The Jeep Cherokee Is Back—And It’s a Hybrid

The Jeep Cherokee took a brief hiatus in 2023 as the automaker prepared its successor. Now, after some much-needed time off, it’s back. The all-new 2026 Cherokee is larger than the model it replaces, offering more standard technology and a hybrid powertrain. It arrives as a crucial addition to Jeep’s lineup, aiming to make a strong impression in one of the industry’s most competitive segments.

Launching in the Cherokee is a new 350-volt hybrid powertrain from Stellantis, designed specifically for this crossover. It’s also the only powertrain available at launch, but additional options are expected soon. It pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a two-motor electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. It has no plug and a tiny, 1.08-kilowatt-hour battery fed by the engine and by regenerative braking.

The system produces 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. Jeep claims the Cherokee will offer over 500 miles of range, can return 37 miles per gallon combined, and will run to 60 miles per hour in 8.3 seconds.

The new Cherokee rides on Stellantis’s STLA Large platform, measuring 188.1 inches long, 83.6 inches wide (with mirrors), and 67.6 inches tall. It has a 113.0-inch wheelbase, which is approximately six inches longer than the old one. All the changes result in 30 percent more cargo room, according to the automaker.

Cherokee’s Off-Road Capability

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Source: Jeep

The new Cherokee comes standard with Jeep’s Active Drive I 4×4 system, which includes a rear-axle disconnect and four drive modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Mud/Sand.

It also boasts best-in-class approach and departure angles—19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively—along with 8.0 inches of ground clearance and an 18.8-degree breakover angle.

Jeep is currently developing a new Cherokee Trailhawk, though details remain under wraps. The previous model featured the Quadra-Drive II full-time 4×4 system, Quadra-Lift air suspension, underbody protection, and a suite of off-road upgrades. 

Retro-Infused Exterior & A Tech-Packed Cabin

The Cherokee arrives wearing an all-new design, but Jeep took care to pay tribute to the original XJ. The crossover has simple styling with a blocky and boxy silhouette. The U-shaped daytime running lights, positioned around the LED headlights, harken back to the XJ’s square units. At the rear, the new Cherokee has a sharp D-pillar break around the taillights, drawing styling inspiration from military jerry cans.

Jeep keeps things simple on the inside, too. It has a familiar appearance if you’ve peered inside a Wagoneer S. The dashboard has the same general shape, with a steering squircle, similarly styled vents, and an otherwise luxury-oriented cabin experience.

Photo by: Jeep

Photo by: Jeep

Photo by: Jeep

A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment displays are standard in the SUV. It runs Uconnect 5 with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A new rotary gear selector frees up space in the center console, one of many areas where Jeep tried to maximize storage.

Each new Cherokee has rain-sensing wipers, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear-park assist, and Active Driving Assist, a Level 2 assistance system. Some of the optional upgrades Jeep will offer, depending on the trim, include a 360-degree camera, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, front tire-to-curb view, a dual-pane sunroof, and a foot-activated power liftgate.

Photo by: Jeep

2026 Jeep Cherokee Pricing and On-Sale Date

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee goes on sale later this year, with the top two trims, Limited and Overland, arriving first. They cost $44,490 and $47,990, respectively (prices include the $1,995 destination charge). The entry-level Cherokee will start at $38,990, which is $200 cheaper than before, while Jeep prices the mid-grade Laredo at $41,990. They will begin arriving at dealers in early 2026.