How does the 2026 Jeep Cherokee’s new look set it apart from previous models?
Take one glance at the 2026 Jeep Cherokee and you’ll spot the difference right away. Jeep’s designers have leaned into a bold, upright front end—think slender grille, rectangular headlights, and a stance that’s both modern and a subtle nod to the beloved Cherokee XJ. The bodywork is more angular, with pronounced cladding that gives it a muscular edge. Flush-mounted door handles and a choice of 17- to 20-inch wheels (wrapped in either Nexen Roadian GTX or Pirelli Scorpion MS tires) add to the upscale vibe.
Out back, the stylized liftgate and taillights inspired by classic jerry cans offer a playful wink to Jeep’s rugged roots. The dimensions tell the rest of the story: at 188.1 inches long, 83.6 inches wide, and 67.5 inches tall, the new Cherokee is notably larger than before. The wheelbase stretches an extra 6.4 inches, translating to a roomier cabin and a more commanding presence on the road.
What’s changed inside the cabin, and does it feel more premium?
Step inside, and you’ll notice the Cherokee’s interior has taken a leap forward. Drawing inspiration from the Wagoneer S, the cabin is open, minimalist, and surprisingly airy. The squared-off steering wheel sits in front of a crisp 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, while a 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system anchors the dash. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come standard, making connectivity a breeze.
Jeep has gone all-in on tech, bundling every Cherokee with a ten-year Connect One subscription. That means over-the-air updates, emergency calls, and seamless integration with the Jeep smartphone app. The center console is streamlined, featuring a rotary gear selector and a compact Selec-Terrain switch with Auto, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud modes.
Physical buttons are mostly gone—climate controls and a few key functions remain, but even the door handles have been replaced by digital latches. It’s a bold move, and while some may miss the tactile feedback of old-school knobs, the result is a clean, modern look.
Eco-conscious buyers will appreciate the shift away from leather to Capri vinyl, which sports a unique perforation pattern on the Overland trim. Recycled materials show up in the headliner, carpeting, and soft trims, underscoring Jeep’s push toward sustainability.
How does the new Cherokee balance space and practicality?
Despite its larger footprint, the 2026 Cherokee makes a few trade-offs. Second-row legroom drops from 40.3 to 38.5 inches, but headroom and shoulder room are up—rear passengers get an extra 2.5 inches of shoulder space and 5.2 inches of hip room. Even taller adults will find the back seat comfortable for longer trips.
Cargo space is where the Cherokee really shines. With 33.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a whopping 68.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, you get 30% more storage than before. That’s a big win for families, road-trippers, and anyone who hauls gear on the regular.
Jeep hasn’t revealed every option just yet, but expect heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a dual-pane sunroof, Alpine audio, and a hands-free power liftgate among the available upgrades.
What’s under the hood, and how does the hybrid system perform?
Jeep’s big news for 2026 is the Cherokee’s all-new hybrid powertrain. At its heart is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 177 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. That’s paired with two electric motors, an electronically controlled CVT, and a 1.08 kWh lithium-ion battery. The combined output? 210 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque—enough for confident merging and passing, with the added benefit of instant torque from the electric motors.
Stellantis’ head of global propulsion, Micky Bly, emphasizes that “torque comes on early and stays strong.” The hybrid system has been tested over thousands of miles, so it’s not just a paper promise.
Efficiency is a highlight: 42 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined. That’s a major step up for a midsize SUV, especially one with standard four-wheel drive and a rear-axle disconnect for extra efficiency.
How does the Cherokee stack up against rivals like the RAV4 and Tucson Hybrid?
The hybrid crossover market is fiercely competitive, and the Cherokee faces some tough opponents. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offers up to 236 hp, while the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid comes in at 231 hp and up to 38 mpg combined. The Cherokee’s 210 hp is a bit lower, but its fuel economy is right in the mix, and the Jeep badge brings a certain off-road credibility.
On the practical side, the Cherokee rides on the STLA Large platform and can tow up to 3,500 lbs—less than the outgoing model, but still respectable for the class. Curb weight has increased to 4,295 lbs, which is the price you pay for more tech and a bigger body.
For those who like to venture off the beaten path, the Cherokee boasts approach and departure angles of 19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively—best-in-class, according to Jeep. Eight inches of ground clearance should satisfy most weekend adventurers, though hardcore off-roaders may want to wait for the Trailhawk version.
What safety and tech features can buyers expect?
Jeep isn’t skimping on driver assistance. Standard features include active driving assist (combining adaptive cruise control and lane centering), intersection collision assist, rear park assist with automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross path detection. Forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection is also included.
Optional tech like a 360-degree camera system and blind-spot view monitoring (which activates when you use your turn signal) add peace of mind, especially in busy urban settings or tight parking lots.
How much does the 2026 Cherokee cost, and when will it be available?
Here’s where things get interesting. The 2026 Cherokee starts at $36,995 (including a $1,995 destination fee), which is $2,035 more than the Tucson Hybrid and $5,260 more than the Kia Sportage Hybrid. It’s also likely to be pricier than the upcoming RAV4 Hybrid, which currently starts at $34,050.
Trim levels and pricing break down as follows:
Cherokee: $36,995
Cherokee Laredo: $39,995
Cherokee Limited: $42,495
Cherokee Overland: $45,995
Deliveries are set for late this year, starting with the Limited and Overland trims. The base Cherokee and Laredo will follow in early 2026. All models will be imported from Toluca, Mexico.
What’s the real-world verdict on the new Cherokee?
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is a confident step forward—bigger, more refined, and finally embracing hybrid power. It’s not the cheapest option in its class, nor the most powerful, but it brings a unique blend of style, tech, and Jeep DNA to the table. The interior feels genuinely premium, cargo space is generous, and the hybrid system promises real savings at the pump.
The big takeaway? The new Cherokee isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.