1975 ICON 4×4 Cherokee

When it comes to restomods, ICON 4×4 sets the benchmark for blending the old with the new, and their latest masterpiece is a testament to this expertise. Meet the 1975 ICON 4×4 Cherokee, a striking addition to their exclusive Reformer series, which takes classic vehicles and transforms them into something truly extraordinary. This Cherokee reimagines a beloved SUV from the past, infusing it with modern engineering while staying true to its rugged roots. The result? A jaw-dropping fusion of history, craftsmanship, and off-road capability that will make any automotive enthusiast swoon.

ICON’s Reformer series, led by founder and lead designer Jonathan Ward, is all about taking iconic vehicles and giving them a second life—one that’s elevated in every possible way. This latest build pays homage to Jeep’s heritage, while at the same time addressing some of the cultural missteps that were made with the original design. Back in the 1960s, Detroit designers gave the Jeep Cherokee a vaguely “Native American” motif that lacked historical accuracy and cultural respect. Jonathan Ward, drawing on his experience with leather craftsmanship through his brand J. Ward and apparel line Campfire Coats, sought to correct these wrongs by diving deep into Cherokee tribal symbolism and collaborating with tribal leaders.

Ward discovered a traditional Cherokee pattern symbolizing “safe flight”—an abstract representation of an eagle feather—which had historically adorned water vessels and blankets used on journeys. This motif now proudly features on the ICON Cherokee, subtly woven into various elements of the vehicle, including the gauges, door trim, and even the exterior paintwork. The resulting aesthetic not only adds a layer of cultural authenticity but also imbues the vehicle with a sense of purpose that transcends mere mechanics.

The exterior is finished in a sleek Custom Porsche Chalk paint, which contrasts beautifully with a Bentley black roof, creating a modern and sophisticated silhouette. Along the sides, the hand-painted graphic of an eagle feather in black and blood red serves as a powerful visual tribute to Cherokee heritage. The attention to detail extends to the hard trim, with custom-crafted elements like the grille, badges, mirrors, and taillight housings—all made from machined 6061 aluminium—which lends the vehicle an air of rugged sophistication.

Inside, the cabin is a celebration of artisanal craftsmanship. Ward selected two premium leathers: the primary, sourced from Moore & Giles, exudes a rich aroma and luxurious softness, while the secondary, from Wickett & Craig, is vegetable-tanned and traditionally used for saddles. Trajan Vieira, founder of Mercury Leather Works, applied his expertise to hand-tool the leather accents using the Sheridan style, a technique popularized in early 1900s Wyoming. The result is an interior that’s part cowboy cool, part modern luxury—with German wool square weave carpets, an Alcantara headliner, and bespoke gauges adding the perfect finishing touches.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an ICON Reformer without some serious mechanical upgrades. This Cherokee rides on a custom-built Art Morrison chassis equipped with coil-over suspension, hydro-boosted Brembo brakes, and Fox Racing adjustable shocks—ensuring it’s as capable on the trail as it is comfortable on the highway. Under the hood lies a beastly HEMI 6.4 V8 engine, delivering 485 horsepower and paired with a custom-built GM 4L85E transmission, Atlas II transfer case, and ICON-specific Dana high-pinion axles from Currie Industries. Whether cruising through city streets or tearing up rugged trails, this Cherokee is ready for anything.

Modern touches are seamlessly integrated throughout. Power windows and door locks, a Vintage Air Gen IV HVAC system, a discreet digital audio system with Focal Utopia speakers, and subtle LED lighting ensure comfort and convenience without sacrificing the classic aesthetic. This Cherokee isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about elevating a piece of history to meet modern standards, all while respecting and honouring the culture it originally sought to represent.

The 1975 ICON 4×4 Cherokee is a shining example of how restomods can breathe new life into classic vehicles. It’s an art piece, an off-road beast, and a tribute to craftsmanship all rolled into one stunning package—and it’s clear that Jonathan Ward and his team at ICON 4×4 have, yet again, created something truly special.

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