2026 Jeep Cherokee revealed with hybrid option and higher price

2026 Jeep Cherokee debuts with hybrid

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee was revealed on August 22, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York. Jeep introduced a new hybrid powertrain combining its design with modern technology. LL Cool J promoted the SUV in a 60-second video highlighting its return to the midsize SUV segment.

The hybrid system combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, two electric motors, and a compact battery. Total output is 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. The system delivers an estimated 37 mpg combined and over 500 miles of range on a single tank and charge.

Cherokee redesign increases space and storage

Jeep increased the 2026 Cherokee’s length, width, and height compared to the 2014–2023 generation. Cargo capacity rose 30 percent, enough to fit a large dog crate with folded seats. The cabin includes a rotary gear selector that adds storage space while maintaining a practical layout.

Interior design follows four themes: active, playful, practical, and progressive. Sustainable materials include recycled carpets and non-leather upholstery. Higher trims feature refined finishes and unique perforation patterns.

Exterior draws from Cherokee heritage

The 2026 Cherokee keeps a boxy silhouette while being longer, taller, and wider than previous models. The front grille retains Jeep’s seven-slot design with sharp LED headlights featuring U-shaped running lights. Rear taillights are jerrican-inspired for recognizable styling.

Squared edges distinguish it from the curvier 2014–2023 model. Bold surfaces give a modern look while reflecting heritage. Jeep drew inspiration from five decades of Cherokee styling. The SUV’s exterior combines iconic Jeep cues with new dimensions for visibility.

Advanced safety systems included

The 2026 Cherokee offers 140 standard and available safety features, including Active Driving Assist, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, drowsy driver alerts, and intersection collision assist.

The SUV includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Stellantis’ Connect One package provides 10 years of over-the-air updates, emergency SOS, and app connectivity at no extra cost.

Optional features enhance comfort

Optional features include a dual-pane sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system. Uconnect 5 AppMarket allows users to download apps and subscribe to features such as Wi-Fi hotspots or Jeep Off-Road Pages Plus.

The Cherokee comes standard with Jeep Active Drive I 4×4 and Selec-Terrain traction management. Driving modes include Auto, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud. Ground clearance is eight inches, approach and departure angles are 19.6 and 29.4 degrees, and breakover angles are 18.8 degrees. These specifications maintain off-road capability.

Hybrid powertrain and production

The hybrid powertrain is produced at Stellantis’ Dundee Engine Plant in Michigan. Stellantis is investing in electrified technology for North America through this plant, according to Autoevolution.

The Cherokee SUV is assembled at Stellantis’ Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico. Combining engine production in Michigan with assembly in Mexico allows Jeep to meet production requirements while delivering a hybrid SUV with both efficiency and off-road capability.

Pricing and trim information

Base pricing for the 2026 Cherokee is $36,995, including destination. Laredo trim starts at $39,995. Limited and Overland trims are priced at $42,495 and $45,995, respectively, according to Autoevolution.

Limited and Overland trims reach dealerships in late 2025. Entry-level and Laredo trims arrive in early 2026. Jeep positioned the base model under $40,000 for competitiveness, while higher trims include additional features. Pricing is aimed at covering a broad range of midsize SUV buyers.

Early spy shots reveal exterior

In June 2025, spy photos showed the 2026 Cherokee uncovered. Boxy proportions and a more upright face maintain Jeep’s seven-slot grille with a new design. Headlights, hood, bumper, and profile differ from the previous generation.

The rear has a split-style tailgate and a utilitarian bumper. Rear lamps adopt a jerry-can-inspired motif for a distinctive signature. Exterior updates are factual, showing the new Cherokee’s dimensions, styling cues, and functional design

Interior layout and infotainment

Inside, the 2026 Cherokee has air vents above a large infotainment screen. The digital instrument cluster is integrated into the dashboard. Cabin layout is similar to Wagoneer S, according to spy shots.

The center console includes touch-sensitive HVAC buttons and cup holders. Steering wheel design differs from previous models. Test units do not include a front passenger display. Interior design facts reflect the placement of technology, infotainment, and practical controls.

STLA Large platform supports hybrid

Multiple outlets report the new Cherokee appears to share STLA Large underpinnings with vehicles like the Wagoneer S and Charger; Jeep has not formally confirmed the platform in its press release.

It shares multiple components with the Wagoneer S and the upcoming Recon SUV. Hybrid power is introduced first, with EV variants expected later. Platform flexibility allows Jeep to use the same foundation for future hybrid and electric models.

Previous Cherokee KL history

The Cherokee KL launched for the 2014 model year at the 2013 New York Auto Show. A 2019 refresh added new styling, technology, and a 2.0-liter turbo engine. Production continued until 2023 at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois.

KL engines included multiple gasoline options paired with a nine-speed automatic. Infotainment had Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Interior upgrades included soft-touch materials, armrest storage, and improved cabin features.

Cherokee KL sales and plant closure

The Jeep Cherokee KL remained in production until February 2023 at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois. According to reports, Stellantis idled the plant that year, impacting more than 1,300 workers.

Cherokee sales in the United States declined in later years, leading to reduced output before the shutdown. From 2014 through 2022, the Cherokee sold steadily but saw increased competition in the midsize SUV market. By 2022, annual sales had fallen below earlier highs. The discontinuation preceded Jeep’s move toward electrified SUV models.

1984 Cherokee XJ launches

The 1984 Jeep Cherokee XJ was the first unibody crossover. It carried five passengers and had a large rear trunk. Production began after Renault invested in AMC in 1979.

Exterior design included a seven-slot grille, rectangular headlights, slim bumpers, and flat surfaces. The interior had a square dashboard, HVAC unit, and stereo. Front bucket seats and rear bench accommodated passengers. The XJ introduced a lightweight, durable design for off-road and urban use.

XJ drivetrain and off-road features

The 1984 Cherokee XJ had a four-link front axle and shift-on-the-fly 4×2 to 4×4. Selec-Trac all-wheel drive was optional for off-road use.

Engines included a 2.5-liter AMC inline-four or a 2.8-liter V6, paired with four- or five-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmissions. Renault assisted with drivetrain development to ensure durability. XJ’s technical design focused on off-road capability and drivetrain flexibility.

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Evolution to 2026 Cherokee hybrid

From the 1984 XJ to the 2019 KL and 2026 hybrid, the Cherokee evolved in design, efficiency, and technology. Jeep combined heritage styling with modern hybrid power, expanded passenger space, advanced infotainment, and safety features.

The 2026 Cherokee provides 37 mpg combined, over 500 miles of range, and hybrid efficiency. Cargo capacity increased by 30 percent, and trims include premium finishes. Pricing under $40,000 makes the base model accessible, while higher trims are equipped with advanced features.

Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa has shared the company’s detailed strategy to face the upcoming 2025 industry challenges head-on. Full story in CEO Antonio Filosa outlines Stellantis’ strategy to overcome 2025 challenges.

New Cherokee, new price — what do you think?

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.