2026 Jeep Cherokee First Drive Review: Hybrid Power and Off-Road Potential

Redesigned Exterior and Styling

• 🚀 The all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee features a significantly different exterior design compared to its predecessor, aiming for a more rugged and upright aesthetic.
• 💡 Daytime running lights are inspired by the squared-off headlights of the XJ model, contributing to a distinctive front-end appearance.
• 📌 The rear end has a dramatic, cliff-like fall, enhancing its boxy and rugged shape, complemented by jerry can-style tail lights.

Hybrid Powertrain and Efficiency

• ⚡ Under the hood, the Cherokee is powered by a 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system, producing 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque.
• 📊 This hybrid setup delivers impressive fuel economy, with Jeep claiming a combined 37 MPG (39 city, 35 highway) and an estimated range of 500 miles on a single tank.
• ⚙️ The transmission is an EVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that utilizes a planetary gear set for increased durability, designed to work with the hybrid system.

All-Wheel Drive and Capability

• 🏔️ All-wheel drive is standard across all trims of the new Cherokee, featuring a physical connection to the rear wheels for enhanced capability compared to systems relying solely on rear electric motors.
• 🔋 At low speeds, the vehicle can operate on pure electric power, though the 1 kWh battery limits this to maneuvering in parking lots or neighborhoods, with the engine engaging at highway speeds.
• 🚦 Multiple drive modes are available, including Sand, Mud, Snow, Auto, and Sport, though the current models do not feature a low-range gear, suggesting a focus on all-wheel drive capability rather than extreme off-roading.

Interior Design and Technology

• 📱 The interior boasts a rugged design with hard edges and squared-off shapes, featuring nice textures and stitching, though materials are noted as plasticky in the rear.
• 🖥️ A 12.3-inch touchscreen runs the Uconnect system, complemented by a 10.25-inch configurable driver display, with some dedicated controls for climate and seat heating.
• ⚠️ The steering wheel is described as blocky and squared off, which may feel unusual to grip initially, and some controls like the volume knob are partially obscured by the wheel.

Ride, Handling, and Practicality

• 🛣️ The Cherokee offers a comfortable ride and fine handling for a street-focused SUV, with minimal excessive body roll, though the steering is noted as numb.
• 🔊 The powertrain is generally quiet, and while not engaging, it provides adequate power and a decent wave of torque from a standstill.
• 🧳 Cargo space has been improved by approximately 30% over the previous model, offering 33.6 cubic feet with seats up and 68.3 cubic feet with seats folded, though a spare tire is not included, only a tire inflator.
• 💰 Pricing starts at $36,995, with top trims potentially reaching around $50,000.