When it comes to jaw-dropping custom automotive builds, ICON has once again set the bar with a Hemi-powered 1975 Jeep Cherokee that redefines what’s possible in a vintage SUV. Crafted by Jonathan Ward and his team, this one-of-a-kind masterpiece seamlessly blends classic design with modern engineering. It’s not just a restoration—it’s a reimagination of the Cherokee, transformed into something that pays homage to its roots while offering a level of performance and craftsmanship that few vehicles can match.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this custom Jeep Cherokee a true work of art.
A Cherokee Like No Other
This 1975 Jeep Cherokee is unlike any you’ve seen before. ICON’s Reformer Series takes classic vehicles and elevates them to meet modern expectations of performance, durability, and style. With this build, they’ve managed to balance vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, creating a machine that’s as beautiful as it is capable.
Key Details:
- Model: 1975 Jeep Cherokee
- Concept: ICON Reformer – blending classic style with modern engineering
- Special Design Touches: Features a Rhino nose grille inspired by the Kaiser-era Jeep for a unique, standout look
While it may retain the charm of the original Cherokee, don’t let the exterior fool you—underneath, this Jeep is a fully re-engineered beast.
Powertrain and Chassis: The Heart of a Beast
At the core of this extraordinary build lies a 6.4L SRT8 HEMI V8, pumping out an impressive 485 horsepower. To handle that kind of power, ICON engineered a custom drivetrain, pairing it with a hyper-modified 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and a robust Atlas 2 twin-stick transfer case. This combination delivers precise control for off-road adventures and exceptional reliability.
Supporting this power is a fully custom chassis from Art Morrison, mandrel-bent to ICON’s specifications for superior strength and durability.
Mechanical Highlights:
- Engine: 6.4L SRT8 HEMI V8 (485 HP)
- Transmission: Hyper-modified 4-speed automatic with overdrive
- Chassis: Custom-built Art Morrison mandrel-bent frame
- Differentials: Dana 44 front and Dana 60 rear (high-pinion)
- Suspension: Fox Racing nitrogen-charged shocks paired with Eibach coils for 12 inches of travel
ICON’s focus on performance doesn’t stop at raw power—it’s engineered for real-world durability and unstoppable off-road capability.
Brakes, Tires, and Wheels: Safety Meets Style
When you’re packing nearly 500 horsepower under the hood, control and stopping power are non-negotiable. ICON outfitted this Cherokee with a Brembo braking system, featuring six-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers in the rear. Paired with Hydroboost assist and slotted, vented rotors, this setup ensures exceptional braking performance on any terrain.
Specs:
- Brakes: Brembo system with Hydroboost assist and Wilwood master cylinder
- Wheels: Custom-forged 18-inch aluminum wheels
- Tires: 285/65R18 – offering the perfect mix of rugged off-road grip and highway comfort
Even the hand-spun stainless-steel wheel caps reflect ICON’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Design: Modernized Elegance with Vintage Soul
ICON has elevated the Jeep Cherokee’s timeless design, refining its lines with CNC-machined billet aluminum components and a custom paint scheme that combines Bentley’s signature black with a unique chalk finish. This blend of luxury and ruggedness ensures the Cherokee stands out wherever it goes.
Unique Design Features:
- Grille: CNC-machined billet aluminum grille with a chrome finish, inspired by the classic Rhino design
- Trim: Custom beltline graphics inspired by Cherokee tribal symbolism
- Paint: Bentley black paired with a custom chalk-tone finish
Inside, the craftsmanship reaches an entirely new level. The interior is a masterpiece of hand-tooled leather, inspired by Western saddlework and crafted by master artisans. ICON replaced factory-standard materials with premium, modern alternatives while maintaining a vintage aesthetic.
Interior Highlights:
- Seats: Hand-tooled leather seats with intricate Western-style detailing
- Dashboard Gauges: Retro-modern setup with digital precision
- Headliner: Upgraded premium materials replace the factory cardboard design
- Sound System: Integrated Bluetooth connectivity while keeping a clean, vintage dash appearance
ICON ensures that form meets function, delivering a cabin experience that’s as luxurious as it is purposeful.
Driving Experience: The Best of Both Worlds
Behind the wheel, this Cherokee strikes the perfect balance between modern comfort and vintage charm. The HEMI V8 delivers immediate, exhilarating power, while the custom suspension and chassis soak up bumps with ease, providing a refined driving experience on both highways and rugged trails.
Despite its modern upgrades, this Cherokee hasn’t lost its classic soul—you’ll feel the heritage with every mile.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Custom Jeep Cherokee
The Hemi-powered ICON Jeep Cherokee is more than just a vehicle—it’s a masterpiece of design, engineering, and craftsmanship. Jonathan Ward and his team have redefined what a classic SUV can be, creating a one-off machine that seamlessly blends timeless style with modern performance.
For collectors and enthusiasts, this Jeep Cherokee is the ultimate blend of nostalgia and innovation—a rolling work of art that pays homage to its roots while setting a new standard for what’s possible.
ICON’s attention to detail, from the precision-engineered powertrain to the hand-tooled leather interior, showcases their unparalleled dedication to automotive perfection. This isn’t just about creating a statement piece—it’s about rewriting history and showing what happens when passion, skill, and technology collide.
For anyone who demands the absolute best in a custom SUV, ICON’s HEMI-powered Jeep Cherokee delivers in every way imaginable.
For more incredible builds and automotive content, check out Autotopia LA on YouTube: Watch Here.
About Autotopia LA
