The 1968 Jeep Cherokee represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the original Jeep Wagoneer, marking the transition from utilitarian workhorse to comfortable family hauler. Introduced for the 1968 model year, this specific iteration brought significant updates that refined the luxury four-door SUV concept established a few years prior. While the Wagoneer nameplate would become synonymous with opulence, the Cherokee trim served as the accessible entry point, offering the signature boxy styling and renowned capability at a more attainable price point.
Design and Exterior Evolution
Visually, the 1968 Cherokee is defined by its robust, no-nonsense stance that promised durability in any condition. The sheet metal retained the classic rectangular silhouette, but careful observers will note subtle changes from the 1967 model. The front grille received a revised pattern, and the headlight bezels were updated, giving the front fascia a slightly more integrated appearance. The availability of different roof colors for the B-pillar onward provided a level of personalization that was uncommon for utility vehicles of the era, allowing owners to express individuality while maintaining the iconic boxy profile.
Interior Comfort and Craftsmanship
Step inside the 1968 Cherokee, and the contrast between its rugged exterior and luxurious cabin becomes immediately apparent. This was a vehicle designed for long-distance comfort, and the interior reflects that philosophy with meticulous attention to detail. Upholstery options ranged from durable all-vinyl to more premium combinations of vinyl and cloth, catering to varying budgets without sacrificing the signature airy ambiance. The dashboard layout remained intuitive, placing essential controls within easy reach of the driver, while the inclusion of woodgrain accents signaled a departure from the strictly functional dashboards of earlier Jeeps.
Spacious rear seating for adult passengers
Improved sound insulation for a quieter ride
Power-assisted steering for easier maneuvering
AM radio as a standard feature for the era
Optional air conditioning for maximum comfort
Mechanical Prowess and Capability
Under the hood, the 1968 Cherokee continued to rely on proven powertrains that delivered the reliability and off-road capability Jeep was famous for. The standard engine was the 230 cubic-inch "Dauntless" inline-six, providing more than enough power for on-road cruising and light trail work. For those needing extra hauling power or facing more challenging terrain, the legendary 327 cubic-inch V8 was available, transforming the Cherokee into a genuine performance machine with surprising briskness. This combination of engines ensured the Cherokee could tackle everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures with equal confidence.
Transmission and Drivetrain Options
Powertrain flexibility was a cornerstone of the Cherokee's design, with a choice of transmissions to suit different driving preferences. A three-speed manual transmission was the base offering, appealing to enthusiasts who wanted complete control over their driving experience. More practical buyers could opt for the TorqueFlite automatic transmission, which was becoming increasingly popular and offered smoother shifts and easier operation in stop-and-go traffic. Regardless of the transmission, the part-time four-wheel-drive system remained a core component, providing the driver with the ability to engage the front axle when conditions demanded extra traction, a feature that defined the true spirit of the original Jeep.
The market response to the 1968 Jeep Cherokee was overwhelmingly positive, cementing its status as a sales success for the Willys Motors division. It occupied a unique niche in the burgeoning SUV market, competing not with other off-roaders, but with luxury station wagons and large family vehicles. Buyers recognized that they could have the best of both worlds: the capability to escape the city and the comfort to live in it full-time. This balance of practicality and luxury set a benchmark that competitors struggled to match for years to come.
