After a three-year hiatus from the highly competitive compact crossover SUV segment, Jeep is re-entering the market with the all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee. This return is a critical strategic move for Stellantis, drawing parallels to Henry Ford's historical blunder with the Model T, which taught carmakers to have successors ready before discontinuing predecessors. The anticipation is that the new Cherokee, designed for a shifting societal and regulatory environment, will be better positioned for success than a model conceived earlier. Positioning itself as either the largest compact or smallest midsize SUV, the 2026 Cherokee aims to reclaim its foothold.

The design of the 2026 Cherokee marks a significant departure from its curvy 2023 predecessor, embracing a nostalgic yet modern aesthetic. Design leader Vince Galante drew inspiration from the original XJ-generation Jeep Cherokee, the model credited with pioneering the unibody SUV segment. The new KM Cherokee adopts a substantial boxiness, incorporating a squared-off seven-slot grille flanked by U-shaped daytime running lights reminiscent of the original rectangular sealed-beams. It features XJ-ish trapezoidal arches housing standard 18-inch and optional 20-inch wheels, and taillamps that wrap around the corners in a horizontal orientation, evocative of Jeep’s jerrycan look. The upright, boxy D-pillar is embellished with a Germanic Hofmeister kink, directly addressing a key complaint of the outgoing KL Cherokee: insufficient cargo room, which sees a substantial 25 percent increase in the new model.

Built on Stellantis' STLA Large platform, the 2026 Cherokee experiences significant growth in its dimensions. It boasts a 6.1-inch increase in overall length and a 6.5-inch longer wheelbase. While its width is up by 1.5 inches, its height drops by 0.3 inch, contributing to a more imposing presence that blurs the lines between compact and midsize SUVs. Nearly every interior dimension has been improved, enhancing its competitiveness within the class. Jeep has also made a conscious effort to elevate material quality, with upper trim levels, particularly the Overland models, featuring sophisticated seat inserts with fancy perforation patterns. An 'Arctic' interior color scheme is available for the top three trims, complementing the standard black interior.

For its launch, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee will exclusively offer an all-new hybrid powertrain. The STLA Large platform provides the flexibility for future variants, including battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, or pure combustion options, but the initial offering focuses on electrification. This powertrain combines a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with a two-motor planetary combiner hybrid system, powered by a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion (NCM) battery positioned under the rear passenger compartment. Notably, Stellantis has leveraged Toyota's patented hybrid design, which Toyota made royalty-free through 2030, marking a strategic adoption of proven electrification technology.

Performance and efficiency are key highlights of the new Cherokee. The 1.6-liter engine produces 177 hp at 5,500 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. The net total output for the hybrid system is 210 hp and 230 lb-ft. This power output sits between the previous Cherokee's 2.4-liter naturally aspirated and 2.0-liter turbocharged engine options. Despite being a hybrid, it maintains a respectable 3,500-pound tow capacity, falling just 500 pounds short of the old 2.0L turbo's rating. Fuel efficiency sees a dramatic improvement, with estimated EPA city/highway/combined ratings of 42/33/37 mpg, a significant leap from the previous generation's 20–21/26–29/22–24 mpg. This efficiency translates to an impressive 507 miles of range from a 13.7-gallon tank, potentially saving average American commuters less than $100 per month on gas.

As expected from a Jeep, all-wheel drive is standard on the new Cherokee, featuring Active Drive 1, which utilizes a power takeoff from the transverse hybrid powertrain to drive the rear axle on demand. This system intelligently disconnects when not needed to reduce friction and save fuel, automatically re-engaging for greater traction. Active Drive 1 offers selectable modes including Auto, Sand, Snow, and Mud, with a front–rear torque split that varies from 100/0 to 50/50. While a more focused Trailhawk off-road version with locking differentials is not available at launch, it is anticipated to arrive soon. The current model offers an 8.0-inch minimum ground clearance, a 19.6-degree approach angle, and a best-in-class 29.4-degree departure angle, demonstrating real SUV capabilities for light off-road enthusiasts.

Inside, the new Cherokee addresses previous shortcomings in cargo and passenger space. The squared-off rear styling and extended bodywork have resulted in a substantial increase in cargo volume: 13.6 cubic feet more with the seats folded, and a 30 percent increase with the rear seats up, totaling 33.6 cubic feet. This figure, however, only marginally bests the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Forester hybrids and falls short of class leaders like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. Curiously, rear legroom has actually decreased by 1.8 inches compared to the last-generation model. Despite this, the Cherokee excels in rear shoulder room, making it a compelling choice for journeys with multiple passengers.

The pricing strategy for the 2026 Jeep Cherokee positions it at a premium within the compact hybrid SUV segment. The base model starts at $36,995, followed by the Laredo at $39,995, the Limited at $42,495, and the top-tier Overland at $45,995. The two most affordable trims will launch in early 2026, while the Limited and Overland will be available late 2025. This pricing is notably higher than many competitors, for instance, $2,945 more than a base 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE AWD, and significantly more than various Kia Sportage Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid trims. Jeep appears to be banking on pent-up demand following its market absence, and the fact that the Cherokee is exclusively hybrid at launch (unlike many rivals offering cheaper gas-only versions) contributes to its higher entry price point. Industry observers suggest that incentives or decontenting may be necessary to align prices more competitively, especially given that Jeep does not currently match the residual value of brands like Honda or Toyota.

Key specifications for the 2026 Jeep Cherokee include a base price ranging from $36,995 to $45,995. It features a front-engine, all-wheel-drive layout, seating 5 passengers in a 4-door SUV body. The powertrain consists of a 1.6L turbocharged direct-injected DOHC 16-valve I-4 engine producing 177 hp and 221 lb-ft, combined with electric motors for a net total of 210 hp and 230 lb-ft. Power is managed by a continuously variable automatic transmission. The manufacturer-estimated curb weight is 4,300 lb, with a wheelbase of 113.0 inches and overall dimensions of 188.1 inches (L) x 74.7 inches (W) x 67.5 inches (H). MotorTrend estimates a 0–60 MPH time of 8.0 seconds. Estimated EPA fuel economy stands at 42/33/37 mpg (city/highway/combined), providing an estimated combined range of 507 miles. The top two trims are slated for sale late 2025, with the entry-level models following in early 2026.