The redesigned Jeep Cherokee has returned, presenting a larger, more refined, and efficient vehicle that marks a significant evolution for the nameplate. It now enters the competitive hybrid crossover market with a new powertrain that achieves an impressive 37 mpg combined. This new model successfully marries the rugged, off-road heritage of Jeep with a more modern, premium feel.
The 2026 Cherokee has grown considerably, measuring 4,778 mm long, 2,123 mm wide, and 1,715 mm tall. Its wheelbase now extends to 2,870 mm. These new dimensions mean it's 119 mm longer, 25 mm wider, and 50 mm taller than its predecessor, with an additional 163 mm between the wheels, resulting in a much more spacious interior.
Its exterior styling takes inspiration from the classic Cherokee XJ. The front features a "super vertical" design with a slim grille and rectangular headlights, creating a striking first impression. Angular body lines and heavy cladding give it a tough, ready-for-anything look. Designers also gave it a large greenhouse for better visibility and flush-mounted door handles for a sleeker profile. The vehicle can be equipped with 17- to 20-inch wheels, wrapped in either Nexen or Pirelli all-season tires. At the back, a stylized liftgate pays homage to the XJ with subtle cut lines, though the eye is more likely to be drawn to the contrasting black license plate recess and taillights inspired by jerry cans.
The interior of the new Cherokee is a major step up, mirroring the luxurious design of the Wagoneer S. The cabin feels open and minimalist, with a squared-off steering wheel and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver. A 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system dominates the center stack, featuring wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The center console has been simplified, featuring a rotary gear selector and a small Selec-Terrain switch with multiple driving modes (Auto, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud). The traditional buttons and knobs from the previous model have been largely replaced by on-screen controls, though some dedicated physical buttons for climate control remain. In an unconventional move, the door handles have been replaced by "digital latches." Jeep has noted that a number of comfort and tech features will be available, including heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a digital rearview mirror, a dual-pane sunroof, an Alpine audio system, and a foot-activated power liftgate.
In a push for sustainability, the Cherokee has moved away from real leather. The premium upholstery is now Capri vinyl, which, while seemingly nice, may not satisfy those who prefer genuine leather. This eco-friendly focus extends to the use of recycled materials in the headliner, carpeting, and other soft-trim components.
Despite its increased external size, the new Cherokee has less second-row legroom (977 mm vs. 1,023 mm), which is a surprising decrease. However, it compensates with more shoulder and hip room for rear passengers, along with a significant 30% increase in cargo capacity. The rear storage space is now 952 liters with the second row up and 1,934 liters with the seats folded down.
A wide array of safety and driver-assistance systems come standard. This includes Active Driving Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering, as well as Intersection Collision Assist, Rear Park Assist with automatic emergency braking, and Blind-Spot Monitoring. Optional features include a 360° camera and a system that displays blind spots when a turn signal is used.
The heart of the new Cherokee is a hybrid powertrain. It combines a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (177 hp, 300 Nm of torque) with two electric motors, an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, and a 1.08 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This system delivers a combined output of 210 hp and 312 Nm of torque. It comes standard with a four-wheel-drive system that includes a rear-axle disconnect to optimize efficiency, helping it achieve 42 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
The new Cherokee, built on the STLA Large platform, has a towing capacity of 1,587 kg, which is less than its predecessor. It is also a heavier vehicle, with its curb weight climbing from 1,758 kg to 1,948 kg. The price starts at $36,995, including a $1,995 destination fee, making it more expensive than several of its key competitors. Initial deliveries of the Limited and Overland trims are expected to begin late this year, with the more affordable Cherokee and Laredo variants following in early 2026. All models will be imported from Toluca, Mexico.