JEEP

2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee test

Jeep is celebrating its 85th anniversary by reintroducing one of its iconic models. After a three-year absence, the Cherokee makes its grand return to the most competitive segment in the automotive industry.

The Jeep Cherokee took a brief hiatus in 2023 while the automaker prepared its successor. Now, after some time away, it is back. The new 2026 Cherokee is larger than the model it replaces, offering more standard technology and a hybrid powertrain. It arrives as a crucial addition to the Jeep lineup, aiming to make a strong impression in one of the most competitive segments in the industry—both in the U.S. and globally.

Built on the STLA Large platform, the 2026 Cherokee measures 4,777 mm in length, 2,123 mm in width (including mirrors), and 1,717 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,870 mm—152 mm longer than the previous generation. Cargo space has increased by 30%, while the exterior design retains the Jeep identity with boxy lines, a seven-slot grille, and horizontal taillights.

For off-road capability, the SUV features the Active Drive I system with four driving modes (Auto, Sport, Snow, and Mud/Sand), offering an approach angle of 19.6°, a departure angle of 29.4°, 203 mm of ground clearance, and a breakover angle of 18.8°. The Trailhawk version, currently under development, will feature Quadra-Lift air suspension and the Quadra-Drive II system.

The big news for the 2026 Cherokee is the introduction of a hybrid powertrain featuring Stellantis's 350-volt architecture, designed specifically for the SUV. It is the only powertrain available at launch, though other options are expected soon. It combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and two electric motors.

It is a full hybrid (non-plug-in). The electrical system is powered by a small 1.08 kWh battery, which is recharged by the internal combustion engine and regenerative braking.

This time around, look for a completely different product with a simplified model lineup, consistent nomenclature and revised pricing. Furthermore, Jeep aimed to create the ultimate do-it-all vehicle—a "Swiss Army knife" among compact SUVs. Mission accomplished? We went to Westlake Village, California to find out under a blazing sun.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is largely inspired from the XJ generation of the 1980s with a robust, boxy exterior, a vertical liftgate and the inevitable seven-slot grille that flows into the headlights. At the rear, the taillights are reminiscent of jerrycans. From our point of view, the new design successfully combines classic and modern touches.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee has grown in every dimension, making it one of the largest and roomiest compact SUVs on the market. Rear passengers benefit from wide seats and ample headroom and shoulder room. The floor is virtually flat, with just a subtle transmission tunnel bump, improving comfort for the middle passenger.

While Jeep is considering other options for the future, the 2026 Cherokee currently offers a hybrid powertrain exclusively. This is a brand new system that will meet competitors where they are. It combines a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, a 1.08kWh high-voltage battery and an electronically controlled CVT. Together, they produce 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque.

We think it’s a great match for the new Cherokee, resulting in dynamic performance. The beltless transmission is responsive and further enhances the driving experience. Sure, the engine will still scream when pushed, but excellent sound insulation greatly reduces noise levels inside the cabin while allowing occupants to fully appreciate the available Alpine audio system—a treat for the ears.

The system produces 213 hp and 31.8 kg-m of torque. Jeep claims the Cherokee will offer a range of over 800 km and deliver fuel economy of 15.7 km/l in combined city and highway driving. Jeep states that the SUV will accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 8.3 seconds.

The new Cherokee is built on Stellantis's STLA Large platform, measuring 4,777 mm in length, 2,123 mm in width (including mirrors), and 1,717 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,870 mm, which is approximately 152 mm longer than the previous model's. According to the automaker, these changes result in 30% more cargo space. Cherokee Off-Road Capability

The new Cherokee comes standard with Jeep’s Active Drive I 4x4 system, which features rear-axle disconnect and four drive modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Mud/Sand.

It also boasts class-leading approach and departure angles—19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively—along with 203 mm of ground clearance and a breakover angle of 18.8 degrees.

Jeep is currently developing a new Cherokee Trailhawk, though details remain under wraps. The previous model featured the full-time Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system, Quadra-Lift air suspension, underbody protection, and a suite of off-road upgrades.

Retro-inspired exterior and tech-filled cabin...The interior blends technology and comfort, featuring a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rotary gear selector that frees up console space. The driver-assistance package includes Level 2 ADAS, automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, park assist, and rain-sensing wipers. Depending on the trim level, features also include a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, a dual-pane sunroof, and a motion-activated liftgate.

The Cherokee arrives with an all-new design, yet Jeep took care to pay homage to the original XJ generation. The SUV features a simple style with a boxy, squared-off silhouette. U-shaped daytime running lights positioned around the LED headlights recall the XJ's square light units. At the rear, the new Cherokee features a sharp break in the C-pillar around the taillights, drawing inspiration from the design of military fuel cans.

Jeep has kept things simple inside as well. The dashboard retains the same general shape, featuring a steering wheel, similarly styled air vents, and a luxury-oriented cabin experience.

A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display come standard on the SUV. It runs the Uconnect 5 system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A new rotary gear selector frees up space on the center console—one of many areas where Jeep sought to maximize cabin storage. All versions of the new 2026 Cherokee will come standard with rain-sensing wipers, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, parking assist, and Active Driving Assist—a Level 2 advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS). Depending on the configuration, optional upgrades offered by Jeep will include a 360-degree camera, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, a front-tire curb-view camera, a dual-pane sunroof, and a motion-activated power liftgate.

As we mentioned, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee starts at $35,000. That’s for the base model and before a mandatory $1,995 destination charge. That’s several thousand dollars more than a Toyota RAV4 but in line with most other hybrid compact crossovers – especially if you’d have upgraded one of the others with all-wheel drive. Also, as we write, the RAV4 is in short supply and selling above its sticker price.

Other standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. So this isn’t a base-model SUV that screams “somebody didn’t get the upgrade.” The Laredo costs $3,000 more and has a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, fog lights, and the chance to buy a sunroof. Our Laredo test vehicle cost $41,590 with the sunroof and the destination charge. 

The next-up Limited is a relatively affordable upgrade. At $40,000 plus the destination charge, or $2,000 more than the Laredo, it has leatherette upholstery, a heated steering wheel, a power passenger seat, a wireless smartphone charger, and a power liftgate. It also has options for a premium stereo, a towing package, and GPS navigation. 

The top Overland, $43,000, includes those options along with big 20-inch wheels. It’s the only trim to offer ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a surround-view parking camera, or an automated parking system. If you’re attached to any of those items, you might find them for less money on a competitor. But overall, the Cherokee delivers reasonable equipment for the money. 

Autonews