2026 Jeep Cherokee: The Grand Cherokee is expected to undergo an update with a new, more elegant concept. In other words, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee will undoubtedly maintain its position in the class focused on countering the Honda Passport and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, focusing more on highway capabilities than off-road.
Previously, we knew the three-row Honda Pilot was redesigned to have an off-road trim similar to the Grand Cherokee. It certainly wouldn’t be surprising if the next Passport receives the same upgrades.
In this case, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee model focuses on providing comfort, luxury, and refinement. This two-row mid-size SUV combines rugged styling, a luxurious interior, and off-road capabilities that can get you through some very challenging terrain.
In addition to making the Grand Cherokee model unique, three engine options are available in the 2026 Jeep Cherokee model, including a 4xe plug-in hybrid. In addition, a three-row Grand Cherokee L model is also available.
Other options besides the Jeep Cherokee, such as the charming Ford Bronco or a more expensive Land Rover, are to sacrifice comfort and quietness when driving on the highway. This puts the Jeep Grand Cherokee in the best price, capability, and style position. It has a lot to like, but there are also some drawbacks.
- Strong towing capability
- Excellent list of advanced driver aids, both standard and optional
- Compared to most mid-size SUVs, it can maneuver on the road better.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Specs
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee SUV with five passengers takes 8.0 seconds to reach 0-60 mph. The 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain is faster. One of the benefits is that the brakes allow you to brake confidently and efficiently. The steering is light but accurate, so we like it.
The Grand Cherokee provides driver comfort, and its grip limits are below SUV standards. Compared to most mid-range crossover SUVs, the Grand Cherokee has outstanding capabilities.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Interior
We expect the 2026 Jeep Cherokee to be designed with plenty of space but have a smaller cabin in its class. In the second row, there is enough space for passengers up to six feet tall who can recline. The Grand Cherokee requires a decent entry step as it is relatively fast.
Also, the Grand Cherokee’s large front pillars and side mirrors sometimes lead to poor forward visibility. Purchase a surround-view camera system to eliminate a lot of guesswork when parking.
Most of the 2026 Jeep Cherokee interior design features easy-to-use buttons, but some dials are small, and others are placed in unusual ways. Also, some sunlight angles can obscure the labeling of some touch-sensitive controls.
Technology
We expect the 2026 Jeep Cherokee to come with updates to the latest Jeep Uconnect 5 infotainment system available on the Grand Cherokee. The graphics are sharp, and integrated navigation provides applicable turn-by-turn instructions.
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The upward-pointing angle of the screen can sometimes gather glare from direct sunlight. The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is also expected to come with a rich, distortion-free Sound System feature from our test vehicle’s 19-speaker McIntosh surround sound system.
Smartphone integration and an absurd number of USB ports have become standard. In addition, we liked the Grand Cherokee’s advanced and extensive suite of driver aids. For example, the adaptive cruise control accelerates and brakes smoothly, and the lane-keeping system works well without making overly sharp corrections.
Comfort
For the Grand Cherokee, this is the best category. Even for long trips, the front seats are very comfortable. The air suspension makes driving more relaxed and softens bumps without making the driver feel too soft or light.
Four-zone climate control is available for our Grand Cherokee. Although it does not expel as much air as expected, it maintains the target temperature even when the fan is set at the highest speed. One of the drawbacks of the Grand Cherokee is the highway noise, which is too high for a high-end SUV.
Cargo
Behind the second-row seats, the Grand Cherokee has an average of 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space for a mid-size SUV. (For example, Volkswagen’s Atlas Cross Sport has dimensions of 40.3 cubes.) The rear seats can be split and folded flat to load bulky items. For some, the high load height may be the only constraint.
Plenty of spacious center console bins and cupholders are in the first and second rows, so storage space is ample for small items. There is enough space for the seats at the back of the car. The outboard seats have two anchors accessible behind a plush leather cover.
With a 6,200-pound capacity, the Grand Cherokee has well above-average towing capabilities.
2026 Jeep Cherokee MPG
According to our estimates, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee EPA can return a combined 22 mpg, above average for a mid-size SUV. We found that the EPA figures can be adjusted based on our experience.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Models
We expect the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee to be a mid-size SUV with five trim options: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, and Summit. Trims are usually built like a ladder, adding more features at the top level and fewer below it.
Although the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is dedicated to highway use, it is only available as a plug-in hybrid version of the Grand Cherokee 4xe. To get a summary of the Grand Cherokee’s most important standard features and options, continue reading.
2026 Jeep Cherokee L Reviews
Here comes the spacious and comprehensive model of the 2026 Jeep Cherokee mid-size SUV, an expanded three-row version of the old Jeep Grand Cherokee. However, more minor than the newly revived Jeep Wagoneer, the Grand Cherokee L is the most popular Jeep.
Interestingly, the Grand Cherokee L model can accommodate up to seven people, with more space and features than the regular Grand Cherokee. While the standard four-wheel drive for the Overland trim is a welcome upgrade, changes in 2024 will be few.
With the original ZJ generation first appearing in the early 1990s, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most recognizable brands. The Grand Cherokee L, a nearly identical yet slightly longer three-row variant, is now the fifth generation of the Grand Cherokee. The pair is mechanically similar, with the same V6 and V8 powertrains, trim levels, and off-road capabilities.
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee L is still slightly smaller than the full-size Jeep Wagoneer as it is longer but not more comprehensive than the regular Grand Cherokee. Nonetheless, the Grand Cherokee L is much cheaper and more fuel-efficient than the large Wagoneer.
The Grand Cherokee L is very competitive since almost every automaker offers three-row SUVs in various forms. Since its debut, the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are twins.
- Excellent list of advanced driver aids, both standard and optional
- Classy interior design with plenty of seating
- Most three-row SUVs need to maneuver on the highway.
- Stable towing capacity
2026 Jeep Cherokee Specs
We expect the 2026 Jeep Cherokee L to have a 3.6-liter V6 engine. In addition, there is a muscular 5.7-liter V8 engine in the top trims of the Jeep. Although the V6 is a much-loved engine, it is often seen that too much work is required for a vehicle of this size.
The Jeep Cherokee accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 8.6 seconds. In addition, the light, loose steering feel, and lack of feedback from the brake pedal bothered us. One benefit is the smooth shifting through the automatic transmission’s eight gears, making driving more comfortable and relaxing.
This is a Jeep. In addition, the Grand Cherokee fulfills all the needs of a 17-foot-long, three-row SUV. The four-wheel drive system maximizes slippery environments. Unlike the Range Rover, it will take you further into the woods than most seven-passenger SUVs.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Interior
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee L has plenty of space. Up front, there should be room for drivers of all sizes, and in the second and third rows, there should be room for passengers up to six feet tall. Unfortunately, entry is difficult due to the high height of the vehicle. However, the second row can be tilted and shifted quickly to get a seat in the third row.
Two large red flags are visible at the front. First, shiny black piano plastic covers the controls. To the touch, it feels more like cheap car fittings and quickly shows oil stains.
Second, the buttons are small and hard to hold, and other controls get in the way of operation. In addition, we reported that the Jeep’s protruding hood, large pillars, and the abundance of cameras and radar equipment filling the windshield decreased forward visibility.
Technology
One of the features we love about the 2026 Jeep Cherokee L is Uconnect 5, the latest infotainment system from parent company Stellantis. The graphics are sharp, and integrated navigation offers practical turn-by-turn routes.
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee also had an optional 19-speaker McIntosh surround sound system in our test vehicle, but we wanted more, mainly due to the cost of the system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration have become standard.
We liked the Grand Cherokee L’s advanced driver aids, which is not often the case in other vehicles with the same technology.
For example, the lane-keeping system works well to ensure this large SUV stays in its lane, and the adaptive cruise control allows for smooth braking and acceleration.
Comfort
Safety is a characteristic of the Grand Cherokee L. Its long wheelbase and selectable air suspension make driving comfortable, and bumps in the road can be dealt with before passengers get in. It does so without feeling floaty or losing its composure.
With the front row allowing massage and the second and third rows having satisfactory comfort, the leather seats of our Summit test vehicle proved impressive.
However, this large SUV cannot dampen the sound of bumps in the road. Wind noise was louder than we expected from this class at highway speeds, and the V6 engine sounded loud and unpleasant when pushed.
Payload
The Grand Cherokee L’s maximum cargo capacity outperforms three-row rivals like the Kia Telluride and Volkswagen Atlas. The 17.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row is large enough for daily chores, but the floor load is considerable.
The first and second rows have plenty of spacious center console bins and cupholders, so the storage space is large enough for small items. However, we were confused about why our test vehicle didn’t have child seat anchors on the third-row cushion.
The Grand Cherokee L has tremendous towing power. With a maximum capacity of 6,200 pounds on the V6 and 7,200 pounds on the V8, it easily outpaces its competitors.
2026 Jeep Cherokee L MPG
With the 4WD and V6 engines, the Grand Cherokee L delivers an average combined emissions of 21 mpg, standard for mid-size three-row SUVs. Our test vehicle returned 20.5 mpg on our standard evaluation route, which shows that the EPA estimates are achievable while driving. However, you will be pleasantly surprised if you opt for the V8. According to the EPA, it is 4WD only and delivers a combined 17 mpg.
2026 Jeep Cherokee L Models
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a mid-sized SUV with three rows of seating that can accommodate six or seven people, depending on whether captain’s chairs or a bench are in the second row. There are six trim levels: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve.
All trims have a 3.6-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 257 lb-ft of torque), but the Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve have a 5.7-liter V8 (357 hp, 390 lb-ft), making it one of the few vehicles with eight cylinders in its class. Read more about this SUV’s essential standard features and options.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Favorite Technologies and Features
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Quadra-Trac AWD System
The Quadra-Tac I AWD system is available for the Laredo and Limited, and the Quadra-Trac II, which has a two-speed transfer case, is available for the top two trims. Quadra-Trac II enhances this Jeep’s capability on the highway without compromising ride comfort.
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Uconnect Infotainment System
The Grand Cherokee’s Uconnect infotainment system is feature-rich and easy to use. Essential connectivity functions such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard.
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Elegant top trims
As luxury SUVs, the Overland and Summit trims have premium features such as Quadra-Lift air suspension, panoramic sunroof, and Nappa leather seats. Palermo leather seats, McIntosh audio, front passenger screen, and other features are included in the Summit Reserve package.
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Assistance for Active Driving
Active Driving Assist, an option on the Overland trim and standard on Summit models, makes driving more accessible by helping you stay in the center of the lane at a safe distance from the car in front of you.
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High-quality Sound System
Compared to the standard 6-speaker setup, Alpine’s 9-speaker system, optional on the Limited and standard on the Overland, is a significant upgrade. The Overland and Summit sound system with McIntosh 19 is one of the best we’ve encountered for an SUV without a luxury badge.
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Thickness Package
The available Upgrade Package for the base Laredo trim adds style with glossy black wheels and exterior accents. This package has perks like a wireless charging pad, power liftgate, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Transmission Performance
The Grand Cherokee is powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 engine capable of producing 293 hp. Rear-wheel drive is generally available. Various all-wheel drive systems are available, including an electronically locking limited-slip differential.
With more powerful off-road equipment and greater capacity, Trailhawk models have adjustable air suspension, which increases ground clearance by 11.3 inches, and a removable anti-roll bar, which allows more excellent wheel articulation on rugged terrain.
Interestingly, in a separate review, the Grand Cherokee 4xe was the fastest. It can reach 60 mph in 5.3 seconds and the quarter mile in 13.9 seconds at 100 mph. The V-6-powered Summit test vehicle can reach 7.4 seconds to 60 miles per hour on our test track. The Grand Cherokee has a great shape and smooth handling.
2026 Jeep Cherokee MPG
With rear-wheel drive, the V-6-powered Grand Cherokee gets about 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, which is standard for a mid-size SUV. Those estimates will be reduced by one mpg by adding all-wheel drive. (The 4xe plug-in hybrid saves even more fuel, achieving 23 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.)
2026 Jeep Cherokee Payload
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. That’s more than the maximum capacity of the Jeep Wrangler and slightly more than that of its competitors like the Ford Edge.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Jeep Grand Cherokee a Top Safety Pick+ award, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it a perfect 5-star overall safety rating.
Its standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more, received top honors.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Prices
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee price varies from $39,830 to $68,835, depending on options and trim.
Considering the Jeep brand tax, the Grand Cherokee is priced thousands of dollars more than its competitors, such as the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, and luxury SUVs with higher trims are similarly priced.
However, the Limited model has the best combination of features, beating the Laredo with more equipment to meet the needs of luxury consumers.
The Limited specification includes leather upholstery, a power-operated rear liftgate, heated front and rear seats, power-adjustable front seats, interior ambient lighting, automatic spotlights, and a remote starter.
We chose the Lux Tech Group II package because it has the following features: Second-row sun visors, a 360-degree camera system, front and rear parking sensors, power-adjustable steering column, perforated leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Verdict
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has several advantages—Best-in-class towing, genuine off-road capability, comfort, and relatively spacious. In addition, we like the modern driving aids that make driving easier and safer. The Grand Cherokee’s disadvantages are their advantages. If you look at all the boxes, it’s pretty expensive and has less standard equipment than its competitors.
However, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L has spacious seating in all three rows and better off-road and towing capabilities than its competitors. However, the Grand Cherokee L needs help with its performance on the highway and is a less comfortable three-row SUV than some of its competitors.
We’ll be keeping you updated with more new developments regarding the 2026 Jeep Cherokee, so be sure to bookmark our website for more Cherokee Jeep news and coverage of exciting Jeep information all the time.
FAQs: People also ask Jeep Cherokee 2026
Q: Why is Jeep discontinuing the Cherokee?
A: The Cherokee has been a favorite among individuals due to its combination of durability and comfort, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. As a result, Jeep discontinued the production of the Cherokee. The rationale? They intend to concentrate on the development of SUVs that are both more advanced and superior.
Q: Is Jeep retiring the Cherokee name?
A: “Cherokee” is the most frequently and almost habitually used after the word “Jeep” for many auto enthusiasts. The Cherokee’s production has concluded after nearly fifty years, but the Grand Cherokee has yet to conclude.
Q: Is Jeep keeping the Cherokee?
A: The final KL model was produced at the Belvidere, Illinois, facility on March 1, marking the end of 49 years of Cherokee production. However, the hiatus will not be permanently fixed. Production is destined for Toluca, Mexico, and plans for a sixth generation are currently underway.
Q: What is the new Jeep Cherokee called?
A: The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a midsize SUV, essentially an extended three-row variant of the long-running Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Q: What is the top-of-the-line Jeep Cherokee?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve is the 2024 model year’s highest specification level. It features a 19-speaker premium audio system, Palermo leather seating surfaces, and 21-inch polished, eye-catching, and exclusive rims.
