The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been doing its thing since the early ’90s—mixing daily comfort with real off-road chops—and it’s still one of the most recognizable SUVs on the road. With the 2026 model year on the horizon, Jeep might be lining up some welcome changes.
Key Takeaways
- The Cherokee is expected to start with the same 3.6-liter V-6.
- Potential updates include a refreshed exterior and updated interior tech
- Fuel economy should stay around 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
What Is New for the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Jeep hasn’t confirmed everything yet, but rumors point to a mild refresh for the Grand Cherokee. Think a sharper-looking exterior, upgraded infotainment, and possibly that Hurricane I-6 engine that's been rumored. If it happens, it should mean more power and better fuel efficiency than the aging V-6 that’s been under the hood for years.
The Grand Cherokee 4xe is still the closest thing to an electric Grand Cherokee, offering a blend of gas and electric power. If you want something fully electric, Jeep’s Wagoneer S might be the better choice, though it’s more about road performance than trail duty.
What Will the Grand Cherokee's Engines and Fuel Economy Be?
The likely base engine for the 2026 Grand Cherokee is a 3.6-liter V-6 delivering 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque and paired with an eight-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive optional or standard, depending on trim.
The plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe will still offer around 25 miles of all-electric range before the gas engine kicks in. Expect the V-6 to return roughly 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, with a driving range north of 500 miles on a full tank. The hybrid version is the one to pick if you want to cut down on gas stops.
What Does the 2026 Grand Cherokee Feature?
Inside, the Grand Cherokee’s design still looks sharp. The 2026 version might swap its current 10.1-inch optional touchscreen for the Wagoneer S’s larger 12.3-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot will remain standard. You’ll also get a digital driver display, an available passenger-side screen, and USB ports for both rows.
Cargo space is decent at 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 with them folded, though some rivals offer more. If you need more seats, the Grand Cherokee L stretches the wheelbase to make room for a third row, seating up to seven. Aside from size, it’s essentially the same SUV.
Safety and Features of the 2026 Grand Cherokee
Every Grand Cherokee will be loaded with driver-assist tech like front and rear automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims will have options like a head-up display and night vision.
Get Into a 2026 Jeep Cherokee Today!
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee looks set to stick with what works—rugged style, capable off-road manners, and everyday comfort—while hopefully getting the modern engine and tech upgrades it deserves. If Jeep nails those updates, it could keep its spot as one of the most versatile midsize SUVs out there. Keep in contact with our sales staff so you're the first to know when it arrives!