The two-door SUV style is still a tasteful design.
In 1976, Jeep, under the watchful eye of AMC, created the Cherokee Chief package. Based on the SJ-generation Jeep Cherokee, this option beefed up the 4×4 SUV's appearance by installing a set of widened axles and fenders to accommodate a bigger set of off-roading tires. Accompanying this was also a set of trim revisions and a much-loved sticker pack for the body.
The highlight of the package was the choice to equip the 6.6-liter V8 engine from AMC which granted it a power output of 215 horsepower, making it one of the fastest SUVs of its time. The Chief body style was considered to be somewhat of a replacement for the two-door Wagoneer which had been discontinued in 1968. But there are some who believe there's a place for a Cherokee Chief in modern society.
Paying homage to this classic which has grown into quite the collectible item, digital artist Oscar Vargas, also responsible for the nifty Cadillac XLR rendition, has put together his impression of the icon with a modern interpretation. The foundation of his design employs the current Jeep Grand Cherokee but with a collection of retro trimmings and intense coachbuilding been etched into the SUV.
The Cherokee Chief impression adopts a shorter wheelbase with a two-door configuration which is something that has become a rarity in the Jeep lineup; only the Wrangler still offers this configuration. The arches are treated to a slight increase in width while the rear overhang has been drastically cut to create a boxier design.
The front grille and headlight combination sees a drastic rework that incorporates cues largely inspired by the retro model. Giving it a more individual look is a more aggressive and chrome-free bumper that features two recovery points and LED foglamps. The finishing touch on the design is the characterful black vinyl pack that accentuates its sporting nature together with a dual-tone black roof.
Although the manufacturer has paid tribute to this Chief trim a few years ago, a two-door Grand Cherokee model is something highly unlikely to ever occur. The brand has already introduced some new visual packs for those wanting a more individual appearance on the midsize SUV, like the Limited Black Package for the L model we saw at the 2022 Chicago Auto Show which gives it a series of dark trimmings throughout the exterior. Sadly, this render is unlikely to ever see reality.
Keyword: Modern Cherokee Chief Is The Two-Door Jeep The World Needs