ICON 4x4, the pioneering automotive design firm that started the automotive restomod category, is proud to introduce the latest over-the-top build created with expert craftsmanship and design. A 1975 Jeep Cherokee is part of ICON’s exclusive series of one-off builds, called The Reformers. The Reformer series seeks to play a bit of revisionist history, transcending and elevating classic vehicles with a focus on revolutionizing the drivability, all while elevating every detail within the builds themselves.
ICON and its founder and lead designer, Jonathan Ward, undertook an additional mission with this build: to address the negligent errors of the original Detroit designers by correcting the Native American tribal homages that were incorporated into the vehicle's original design and adding new ones where it made sense. Detroit designers of the 1960s paid little attention to tribal accuracy or historical references in their work. However, drawing on Jonathan Ward's experience with his leather goods brand, J. Ward, and his apparel line, Campfire Coats, ICON was uniquely positioned to correct these historical oversights and honor the true cultural significance of the original designs.
The original concept of the Jeep Cherokee featured several missteps, including an inaccurate depiction of a Native American tribal graphic on the beltline and the use of imitation Naugahyde leather instead of genuine cowhide. The tribal graphic? Not from the Cherokee nation. The stamped 'hide' of faux Naugahyde in a Western style? Completely off the mark. One of the most compelling aspects of these Reformer projects is the chance to thoroughly study the original design priorities. By understanding both the strengths and shortcomings of the original, ICON is able to expand on the design from a fresh, more authentic perspective—correcting inaccuracies while staying true to the spirit of the vehicle.
ICON began with an original 1975 Cherokee and a 1965 Jeep Gladiator, carefully selecting the best elements from these key moments in Jeep's evolution. Jonathan Ward blended these iconic features to create something truly unique and exceptional, paying homage to the brand's rich history while simultaneously elevating it to new heights. Drawing on his expertise and the communities connected to his leather goods brand and apparel line, Jonathan Ward conducted a deep dive into traditional Cherokee textile and clay arts. He explored the rich symbolism embedded in each pattern and detail, ensuring that every element in the design was authentic and respectful of Cherokee traditions.
After extensive research and close collaboration with tribal leaders, Jonathan Ward discovered a traditional Cherokee pattern symbolizing ‘safe flight’—an abstract representation of an eagle feather. Historically, this design adorned water vessels and blankets when tribe members embarked on perilous journeys. It was a natural choice for the vehicle, featured prominently along the body and integrated into numerous details, from the gauges and coat hooks to the door trim and more.
For the interior, Ward selected two premium leathers in place of the original vinyl. The primary leather, sourced from Moore & Giles, was chosen for its rich aroma and exceptionally soft texture. The second, from Wickett & Craig, North America's oldest tannery since 1867, is a vegetable-tanned leather traditionally used for saddles. This durable material was the perfect choice for the hand-tooled seat and door panel accents. In keeping with traditional craftsmanship, Ward enlisted Trajan Vieira, a master artisan and founder of Mercury Leather Works, to carve the leather in the Sheridan style, a technique that gained popularity in early 1900s Wyoming. With German wool square weave carpets hemmed in leather, an Alcantara headliner, bespoke gauges in the original housing, dash knobs, and custom trim, the result is a legitimate piece of art on wheels.
The vehicle is finished in Custom Porsche Chalk paint, a sophisticated shade that provides a striking contrast against the sleek Bentley black roof, enhancing the vehicle's modern silhouette. Along the side, a meticulously hand-painted graphic, an abstract representation of the eagle feather in black and blood red, pays homage to Cherokee heritage, adding a powerful visual statement. Every exterior detail is a testament to ICON's design prowess. From the grille and badges to the mirrors, handles, and taillight housings, all hard trim was custom-designed and meticulously crafted from machined 6061 aluminum, ensuring durability while exuding refined craftsmanship.
Mechanically, this Cherokee rides on a one-off Art Morrison chassis with coil-over suspension, hydroboosted Brembo brakes, Fox Racing adjustable nitrogen-charged shocks, and tunable sway bars. Under the hood, a HEMI 6.4 V8 delivers 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, paired with a custom-built GM 4L85E transmission, Atlas II transfer case, and a PSC power steering box. The vehicle is equipped with Currie Industries ICON-specific Dana high-pinion axles (44 front, Extreme 60 rear). The build is completed with BF Goodrich All-Terrain K02 tires and ICON Old School Forged 18" aluminum rims with stainless dog dish hubcaps.
Modern conveniences, including a Vintage Air Gen IV HVAC system, power windows, door locks, a digital audio system with Focal Utopia speakers, and discreet LED interior lighting, are subtly integrated to preserve the vehicle’s timeless aesthetic, ensuring it will be cherished for decades.
Jonathan Ward, Founder of ICON, reflects on the project; “This project was both an incredible honor and a true joy from a vehicle designer's perspective. Commissioned by a long-time ICON client with whom we’ve built a deep bond of trust, we were given the rare opportunity to push boundaries and ‘go further.’ The level of creative freedom we were afforded is something every custom designer dreams of. Immersing myself in the various art forms and traditions honored in this build was a deeply rewarding experience, making this project truly one-of-a-kind."