Since its inception in the 1980s, the Jeep Cherokee has always been a blueprint for America’s favorite SUV. Although the 4×4 capable SUV wasn’t the first of its kind, the Cherokee has always inspired automakers who wish to mimic its esteems. Cruising through 2023 proves to be an unpredictable road for the automotive world. Here’s how the Jeep Cherokee plays a crucial role in transitioning enthusiasts into SUVs and away from sedans.
Before the Fame, the Jeep was the Oddball Out
The experts at Jeep recognized the potential of the automotive brand early, and we’re thankful for their determination. Of course, when the automaker initially rose to prominence, no one wanted to be seen in a Jeep as it embodied the remnants of World War II. But, eventually, veterans embraced the ruggedly capable Willy. After all, no other automaker delivered 4×4 capability that fans could trust until Jeep.
Of course, the Dodge Power Wagon was a successful off-road capable pickup for the time, but it failed to provide an experience that the entire family could savor. Then there’s General Motors and Ford; both automakers were afraid to embark on the four-wheel drive journey until the late 1950s.
The Jeep Willy ultimately dominated the 4×4 market in the US because it provided an experience that friends and family could appreciate. Pursuing off-road capability was a dangerous gamble for an automaker that already successfully produced economically convenient vehicles, but the Willy was a lucrative gamble.
The Jeep Cherokee Effect
The Jeep Cherokee would make its way to the streets in 1974. By this time, the Cherokee had implemented a successful formula from its predecessors with spacious seating, ample cargo capacity, and dynamic four-wheel-drive capabilities.
Automotive competitors such as the Ford Bronco, the Chevy K5 Blazer, and even the Japanese-imported Toyota Land Cruiser attempted to sway enthusiasts away from Jeep. However, in 1974 the Cherokee SJ coined the term “SUV,” and the segment hasn’t been the same.
When other automakers looked to develop smaller cars during the 1970s fuel crisis, Jeep only heightened its esteem with its larger models, providing some of the best 4×4 models available. So by the 1980s, when a dramatic redesign occurred, the downsized Cherokee became the most historical iteration of the model.
Did the Jeep Cherokee Evolve, or Did the Enthusiasts?
Although the Wagoneer would attain the Cherokee’s full size, the American automaker shifted courses with a smaller variation and a new name for the SUV in 1983, the Cherokee XJ. In addition, the new Cherokee said goodbye to old traditions to reveal a unibody structure, delivering a smaller size and ample interior. The remodel attracted so many enthusiasts that the XJ aged well in its production days, producing 15 unforgettable years until 2001.
The fifth installment of the Jeep Cherokee remains a success to this day. However, the SUV renders the same enthusiasts but with a different mindset. The Cherokee used to be a ruggedly, utilitarian, family off-roader. However, the Jeep SUV has now evolved into a mild off-roader with all-wheel drive. Nevertheless, the SUV can still have a good time with a decent trail.
The car that coined the phrase ‘SUV’ has become a beautiful people hauler and a powerful influence for automakers that wish to emulate the Cherokee’s success.
Come Test Drive your 2023 Jeep Cherokee
There’s a Jeep Cherokee custom-made for your adventure here at Miami Lakes Automall. Here at Miami Lakes Automall, we have all buying, trading, and leasing options to meet your purchasing needs. Our new vehicle inventory or certified pre-owned vehicles speaks to the volume Miami Lakes Automall holds to fit your desires. However, if you already have a beautiful baby needing some fine-tuning, you’ve come to the right place, and our service department is unmatched. Our service experts at Miami Lakes Automall are warmer than a fresh cup of coffee. Miami Lakes Automall has been here since 1982. So please stop by today to drive the car of your dreams.
Photo Source/Copyright: Jeep