Jeep Cherokee launch delayed to ensure quality, report says Jeep is pushing back production of the much-anticipated return of the Cherokee SUV, Automotive News reports. Originally scheduled to start churning out vehicles before summer, the assembly line in Toledo, Ohio, is getting a few finishing touches to ensure that the vehicle's quality is up to snuff, the company says. Pre-production builds began several months ago, photos of which were leaked before the compact crossover was officially unveiled at the New York Auto Show in March. Chrysler's sales chief says the Cherokee should start hitting showrooms in the fall. But Automotive News also cites sources that say the Cherokee's 9-speed automatic transmission is also getting some last-minute tweaks. The high-tech unit promises to be the first for a production car. It'll be available with either a 184 hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder or 271 hp 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine, and several all-wheel-drive systems. Top of the line models, including the extra sporty Cherokee Trailhawk, will come with Jeep's Trail-Rated designation.