If you’re looking for a comfortable daily driver that’s also a capable off-road model, you may have been wondering why you haven’t seen a new Jeep Cherokee for sale in recent years. After the 2023 model, the Cherokee went on hiatus for two years, but now it’s back for 2026 and better than ever.
During that time off, Jeep has completely reinvented the Jeep Cherokee, giving it a new body with more cargo space. It also features an all-new hybrid powertrain that is more powerful and significantly more efficient than the outgoing standard engine, along with a modern infotainment system loaded with convenient features.
Here at LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Lansing, we want to help keep you up to date on the latest automotive news so that you can be a well-informed shopper. So today, let’s take a look at what’s new for the 2026 Cherokee. There are a lot of changes to cover, so strap in and be ready to get excited.
Under the Hood
One of the most significant changes for the Cherokee is that it’s now a hybrid. The new powertrain isn’t just more efficient—it’s a step up from the standard powertrain on the 2023 Cherokee in just about every way. Let’s take a look at some key details:
| 2023 Jeep Cherokee | 2026 Jeep Cherokee |
| Standard Engine | 2.4L Tigershark I-4 | 1.6L Turbocharged I-4 HEV |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 171 lb-ft | 230 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined) | 21/29/24 MPG | 39/35/37 MPG |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
Stronger Performance and Efficiency Gains
There’s a lot to love about the new powertrain. Of course, as a hybrid, better fuel economy is expected. But it’s still stunning to see just how much more efficient the new model is—you get over 10 extra miles per gallon overall!
Looking at city driving, the difference is even more dramatic: nearly 20 MPG. Since off-roading is generally closer to city driving than highway driving, with lower speeds and more stops and starts, this model is more efficient on the trails. This helps you spend less time refueling and more time enjoying your adventures. Furthermore, the 2026 model delivers over 500 miles of range on a single tank of gas so that you can drive uninterrupted.
More Capability for Every Adventure
On top of that, the 2026 Cherokee is more powerful. Its higher horsepower lets you enjoy high-speed thrill rides while its beefy torque comes in handy for accelerating and navigating uneven ground. You also have more towing capacity to play with, so you can bring a trailer along for the ride and make your next adventure in the great outdoors even better than the last.
Room for More Cargo
For 2026, the Cherokee gains a longer wheelbase and about five inches of overall length. This gives you more cargo volume to use, whether you’re out shopping, running errands, or packing gear for your big camping trip. It makes this SUV more versatile than ever before.
With all the seating up and in use, the 2023 model offers 25.8 cu.ft. of cargo space in the rear. The 2026 model brings that up to 33.6 cu.ft. Fold down the rear seats, and the 2023 Cherokee gives you 54.7 cu.ft. of space to work with, while the 2026 model gives you a whopping 68.3 cu.ft.
Tech at Your Fingertips
Take a look at the dashboard, and you’ll instantly see a big difference compared to the outgoing model. The 8.4-inch touchscreen from 2023 has been replaced by a large 12.3-inch screen that’s neatly embedded in the dash. Behind the wheel, a fully digital 10.3-inch gauge display puts important information right in your line of sight so you can keep your eyes on the road or the trail ahead.
Wireless Connectivity for a Clutter-Free Cabin
You can easily connect your smartphone to this interface with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad is also available, if you want to go completely cordless to keep clutter to a minimum and maximize convenience.
Advanced Safety & Security Features
The new Cherokee is designed to provide you with complete peace of mind, with 140 standard safety features, plus available safety and security features. Some of the items that are standard across all trims may surprise you, since many of them are usually relegated to higher trims on other competing models.
Standard and available features include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian & Cyclist Detection
- Intersection Collision Assist
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Detection
- Drowsy Driver Detection
- Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers
- Rear Park Assist
- Rear Automatic Emergency Braking
Driver Assistance That Goes Further
The cherry on top of the sundae of safety features is the Active Driving Assist System. This driver-assist feature uses a combination of sensors, cameras, and processing equipment to make your Cherokee semi-autonomous.
Set the cruise control, and the system will keep you at your set speed unless traffic in front of you gets too close—then it will slow down or stop as needed to maintain a safe following distance, speeding back up to your set speed when it’s safe to do so.
On top of that, the steering system will keep you centered in your lane. This makes driving on the highway as easy and safe as possible, helping you avoid road fatigue and stress.
Rugged Design With a Modern Edge
On the exterior, the 2026 Cherokee draws inspiration from its roots, with a modern twist. Compared to the 2023 model, this one is distinctly boxier, giving the SUV a classic Jeep look that’s unmistakably rugged and ready for action. The grille is reminiscent of the one on the current Grand Cherokee, bringing the smaller model in step with the lineup as a whole.
The interior has a new style as well. In addition to the more modern look of the upgraded infotainment system, there’s a new steering wheel with a unique angular shape, sitting between a circle and an octagon, with a distinctly flat top and bottom for a sporty, rugged look.
The airy cabin is well-appointed overall, designed to be a great place to spend time in, whether you’re cruising around town or out on a longer road trip.
More Features, Greater Value
With all of these exciting upgrades, you might expect the 2026 Jeep Cherokee to come in at a higher price than the 2023 model—but it actually offers even more value. While the 2023 Cherokee launched at around $37,695, the 2026 model has an MSRP of $35,000, offering modern enhancements at a more accessible price.[a]
This affordable starting price makes the model accessible to a wide range of drivers so that everyone can enjoy the power, comfort, tech, and efficiency of this go-anywhere compact SUV.
Find the 2026 Cherokee Here at LaFontaine CDJR Lansing
We love all of the upgrades that Jeep has given the 2026 Cherokee. The new design takes all of the things that were already great about this compact SUV and turns them up to 11, while adding several new touches that elevate the model to new heights.
If you’re interested in seeing the new Cherokee for yourself, come and see us here at LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Lansing. Our friendly team will be happy to show you the lineup, answer any questions you may have, and get you set up with a test drive or two. We can’t wait to welcome you.
[a] MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, destination charge, and accessories. MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for complete details.
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