2026 Jeep Cherokee Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
After a hiatus, the Jeep Cherokee returns to fill the space between the smaller Compass and larger Grand Cherokee. The Cherokee nameplate has heritage for Jeep’s brand, used as long ago as the mid-1970s but popularized with the iconic XJ generation that was produced from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s.
In its new generation, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee competes in the compact SUV segment, flexing its rugged attitude against its roadgoing crossover rivals.
What’s New
Basics
- Hybrid engine available
- Gas-only and all-electric powertrains possible
- Pavement- and off-road-oriented versions
Exterior
- All-new exterior design
Interior
- Large digital displays inside
- Potentially increased passenger and cargo space
This page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
New Jeep Cherokee: Gas, Hybrid, or EV?
The new Jeep Cherokee is expected to be built on a versatile vehicle architecture that can accommodate different types of powertrains.
Jeep has confirmed a hybrid engine for the 2026 Cherokee, likely based around a four-cylinder engine. It’s expected to be a conventional hybrid, not a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), although such a powertrain could eventually arrive to supplement Jeep’s 4xe PHEV range.
The hybrid engine may be an optional upgrade over a gas-only turbocharged I-4 engine serving as the basic offering carried over from the previous generation.
Additionally, an all-electric Cherokee is possible, but Jeep may be cautious of overlapping with its other EVs, the upscale Wagoneer S and forthcoming Jeep Recon off-road electric SUV.
Safety Features
The 2026 Cherokee is expected to be equipped with a variety of common driver-assist and active safety features as standard or optional on higher trims, including:
- Front and rear automatic emergency braking
- Front, side, and rear cross-traffic alert
- Road sign recognition
- Automatic high-beams
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Although specific measurements are not yet known, we expect the new 2026 Cherokee to be slightly bigger than the previous version. That would contribute to a much-needed increased interior space for passengers and cargo.
The outgoing Cherokee had good legroom but not much cargo space compared to its competitors, so hopefully that will increase in the new generation. Jeep considers the 2026 Cherokee a midsize SUV, but we suspect it will compete more with generously sized compacts like the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage.
Technology
Infotainment
Like other new Jeep models, the 2026 Cherokee will have plenty of digital real estate. It could have a 12.3-inch driver’s display, along with an infotainment touchscreen measuring between 8.4 and 12.3 inches.
Regardless, expect wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to be included.
To stay charged, USB ports in both rows of seats and a front-row wireless charging pad will likely be available.
Sound System
Above the base audio system, higher-end Cherokee trims will probably offer an upgrade system with speakers from Alpine or McIntosh.
Available Upgrades
Tech features including a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and 360-degree camera could be on the Cherokee’s options list. It could even offer a touchscreen ahead of the front passenger, as the Wagoneer S, Grand Cherokee, and Grand Wagoneer do.
Value
Standard Features
Anticipate the new 2026 Cherokee to come equipped with standard AWD—it’s a Jeep, after all.
The photos Jeep has shared indicate the Cherokee will have LED exterior lighting, roof rails, and flush door handles.
Inside, fabric or leatherette upholstery, a digital driver’s display, 8.4-inch touchscreen, and two USB ports could be included on the entry-level version.
New Cherokee Trailhawk?
To optimize Jeep’s off-road reputation, the new 2026 Cherokee range will likely have a Trailhawk trim level.
This version would be equipped with hardware such as larger all-terrain tires, lifted suspension, and locking differentials.
Tech such as drive modes for different types of terrain and a front-facing camera to spot trail obstacles would further increase off-road potential.
The 2026 Cherokee Trailhawk should wear distinctive styling cues such as high-clearance bumpers and prominent integrated tow hooks to stand out from its more pavement-oriented counterparts.
When and How Much?
The new Cherokee will likely be fully revealed late in 2025 as a 2026 model. Given modern automotive tariff considerations, Jeep may strive to produce the Cherokee in the U.S.; the previous generation was assembled in Illinois.
Expect pricing for the 2026 Jeep Cherokee to begin in the mid-$30,000 range.
