New Jeep Cherokee Showcases Its 5-Pack Abs and Wagoneer S-Inspired Dashboard | Carscoops

      The prototype for the upcoming compact ICE SUV utilizes the STLA Large platform, which it shares with the Wagoneer S and the Recon EVs.

      Recent spy photos have disclosed additional details about the all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee.

      The upper and lower grille designs are similar yet distinct from those of the current Grand Cherokee.

      A sloped digital touchscreen is positioned above a set of touch-sensitive climate control buttons.

      Jeep's lineup has expanded over the last few years with the introduction of the luxury Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, along with the all-electric Wagoneer S, which will soon be joined by the electric Recon. However, the 2026 Cherokee may prove to be even more significant, with new spy images showcasing its exterior and interior for the first time.

      In comparison to earlier prototypes, this version has shed much of its front-end camouflage, revealing a grille that resembles a combination of various Jeep designs. The five visible vertical grille sections (with two still concealed) are taller than those found on the Grand Cherokee and appear to protrude more from the body. Unlike the Wagoneers, however, these sections lack a trim piece above them displaying the model name.

      Related: What We Know About Jeep’s 2026 Cherokee

      Even if it did feature a trim piece with a name, what would it be called? We refer to this SUV as the Cherokee because it serves as a replacement for the model that was discontinued in 2023 and will fit below the Grand Cherokee in Jeep's range. However, some reports suggest Jeep may discontinue the longstanding name as a gesture of respect to the Cherokee Nation.

      Regardless of its name, the dashboard design of this new Cherokee bears more resemblance to the Wagoneer S EV than the current Grand Cherokee. These initial interior images of the competitor to the Ford Bronco Sport reveal a large digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen angled above a series of touch-sensitive climate control buttons.

      It’s reassuring to see that drivers won't have to navigate through the infotainment system to adjust temperature settings, and while the switches look aesthetically pleasing, physical push-buttons would be a better option. Positioned lower on the console is what appears to be a rotary control for the transmission along with a toggle for switching driver modes. The passenger side of this prototype is covered with cloth camouflage, but it's possible that Jeep may include a third screen above the glovebox, similar to what is seen in the Wagoneer S.

      Nestled between the shock towers of the Stellantis STLA Large platform, the Cherokee will debut its first hybrid powertrain options, with an all-electric version to follow later. According to leaked documents, production is set to begin this fall for the 2026 model year, and we can expect to learn more – including the name – in the months leading up to the launch.

      Images: Baldauf