cherokee/Liberty and make preparations for production of the new model due in 2014.
Initial reports suggest that the new model, which will probably retain the Cherokee/Liberty moniker, is likely to be underpinned by the same platform utilised for the Alfa Romeo Giulietta and Dodge Dart. Power will reportedly be provided by a scaled-down version of the current 3,6-litre Pentastar V6 displacing 3,2 litres and coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
If the new model is underpinned by an Alfa Romeo-sourced platform, it does lend some weight to recent rumours that the Italian marque is looking to add a compact SUV to its model line-up as part of a substantial model expansion plan. If this is the case, it’s likely that the Jeep version will be an off-road-biased, trail-rated iteration and the Alfa will be a more lifestyle-oriented package.
The new Cherokee/Liberty could make a concept-flavoured debut at next year’s Detroit Motor Show in January while production will commence at the Toledo plant towards the end of 2013.
So, where does that leave the current model and what are the implications for local availability?
According to a spokesperson from Chrysler South Africa,
“The Jeep Cherokee will continue to be sold in South Africa through 2012 and 2013 in its current form. As with all vehicles there are always changes and developments during their life cycle.
Future Jeep products in all segments are constantly improved and regularly updated to keep abreast with new technologies, safety systems, engine technologies and the design idiom of the day. Clearly Cherokee will go through the same process.
All new Jeep products are evaluated for suitability for sale in the South African market.”
