On the other hand, if that ad is actually the first (known) usage of the term, it recognizes the existence of an already-existing field that Jeep is at that moment entering. So if that ad is the origin of the term, then the Cherokee can’t be the first one.
Before the Cherokee there was the Kaiser Jeep Wagoneer (1963-1970), and before that the 2WD Willys Jeep Station Wagon and the 4WD Utility Wagon (1946-1964). I would call those SUVs.
Just saw this: The 4WD Willys Jeep Wagon is often considered the first production sport utility vehicle.
Yes, and I think most of us would call them suv’s today, as well.
But the term wasnt applied to them contemporaneously. So, it’s kinda a chicken/egg thing. Did the vehicle beget the name or did the name beget the vehicle?
I’m asking about the ‘concept’ of an SUV, not the original usage of the term.
How about the International Harvester Scout?
I think the Willys beat the Scout by a decade and a half.