Jeep names new model: Cherokee Limited to succeed Liberty at Toledo assembly plant

Company shows vehicle for first time

All-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited.

CHRYSLER GROUP LLC

All-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited.

After months of secrecy, the successor of the Jeep Liberty finally has a name and a face.

Chrysler has released images of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Limited, which boasts fuel economy improvements and "new driving dynamics."

The new vehicle will be made at Chrysler's Toledo Jeep Assembly Complex, and its name revives the Cherokee name the company had retired more than 10 years ago when it started making its successor, the Liberty.

Chrysler hasn't released specific details about the vehicle, but Director of Product and Brand Public Relations Rick Deneau said in a blog post today "there comes a time when you've got to eschew the traditional and embrace the progressive." 

In the post, Mr. Deneau said Chrysler listened to customers who said they still wanted Jeep off-road capability, but also needed better fuel economy, and a better driving dynamics on the road.

PHOTO GALLERY: Jeep's new model keeps within Cherokee family, replaces Liberty

Liberty production ended in August as Chrysler expanded the Toledo plant and brought in new tooling and started training workers to make the new vehicle. Production is set to begin May 23, according to the company.

The move is expected to bring 1,100 jobs to the area.

Jeep Liberty Artic edition at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.

Until now, Chrysler hasn't shown the new vehicle to the public. It is to have its official debut in late March at the New York International Auto Show. The vehicle should be in auto dealership showrooms by July.

Company officials have said the vehicle will be sold in the United States and abroad. It is expected to help Chrysler grow international Jeep branded vehicle sales.

No pricing has been announced for the Cherokee.

Early production prototypes, company officials have said, have been put through the paces at Moab, one of Jeep’s off-road testing locations.

Ruggedness, a Jeep brand hallmark, is key for this new vehicle. But it looks different than the Liberty and than the previously made Cherokee.