Jeep Cherokee Makes a Comeback as a High-End Hybrid with a Corresponding Price | Carscoops

      The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is set to debut later this year, featuring a completely new powertrain that yields 37 mpg combined.

      Jeep has unveiled the redesigned Cherokee, which boasts a hybrid powertrain generating 210 hp. This new model is considerably larger than its predecessor and achieves an impressive 37 mpg in combined driving.

      Returning with more space and sophistication, the Jeep Cherokee integrates increased efficiency through its hybrid engine, increasing its competitiveness in the hybrid crossover market.

      Having already glimpsed the exterior, it showcases a "super vertical" front with a narrow grille and rectangular headlights reminiscent of the Cherokee XJ. The design includes angular body panels and robust cladding.

      Design enhancements also encompass a spacious greenhouse and flush door handles, with a choice of 17- to 20-inch wheels fitted with either Nexen Roadian GTX or Pirelli Scorpion MS all-season tires.

      At the rear, the liftgate features stylized elements hinting at the XJ, complemented by a contrasting black license plate area and taillights inspired by jerry cans.

      In terms of dimensions, the Cherokee measures 188.1 inches (4,778 mm) in length, 83.6 inches (2,123 mm) in width, and 67.5 inches (1,715 mm) in height, with a wheelbase of 113 inches (2,870 mm). This new model is 4.7 inches (119 mm) longer, 1 inch (25 mm) wider, and 2 inches (50 mm) taller than its predecessor, resulting in a more spacious interior.

      A Stylish and Comfortable Interior

      The exterior's bold design contrasts with the interior's luxury, echoing the Wagoneer S. Inside, drivers are met with a squared steering wheel and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, alongside a 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system featuring wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

      Every Cherokee includes a ten-year subscription to Connect One, offering over-the-air updates, automatic emergency calls, and integration with the Jeep smartphone app.

      The interior is designed to feel open and modern, aided by a redesigned center console that includes a rotary gear selector and a small Selec-Terrain switch with settings for Auto, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud.

      The previous model’s abundance of buttons and knobs has been streamlined, with a strong reliance on the infotainment system. However, there are still dedicated controls for climate settings and vehicle features. Traditional door handles have been replaced by digital latches.

      In line with eco-friendly initiatives, the Cherokee opts for Capri vinyl instead of leather, maintaining an appealing feel while featuring a unique perforation pattern on the Overland trim.

      To support sustainable practices, the crossover includes various recycled materials in the headliner, carpeting, and soft trim components.

      Despite its larger size, second-row legroom decreases from 40.3 inches (1,023 mm) to 38.5 inches (977 mm), a noticeable reduction. However, a writer of 6'2" found the back seat quite accommodating, with ample headroom. Jeep representatives also noted that rear passengers enjoy 2.5 inches (64 mm) more shoulder room and 5.2 inches (132 mm) more hip room.

      While second-row legroom may be reduced, cargo capacity has increased by 30%. With requests for more storage from customers, the Cherokee now offers 33.6 cubic feet (952 liters) behind the second-row and 68.3 cubic feet (1,934 liters) with the front seats down, a rise from the previous model’s 54.7 cubic feet (1,549 liters).

      Jeep has been reserved regarding specific features, but it has mentioned options including heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a digital rearview mirror, a dual-pane sunroof, an Alpine audio system, and a foot-activated power liftgate.

      A Hybrid Engine

      The powertrain consists of a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 177 hp (132 kW / 179 PS) and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) of torque, coupled with a hybrid system that includes two electric motors, an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, and a 1.08 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

      This configuration allows the Cherokee to achieve a combined output of 210 hp (157 kW / 213 PS) and 230 lb-ft (312 Nm) of torque, surpassing the previous 2.4-liter engine. Stellantis’ head of global propulsion systems, Micky Bly, stated that the “torque comes on early and stays strong,” emphasizing extensive development and testing.

      The hybrid system works in conjunction with a standard four-wheel drive setup that features a rear-axle disconnect for improved efficiency, allowing for 42 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 37 mpg combined.

      Jeep is