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2026 Jeep Cherokee: New design includes hybrid powertrain

2026 Jeep Cherokee Overland. [Credit: All images courtesy of Jeep/Stellantis]

 

 

The all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee features an impressive blend of iconic design, capability, and efficiency to provide customers with a solid, go-anywhere midsize SUV. With a new 1.6-liter turbo-four hybrid engine, an estimated 37 mpg combined, and more than 500 miles to a tank of fuel, the 2026 Cherokee is ready to take adventures farther than ever.

This is the first Jeep brand hybrid system (traditional, that is not a plug-in like the Jeep 4xe models), and a Stellantis first in North America. The Limited and Overland trims will arrive at showrooms in late 2025, with the entry-level Cherokee trim and Laredo hitting dealers in early 2026.

"The new 1.6-liter hybrid engine is a major step forward in delivering both performance and efficiency for our customers," said Micky Bly, Stellantis senior vice president and head of Global Propulsion Systems. "Over millions of miles of development and testing, we've dialed in this new hybrid powertrain to deliver all the performance you need for your daily adventures, with electrified torque and worry-free range wherever the road takes you."

Composed of an internal-combustion engine, two electric motors, and a battery, the propulsion system delivers 210 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque. Production of the innovative new propulsion system will take place at Stellantis' Dundee Engine Plant in Michigan.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee continues to provide legendary 4x4 capability and a host of class-exclusive and best-in-class features including:

• Standard Jeep Active Drive I 4x4 system with standard rear-axle disconnect;
• Selec-Terrain traction management with four driving modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, Sand/Mud;
• Best-in-class approach and departure angles of 19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively;
• Breakover angle of 18.8 degrees; and
• Eight inches of ground clearance.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee carries an all-new, redesigned exterior that looks to the past for 50 years of inspiration but wears a distinctly modern look. This Cherokee is longer, taller, and wider than the previous version. It features sharp edges to recall beloved Cherokee models from yesteryear, and the design team worked to create a more upright character. The front fascia includes boxy, squared-off LED headlights with daytime running light accents that create a distinct U-shape. The overarching profile is simple and squared-off. It plays with big, bold shapes that are distinctly Jeep.

"These bold, upright shapes are complemented by Jeep's iconic seven-slot grille, boxy side profile, and distinctive jerrican-inspired taillight design, giving it an instantly recognizable signature on the road," said Vince Galante, vice president, Jeep Global Design.

Inside, Jeep brand designers worked to incorporate four key motifs: active, playful, practical, and progressive. With a larger cockpit and more interior storage than any Cherokee before, the 2026 Cherokee also blends elevated material choices for the segment. This includes a unique perforation pattern for the Cherokee Overland trim. Sustainability remains a goal for Jeep designers as well, including non-leather materials, recycled materials for the floor carpets, and more.

A Global Black interior motif is standard on the 2026 Cherokee, while an Arctic interior is optional on Laredo, Limited, and Overland trims.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee boasts a larger, technology-filled interior space that is ready to tackle any adventure. Standard on every trim:

• A 10.25-in. full-color digital instrument cluster;
• A 12.3-in. infotainment screen equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability;
• Jeep brand's award-winning Uconnect 5 infotainment system;
• Passive entry system;
• Rain-sensing wipers;
• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist identification;
• Intersection Collision Assist;
• Blind-spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path detection;
• Drowsy Driver Detection;
• Active Driving Assist system (Level 2 driver-assistance system with adaptive cruise control); and
• Rear park assist with rear automatic emergency braking.

2026 Jeep Cherokee Limited.

 

 

Every 2026 Cherokee comes standard with Stellantis' new Connect One connected services package -- a value-packed, simplified bundle for customers. This standard package includes 10 years of service for over-the-air (OTA) updates, Jeep brand smartphone app for vehicle functions, automatic SOS calls, and more at no additional cost. Customers may upgrade to a subscription to the Connect Wi-Fi Plus package, which provides unlimited data and numerous other features.

Optional equipment includes:

• Dual-pane sunroof;
• Foot-activated power liftgate with adjustable height;
• 360-degree camera;
• Digital rearview mirror;
• Heated rear seats;
• Ventilated front seats;
• Windshield wiper de-icer;
• Front tire-to-curb view;
• Turn signal-activated blind spot;
• Premium audio; and
• Alexa in-vehicle assistant.

One more thing. There are more ways the 2026 Jeep Cherokee maximizes space -- not only with a new rotary gear selector to make room for everyday items inside, but for cargo space. Compared to the previous Cherokee, the 2026 model boasts 30% more cargo capacity, which is akin to fitting an additional large dog crate in the rear with the seats folded down.

The entry-level, well-equipped 2026 Jeep Cherokee starts at $36,995. The Laredo trim starts at $39,995. Limited and Overland trims start at $42,495 and $45,995, respectively.

Learn more at jeep.com/cherokee.html.

Source: Jeep/Stellantis

Published September 2025

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