The 2026 Jeep Cherokee has been around since 1974, but this latest iteration is a significant departure from its predecessors. Riding on the Stellantis STLA Large platform, the new Cherokee boasts a longer wheelbase, increased length, and a more efficient design. The 2026 model has a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four, producing a combined 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid powertrain is paired with an electronically managed continuously variable transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. While the engine note can be a bit grating at times, the rest of the package is well-executed, with a quiet cabin, smooth ride, and responsive steering. The interior has taken a huge leap forward, with a plethora of standard features and a more refined design. The Cherokee's approach, break-over, and departure angles are impressive for an on-road-focused crossover, making it suitable for both city driving and light off-roading. However, the break-over angle is ...
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee has been around since 1974, but this latest iteration is a significant departure from its predecessors. Riding on the Stellantis STLA Large platform, the new Cherokee boasts a longer wheelbase, increased length, and a more efficient design. The 2026 model has a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four, producing a combined 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid powertrain is paired with an electronically managed continuously variable transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. While the engine note can be a bit grating at times, the rest of the package is well-executed, with a quiet cabin, smooth ride, and responsive steering.
The interior has taken a huge leap forward, with a plethora of standard features and a more refined design. The Cherokee’s approach, break-over, and departure angles are impressive for an on-road-focused crossover, making it suitable for both city driving and light off-roading. However, the break-over angle is slightly worse than its predecessor, likely due to the longer wheelbase. The 2026 Cherokee lineup is limited to base, Laredo, Limited, and Overland trims, with the top-spec model starting at $44,995.
Pricing for the 2026 Jeep Cherokee starts at $36,995 for the base model, making it a solid competitor in its class. The hybrid powertrain produces more gusto than the previous model’s 2.4-liter four, but it’s still behind the old Trailhawk trim’s 2.0-liter turbo, which mustered 270 horses and 295 pound-feet. Overall, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee is a smooth, inoffensive hybrid with a much better interior and solid fuel economy. It’s a great option for those looking for a compact SUV with a more refined design and impressive off-road capability.
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