 The Car Connection just published a new spy photo of what they're claiming to be a KJ (the once-previous-next-generation Cherokee, but-now-maybe-its-own-vehicle prototype - confusing, isn't it?).
Here's a bit of what they have to say about it: As these spy photos show, the KJ has a profile reminiscent of the Jeep Wrangler Dakar concept shown at the Detroit auto show a few years ago. While the KJ has a similar greenhouse, those who have seen an uncamouflaged KJ say the front is more akin to a Grand Cherokee than a Wrangler. Inside, we saw an instrument panel with a pronounced brow over the gauge cluster and white gauge faces on the prototype visible in these photographs. Leatherseats, a manual transmission and power window switches mounted on the center console were also visible. The rear hatch has a separately hinged glass rear section and thespare tire mounted to it. The high roofline and steeply raked tall windshield should give the vehicle abundant headroom.
While we don't agree that the KJ is reminiscent of the Dakar concept vehicle (a Land Rover is reminiscent of a Dakar), the article speculates that the KJ will be called the Cherokee and the current Cherokee will inherit the name "Cherokee Classic". The article also says that the "power will be supplied by a new 3.7-liter overhead cam V-6 derived from the Grand Cherokee’s 4.7-liter V-8, and a 2.4-liter DOHC four derived from the Dodge Neon engine". In addition to fully independed suspension (vs. solid axle), the KJ is expected to have some of the same styling as the Jeep Varsity concept car unveiled at the Detroit auto show last month.
Be sure to check out the entire article as it has an additional picture of the KJ and some additional information.
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