The 2026 Jeep Cherokee marks a significant return to the compact crossover SUV segment after a three-year absence, a strategic pause reminiscent of Henry Ford’s Model T replacement blunder that left dealers with no cars for months. This belated re-entry, however, leverages the shifting societal and regulatory environment, potentially positioning the all-new Cherokee for success as an all-hybrid model built on the versatile STLA Large platform.

The new design signifies a clean break from the 2023 Cherokee, drawing heavily from the original XJ-generation Jeep Cherokee, which pioneered the unibody SUV segment. Design leader Vince Galante imbued the KM Cherokee with a boxy aesthetic, borrowing elements like the squared-off seven-slot grille, U-shaped daytime running lights, and XJ-ish trapezoidal wheel arches. The taillamps wrap around the corners with a new horizontal orientation, evocative of Jeep’s jerrycan look. An upright D-pillar with a Germanic Hofmeister kink and a more upright greenhouse directly address a key complaint of the outgoing KL Cherokee: insufficient cargo room, which now sees a substantial 25 percent increase.

Moving to Stellantis' STLA Large platform results in a more substantial vehicle. The 2026 Cherokee stretches 6.1 inches in overall length with axles 6.5 inches farther apart (5.9 inches relative to the previous-generation Trailhawk), making it either the largest compact or smallest midsize SUV, comparable to models like the Honda CR-V, Ford Bronco Sport, Toyota RAV4, and Chevy Equinox. Width increases by 1.5 inches, while height drops by 0.3 inches. Nearly every interior dimension improves, enhancing class competitiveness. Jeep has also focused on upgrading material quality, with top-line Overland models featuring fancy perforation patterns on seat inserts, and the top three trims offering an “Arctic” interior color scheme in addition to the standard black.

For its launch, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee will be 100 percent hybrid, utilizing an all-new powertrain: a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with a two-motor planetary combiner hybrid system, storing power in a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion (NCM) battery located under the rear passenger compartment. This system, originally patented by Toyota and made royalty-free through 2030, delivers a combined net output of 210 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque (177 hp and 221 lb-ft from the engine alone). While this output subdivides the previous 2.4-liter naturally aspirated and 2.0-liter turbocharged options, the new Cherokee maintains a respectable 3,500-pound tow capacity, only 500 pounds shy of the old 2.0L turbo’s.

Fuel efficiency marks a significant improvement over the previous model. While official numbers are pending, Jeep anticipates EPA city/highway/combined ratings of 42/33/37 mpg. This substantially outperforms the old model’s 20–21/26–29/22–24 mpg. Consequently, the new Jeep’s 13.7-gallon tank provides an impressive estimated range of 507 miles, far exceeding the previous 15.8-gallon tank’s 348–379 miles. Jeep also suggests average American commuters could spend less than $100 per month on gas.

Naturally, all-wheel drive is standard on the Cherokee, powered by an Active Drive 1 system. This setup features a power takeoff from the transverse hybrid powertrain, driving the rear axle on demand. It disconnects when not in use to reduce friction and save fuel, automatically re-engaging as needed. Clutch slippage prevents front-rear binding in tight turns. Active Drive 1 includes Auto, Sand, Snow, and Mud programs, with a front-rear torque split varying from 100/0 to 50/50. Minimum ground clearance is 8.0 inches. The 19.6-degree approach angle is competitive, while the 29.4-degree departure angle ranks best in class. Although no dedicated Trailhawk off-road version with locking differentials will be available at launch, such revisions are expected to appear later.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee launches with a premium pricing structure. The base model starts at $36,995, coming nicely equipped with a standard roof rack, a 10.3-inch cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a host of safety features. This positions it close to the entry-level Grand Cherokee Laredo. Other trims include the Laredo at $39,995, the Limited at $42,495, and the top-tier Overland at $45,995. The Limited and Overland trims will go on sale late 2025, with the Base and Laredo following in early 2026. This pricing is considered