I tested the 2026 Jeep Cherokee for a week for USA TODAY Cars to see how the nameplate changed after a major redesign. The Cherokee has completely evolved, from its styling to its platform.
The compact SUV segment is typically dominated by Japanese models like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Jeep’s new Cherokee is a strong alternative to other popular segment rivals for fans of the brand.
Here’s what I learned from a week of daily driving in the 2026 Jeep Cherokee small hybrid SUV.
What Stands Out About the 2026 Jeep Cherokee?
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee’s exterior redesign is the SUV’s most noticeable attribute from afar. Once you step inside the cabin, its premium materials and tech are also notable.
Jeep revitalized one of its best-selling nameplates with its sixth-generation redesign, making it much more modern, from its appearance to its powertrain. Capability is no longer the Cherokee’s sole appeal. Its pricing, power, fuel economy and standard tech also shine following its redesign.
Performance, Handling and Efficiency
Jeep’s redesigned small SUV feels powerful and capable on roads. Its fuel economy is admirable and appealing for drivers looking to save money on gas.
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and electric motors to produce 210 horsepower. It achieves 39 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway, which is stellar gas mileage for its segment.
Interior, Tech and Comfort
The new Cherokee has a refined, tech-centric interior. It comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
The Jeep Cherokee’s interior is comfy and refined for a mainstream model. Its cabin feels classy for its segment. The hybrid proves that Stellantis is paying close attention to quality, not just capability and power.
Will the 2026 Jeep Cherokee Fit Your Lifestyle?
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee seats five passengers. It’s 188.1 inches long, 74.7 inches wide and 67.5 inches tall.
The small hybrid SUV has 33.6 cubic feet of rear cargo space behind its second row, which is generous for its segment. It has 38.5 inches of second-row legroom. If you have a small family, the Cherokee has more than enough room to accommodate your passengers and cargo.
Price, Value and Competitors
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee starts at $35,000 before taxes and additional fees. It comes in six trims.
2026 Jeep Cherokee trims
- Cherokee: $35,000
- Laredo: $38,000
- Limited: $40,000
- Limited Altitude: $40,595
- 85th Anniversary Edition: $40,905
- Overland: $43,000
Jeep’s small SUV delivers solid value for the money because of its hybrid powertrain and standard all-wheel drive. Upper trims are also reasonably priced since every model aside from the base adds features and comes in at under $45K before taxes and fees.
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee competes against other hybrids like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V Hybrid. The RAV4 Hybrid with all-wheel drive is the most powerful of the trio (236 horsepower) and the most efficient (44 miles per gallon combined). It’s also the most affordable of the three hybrid SUVs, starting at $31,900.
Honda’s CR-V Hybrid is the best choice for ride comfort, cabin quality and passenger space. The 2026 Jeep Cherokee beats the Toyota RAV4 and CR-V Hybrid when it comes to off-road capability and standard tech.
Who Should Buy the 2026 Jeep Cherokee?
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is a huge improvement over past generations of the small SUV nameplate. Jeep’s decision to give it a new standard hybrid powertrain makes it more appealing to budget-conscious drivers who value exceptional fuel economy.
If you want a small family SUV that boasts great gas mileage numbers, is powerful and can take the road less traveled on occasion, the 2026 Jeep Cherokee occupies a unique niche in its segment. It’s a win for fans of the Jeep brand that want a more versatile small SUV than previous Cherokee model years.
The new Cherokee is far from the undisputed best model in its segment, but it’s easily one of the best new vehicle redesigns for 2026. Drivers who want a capable small hybrid SUV should consider buying it.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY. Reporting by Charles Singh, USA TODAY / USA TODAY. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.
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