2026 Jeep Cherokee: Five Things to Know
The Jeep Cherokee is back! Did you miss it? Of course, a lot has changed more than two full years after production ended in March 2023.
“We took the time to step back and analyze the North American midsize SUV market to understand one thing: what do customers want from a next-generation Jeep Cherokee?” Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf said. “The answer is a great-looking SUV with incredible range, more standard technology, safety equipment, capability to match their lifestyles, driven by a powerful and efficient powertrain.”
- Also: Jeep Teases Recon Arrival, Updates Grand Wagoneer
- Also: 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Teaser Hints at Subtle Refresh
Until the new Cherokee finally lands in Canadian dealerships, here are five things you need to know:
1. Starting Under $40,000
The entry-level 2026 Jeep Cherokee carries a base MSRP of $39,995 (plus $2,395 freight, PDI and additional fees), followed by the Laredo trim which starts at $44,995. These two models will launch in early 2026.
Before that, meaning in late 2025, the more upscale Limited and Overland models will hit the market first, priced from $49,995 and $53,995, respectively. Good news: no tariffs will apply since production is set to take place at Stellantis’ Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico.
2. First Cherokee With Hybrid Propulsion
Marking a radical departure from its predecessor, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee debuts a new 1.6-litre turbo-four hybrid system. Expect combined fuel consumption as low as 6.4 L/100 km, the company claims, resulting in up to 800 km of range on a single tank of fuel.
Featuring an internal combustion engine, two electric motors and a battery, the hybrid system delivers 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. Production will take place at Stellantis’ Dundee propulsion plant in Michigan.
3. Trusted Jeep 4x4 Capability
In signature Jeep fashion, the 2026 Cherokee provides legendary off-road capability. It starts with a standard Jeep Active Drive I 4x4 system with rear-axle disconnect, then adds Selec-Terrain traction management with four driving modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, Sand/Mud.
The Cherokee also boasts best-in-class approach and departure angles of 19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively, plus a breakover angle of 18.8 degrees and 20 cm (8 in) of ground clearance.
4. More Space and Standard Equipment
Despite Jeep calling it a midsize SUV, the 2026 Cherokee will still slot below the Grand Cherokee and go head-to-head with compact SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. That being said, it’s larger and roomier (with 30 percent more cargo capacity) than the old Cherokee, while content is more generous.
Standard on every trim are heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist identification, a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross path, drowsy driver detection, active driving assist (Level 2 driver assistance with adaptive cruise control), and more.
Optional equipment includes a dual-pane sunroof, foot-activated power liftgate, 360-degree camera, digital rearview mirror, heated rear seats, ventilated front seat, front tire-to-curb view, premium audio and Alexa in-vehicle assistant, among other things.
5. Advanced Connectivity
Finally, as far as technology and connectivity go, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee is equipped to please drivers with a 10.25-inch full-colour digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Jeep’s excellent Uconnect 5 infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus OTA updates and something called AppMarket that allows users to download apps such as Geocaching and The Dyrt or games like Sudoku.
What’s more, every 2026 Cherokee comes with Stellantis’ new Connect ONE connected services package. This standard package includes 10 years of service for over-the-air (OTA) updates, Jeep brand smartphone app for vehicle functions, automatic SOS calls and more at no additional cost.
