The 2026 Jeep Cherokee has arrived, and the new model brings the Cherokee back from a short hiatus in a new shape— and sporting an efficient hybrid powertrain.
Jeep strayed from the Cherokee’s original boxy design with the previous generation, but the squared-off look is back for 2026. The traditional seven-slot grille plays a prominent role up front, while a boatload of plastic trim aims to project a rugged image. (Those LED taillights are particularly distinctive, and only serve to accentuate the angular look.)
Jeep also went larger than the last Cherokee for the new generation, as it now rides on the STLA Large platform. Practically speaking, Jeep brags it has one extra inch of rear legroom and 30% more cargo capacity than before.
Even more of a big story than the design, though, is the the new powertrain. The system consists of a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, two electric motors and a small (1.08 kWh) battery pack. Unlike other Jeep hybrids, this one is not a PHEV, hence the lack of 4xe branding. The engine itself is new to the U.S., but it’s the third generation of this 1.6-turbo that Jeep’s offered in Europe for years now. On its own, the engine pushes out 177 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque; total system output (when helped along by the electric motors) sits at 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. Power is routed through what Jeep is calling its “EVT,” which is a new transmission developed for this application.
Will it be quick? We’re not expecting much, because curb weight stands at 4295 pounds thanks to the weighty hybrid components. That said, Jeep is claiming 37 mpg combined, which is the real goal of this efficient powertrain. Towing is also possible, with Jeep quoting a 3500-pound capacity.
Jeep says all-wheel drive is standard; the SUV will cruise around in FWD mode most of the time, with automatic 4x4 engagement when necessary. There’s nothing fancy going on underneath, as it has a single-speed transfer case and open differentials. That said, Jeep says it comes with Selec-Terrain traction management with Snow and Sand/Mud modes for off-road driving. It also has respectable clearance figures, boasting 8.0 inches of ground clearance alongside approach and departure angles of 19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively.
Anyone with real off-road intentions will want to wait for the Trailhawk variant to come out. The outgoing Cherokee Trailhawk had great off-roading tools like Jeep’s two-speed Power Transfer Unit, mechanically-locking rear differential, a lift and additional off-road drive modes on top of unique fascias for better approach/departure angle; Jeep says a new Cherokee Trailhawk is planned for a later date, but wouldn’t provide any specific details.
There’s little hint to the Cherokee’s ruggedness inside the cabin, as Jeep slathers it in classy appointments and large screens. Every Cherokee comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment running UConnect 5 that offers wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a 10.3-inch digital cluster. It’s like a baby Grand Cherokee interior, which is no bad thing if the aim is a classy and polished look.
The price is on the high side of this class, reflecting the upscale attempt Jeep is gunning for. A base Cherokee starts all the way at $38,990 before options. However, the more luxurious Limited and Overland trims will hit dealers first, priced at $44,490 and $47,990 respectively. Jeep is building this new Cherokee in Mexico, and examples are scheduled to hit dealers in early 2026.
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