The Legendary Cherokee Reborn: Bigger, Smarter, and Electrified
The Resurgence of a Midsize Icon: Addressing a Strategic Gap
After a three-year pause following the discontinuation of the previous model in February 2023, Jeep is re-entering the midsize SUV segment with the completely redesigned 2026 Cherokee. The decision to step away from this crucial market proved costly, leading to a noticeable decline in sales for the brand. Recognizing this missed opportunity, Jeep has committed to delivering a compelling successor that aligns with contemporary automotive expectations.
A Familiar Silhouette, Enhanced for the Future
The sixth-generation Cherokee maintains its iconic upright, boxy profile and the signature seven-slot grille, ensuring instant recognition as a Jeep. However, a closer inspection reveals significant modernizations. The grille is now seamlessly integrated with updated LED lighting, and the overall exterior design has been meticulously refined through extensive wind tunnel testing, enhancing both aesthetics and aerodynamic efficiency.
Revolutionary Platform: The STLA Large Architecture
A pivotal change for the 2026 Cherokee is its adoption of the innovative STLA Large platform from Stellantis. This highly adaptable "multi-energy" architecture is engineered to support a diverse range of vehicles, from electric models like the Jeep Wagoneer S to upcoming Alfa Romeo sedans. This strategic shift allows for greater flexibility in powertrain options and vehicle configurations, future-proofing the Cherokee lineup.
Expanded Dimensions and Enhanced Practicality
The new Cherokee boasts increased dimensions, being 4.7 inches longer, an inch wider, and two inches taller than its predecessor, with a wheelbase stretched by 6.4 inches. These expanded proportions translate directly into a more spacious cabin, offering significantly improved legroom for rear passengers. Furthermore, cargo capacity sees a substantial 30% increase, providing 33.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a generous 68 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Introducing Hybrid Power: Efficiency Meets Performance
Demonstrating its commitment to electrification, Jeep introduces a hybrid powertrain as the sole propulsion system for the 2026 Cherokee at launch. This system combines two electric motors with a 1.6-liter transverse-mounted inline-four gasoline engine. Powered by a 1.0-kWh lithium-ion battery, which recharges through regenerative braking, this setup delivers a combined 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. While specific acceleration figures are yet to be released, the vehicle is rated for a 3,500-pound towing capacity and is projected to achieve an impressive 37 mpg combined, with EPA estimates of 42 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Stellantis has hinted at future powertrain variants, leveraging the STLA Large platform's versatility to potentially include conventional gasoline engines, plug-in hybrids, or range-extended options.
Diverse Trims and Uncompromised Off-Road Prowess
Jeep aims to cater to a wide spectrum of buyers by offering various trim levels, including a base model, Laredo, Limited, and Overland packages, with a "Trail-Rated" version anticipated in the near future. Even the initial trims maintain Jeep's legendary off-road capabilities, boasting eight inches of ground clearance, best-in-class approach and departure angles (19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively), and an 18.8-degree breakover angle. All Cherokees will feature the Jeep Active Drive 4x4 system with a fuel-saving rear axle disconnect and a four-mode Selec-Terrain management system for optimizing performance across different terrains like mud, sand, and snow.
Cutting-Edge Technology for a Modern Driving Experience
The 2026 Cherokee integrates a host of advanced technological features, both standard and optional. Drivers will benefit from a 360-degree surround-view monitor and a front tire-to-curb view system, enhancing maneuverability and safety in diverse driving conditions. The cabin is equipped with a new 12.3-inch high-resolution infotainment display and a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. The infotainment system, powered by the latest Uconnect 5 operating system, includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Amazon Alexa voice assistant as an optional add-on. All models will support over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring software remains current and optimized. In total, the new Cherokee will offer over 140 standard and optional safety features, including the Active Drive Assist, a semi-autonomous system comparable to GM's Super Cruise and Ford's BlueCruise.
Anticipated Pricing and Market Debut
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee will debut with a starting price of $36,995 for the base model, $39,995 for the Laredo, $42,495 for the Limited, and $45,995 for the Overland trim, with an additional $1,995 for delivery fees across all packages. Production is slated to begin in the autumn, with the first vehicles expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms by late 2025. Initially, the Cherokee will be exclusively available in North America, with all units assembled at the Stellantis plant in Toluca, Mexico.