Understanding the Context of Jeep Cherokee Laredo Pricing: Why There’s No 2024 Model
Understanding the Context of Jeep Cherokee Laredo Pricing: Why There’s No 2024 Model jeeps.truckstrend.com
Introduction: The Elusive Jeep Cherokee Laredo 2024 Price
When embarking on the exciting journey of purchasing a new vehicle, understanding the price point of a specific model and trim is paramount. Prospective buyers meticulously research MSRPs, available packages, optional extras, and potential hidden costs to ensure they make an informed decision that aligns with their budget and needs. For many years, the Jeep Cherokee Laredo has stood as a popular choice within the compact SUV segment, known for its blend of off-road capability, on-road comfort, and accessible entry-level pricing.
Understanding the Context of Jeep Cherokee Laredo Pricing: Why There’s No 2024 Model
However, if you’ve landed on this article specifically searching for the "Jeep Cherokee Laredo 2024 Price," there’s a crucial piece of information you need to know upfront: The Jeep Cherokee, including its Laredo trim, was discontinued after the 2023 model year. This means there is no 2024 Jeep Cherokee Laredo to price, no new models rolling off the assembly line for the current model year, and no official MSRP to report.
This article, therefore, will serve as a comprehensive guide not only to understanding the historical pricing context of the Jeep Cherokee Laredo, particularly its final 2023 iteration, but also to addressing the implications of its discontinuation. We will delve into what the Laredo trim offered, what factors influenced its price, and what this means for consumers looking for a similar vehicle today. While we cannot provide a "2024 price" that doesn’t exist, we can equip you with the knowledge to navigate the current automotive landscape if the Cherokee Laredo was on your radar.
The Discontinuation of the Jeep Cherokee: Why No 2024 Model?
The decision to cease production of a long-standing and popular model like the Jeep Cherokee is significant and usually stems from a combination of factors. For the Jeep Cherokee, particularly as it entered its fifth generation (KL), market dynamics, evolving consumer preferences, and Stellantis’s (Jeep’s parent company) strategic realignment played key roles.
Launched in 2014, the KL generation Cherokee introduced a more car-like unibody construction, moving away from the more rugged, traditional SUV roots of its predecessors. While it offered a comfortable ride and respectable off-road prowess in certain trims (like the Trailhawk), it faced increasing competition from newer, often more fuel-efficient, and technologically advanced rivals in the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment.
Sales figures, while initially strong, began to taper off in recent years. Stellantis, prioritizing investments in electrification and the development of new platforms, likely saw an opportunity to streamline its lineup. The larger and more premium Jeep Grand Cherokee, which also offers a Laredo trim and a new two-row variant, effectively filled some of the market space the Cherokee occupied. The Compass, positioned below the Cherokee, also received updates, further narrowing the gap. Ultimately, the Cherokee’s production at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois concluded in early 2023, marking the end of its run.
Recalling the 2023 Jeep Cherokee Laredo Pricing (For Context)
To provide a relevant reference point, let’s look at the final pricing structure for the 2023 Jeep Cherokee, specifically focusing on its entry-level Laredo trim. It’s important to remember that these figures are for the last model year and serve only as a historical benchmark.
The 2023 Jeep Cherokee simplified its trim lineup considerably compared to previous years, offering only the Altitude Lux and Trailhawk models. However, in previous years, and what many would consider the "Laredo" equivalent for 2023, the Altitude Lux effectively served as the entry point, building upon the spirit of what the Laredo trim historically represented – a well-equipped base model.
For the purpose of this article, we will refer to the "Laredo" as the entry-level offering, drawing from the features and pricing of the 2023 Altitude Lux, which was the closest equivalent in spirit and price point to what a traditional Laredo would have been.
Estimated 2023 Jeep Cherokee Laredo (Altitude Lux Equivalent) Pricing at a Glance:
| Feature/Component | Estimated 2023 Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP (2WD) | $37,695 | For the Altitude Lux FWD, which served as the entry model. |
| Base MSRP (4WD) | $39,195 | For the Altitude Lux 4×4. |
| Destination Charge | $1,795 | Standard charge for delivery to dealer. |
| Engine (Standard) | Included | 2.4L MultiAir 4-Cylinder Engine. |
| Standard Features | Included | Uconnect 4C with 8.4-inch display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, LED lighting, 17-inch wheels, Cloth/Premium Vinyl seats. |
| Optional Packages | $500 – $2,000+ | Examples: Technology Group, Comfort/Convenience Group (if available on entry trims). |
| Individual Options | Varies | Sunroof, upgraded wheels, premium paint, etc. (less common on base trims). |
| Estimated Total Range | $39,490 – $45,000+ | Depending on 2WD/4WD, options, and dealer specifics. |
Note: The 2023 lineup was simplified. The Altitude Lux served as the entry point, offering features that would typically be found in a mid-range Laredo Plus or Latitude trim in prior years. The pricing above reflects the starting MSRPs for the 2023 Altitude Lux.
Factors Influencing Past Cherokee Pricing
Even for a discontinued model, understanding the elements that influenced its price is crucial for anyone considering a used purchase or simply trying to comprehend automotive pricing in general.
- Trim Level: While the Laredo was often the base or near-base trim, Jeep historically offered a range of trims like Latitude, Limited, Overland, and the off-road-focused Trailhawk. Each step up in trim brought additional features, more powerful engine options, and a higher price tag.
- Drivetrain: The choice between two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) was a significant price differentiator. Jeep’s legendary 4WD systems added to the vehicle’s capability and, consequently, its cost.
- Optional Packages: Manufacturers often bundle popular features into packages (e.g., Technology Group, Cold Weather Group, Comfort/Convenience Group). These packages offered savings compared to adding features individually but increased the overall price.
- Individual Options: Beyond packages, specific standalone options like a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, premium paint colors, or specialized wheels could incrementally add to the MSRP.
- Engine Choice: While the Laredo often came standard with a 4-cylinder engine, higher trims or optional upgrades might have offered a more powerful V6 or, in some model years, a turbocharged 4-cylinder, impacting the price.
- Destination Charge: This non-negotiable fee covers the cost of transporting the vehicle from the assembly plant to the dealership. It’s a standard charge across all new vehicles.
- Dealer Markups/Discounts: In a new car market, dealer pricing strategies, local demand, and inventory levels could lead to markups (especially during periods of low supply) or discounts and incentives (during periods of high supply or end-of-model-year clearances). For a used vehicle, condition, mileage, and market demand heavily influence the price.
- Regional Variations: Pricing could sometimes vary slightly by region due to different shipping costs, local taxes, or market demands.
The Laredo Trim: A Closer Look (Historical Context)
Historically, the Laredo trim served as the entry point or a very accessible trim for many Jeep models, including the Grand Cherokee and the now-discontinued Cherokee. It aimed to provide the core Jeep experience without the premium price tag of higher trims.
For the Jeep Cherokee Laredo, this typically meant:
- Essential Features: Air conditioning, power windows and locks, a decent infotainment system (often with a 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen in later years), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and basic safety features.
- Standard Powertrain: Usually equipped with the base 4-cylinder engine, providing adequate power for daily driving.
- Styling: More understated exterior styling compared to higher trims, with standard wheel designs and less chrome or specialized badging.
- Interior: Durable cloth seating was standard, with options for premium cloth or basic leatherette on some sub-trims.
The Laredo was ideal for buyers who wanted the versatility and brand appeal of a Jeep SUV but didn’t require all the advanced luxury features or extreme off-road capabilities found in the more expensive variants. It was a practical choice for families, commuters, and light adventurers.
What to Consider When Looking for a "2024 Jeep Cherokee Laredo" (i.e., Alternatives)
Since a new 2024 Jeep Cherokee Laredo does not exist, those who were considering it must now pivot their search. Here are the primary considerations and alternatives:
- Used 2023 or Older Jeep Cherokee: This is the most direct alternative. You can find used 2023, 2022, or older models of the Jeep Cherokee, including the Laredo or Altitude Lux trims, on the pre-owned market. Prices will vary significantly based on mileage, condition, trim level, and region. Be sure to check vehicle history reports (CarFax, AutoCheck) and have a pre-purchase inspection.
- Other New Jeep Models:
- Jeep Compass: Positioned slightly below where the Cherokee was, the Compass offers a similar compact SUV size, modern interior, and available 4WD. It’s a strong contender for those who liked the Cherokee’s dimensions.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (Two-Row): The Grand Cherokee also offers a Laredo trim and a new two-row body style that is more compact than the three-row L. While generally more expensive and larger than the Cherokee was, it offers a more premium experience and is a direct spiritual successor to the original Cherokee’s larger, more refined ethos.
- Jeep Renegade: A smaller, more quirky option, the Renegade offers classic Jeep styling and off-road capability in a subcompact package.
- Jeep Wrangler: For those prioritizing extreme off-road capability and iconic styling, the Wrangler is the quintessential Jeep, though its on-road manners and practicality differ greatly from the Cherokee.
- Competitor Compact SUVs: The market is flooded with excellent alternatives from other manufacturers that compete directly with what the Cherokee offered:
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
- Subaru Forester
- Mazda CX-5/CX-50
- Hyundai Tucson
- Kia Sportage
- Ford Bronco Sport
- Nissan Rogue
When evaluating these alternatives, consider what attracted you to the Cherokee Laredo in the first place (e.g., brand loyalty, styling, off-road potential, value, specific features) and compare those attributes across the available options.
Practical Advice and Actionable Insights
- Define Your Priorities: Before looking at any vehicle, clearly list your non-negotiables: budget, seating capacity, fuel efficiency, required safety features, must-have tech, and desired off-road capability.
- Research Used Market Values: If considering a used Cherokee, use reputable sites (Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, NADA Guides) to research fair market values for specific model years and trims.
- Test Drive Alternatives: Don’t limit yourself. Test drive several new and used models that fit your criteria. The driving experience, interior comfort, and user interface can vary significantly.
- Consider Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): For used Jeeps, a CPO program offers peace of mind with an extended warranty and rigorous inspection, though typically at a higher price than a non-CPO used vehicle.
- Factor in Total Cost of Ownership: Beyond the purchase price, consider fuel costs, insurance, maintenance, and potential depreciation when comparing vehicles.
- Stay Informed on New Releases: The automotive market is constantly evolving. Keep an eye on new model announcements from Jeep and its competitors, as new options may emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is there a 2024 Jeep Cherokee Laredo?
A1: No, the Jeep Cherokee was discontinued after the 2023 model year. There is no 2024 Jeep Cherokee or Laredo trim.
Q2: Why was the Jeep Cherokee discontinued?
A2: The discontinuation was due to evolving market dynamics, declining sales, increased competition in the compact SUV segment, and Stellantis’s strategic focus on electrification and other core models like the Grand Cherokee and Compass.
Q3: What was the last model year for the Jeep Cherokee?
A3: The 2023 model year was the last for the Jeep Cherokee.
Q4: What was the approximate price of a 2023 Jeep Cherokee Laredo (or equivalent)?
A4: For 2023, the entry-level equivalent (Altitude Lux) started around $37,695 (2WD) or $39,195 (4WD) MSRP, plus a destination charge of $1,795. With options, the total could range from $39,000 to over $45,000.
Q5: What are the closest alternatives to the Jeep Cherokee Laredo today?
A5: Direct alternatives include the Jeep Compass, the two-row Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, or used 2023 and older Jeep Cherokee models. Competitor compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, and Mazda CX-5 are also strong alternatives.
Q6: Can I still buy a new Jeep Cherokee?
A6: No, you cannot buy a new 2024 Jeep Cherokee. Any "new" 2023 models still on dealer lots would be the very last of their kind, and increasingly rare. Your best bet is the used market.
Q7: How do I find out the value of a used Jeep Cherokee Laredo?
A7: Use online valuation tools like Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com), Edmunds.com, or NADAguides.com. Input the specific model year, trim, mileage, and condition for an estimated market value.
Conclusion: Adapting to the Evolving Automotive Landscape
The search for the "Jeep Cherokee Laredo 2024 Price" leads to a definitive answer: it doesn’t exist. The discontinuation of the Jeep Cherokee after the 2023 model year marks the end of an era for a popular and long-standing SUV. While this may be disappointing for those who had their hearts set on a new Cherokee, it also presents an opportunity to explore the broader automotive market.
Understanding the historical pricing of the 2023 model provides valuable context, but the real task now for prospective buyers is to either navigate the used market for a pre-owned Cherokee or to evaluate the strong lineup of alternatives, both within the Jeep brand (Compass, Grand Cherokee Laredo) and from competing manufacturers. The compact SUV segment remains vibrant and competitive, offering a wide array of choices that can meet diverse needs and budgets. By focusing on your priorities, researching thoroughly, and test-driving alternatives, you can still find the perfect vehicle to suit your lifestyle, even if it’s not the new 2024 Jeep Cherokee Laredo you initially envisioned.
