2026 Jeep Cherokee Debuts In New Avatar- To Get Hybrid Power,Here's What We Know

Jeep has officially revealed the 2026 Jeep Cherokee, marking the return of the iconic SUV after its brief discontinuation in 2023. Back with hybrid power, a bolder boxy design, and a revamped identity, the next-generation Cherokee is set to fill the gap between the Jeep Compass and the Grand Cherokee when it arrives later this year.

Following a 10-year production run, the fifth-generation Cherokee was retired in 2023, leaving many enthusiasts wondering about its successor. The wait is finally over as Jeep releases teaser images and hints at significant mechanical upgrades for the sixth-generation Cherokee.

The next generation of an original classic. Coming late 2025. pic.twitter.com/tfcVlk0MnK

— Jeep (@Jeep) May 29, 2025

Hybrid First, More Powertrains to Follow

The new Cherokee will be underpinned by Stellantis' STLA Large platform, allowing Jeep to offer hybrid, petrol, and fully electric powertrains. While technical details are under wraps, reports suggest the hybrid version will launch first, followed by ICE and EV variants.

The electric Cherokee could feature a 100 kWh battery pack and dual motors similar to the Wagoneer S, though a tamer output is expected. Speculation also points to a detuned 3.0L twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six engine for the petrol variant, capable of delivering up to 548 hp and 707 Nm of torque.

Design: Rugged and Refined

Visually, the 2026 Cherokee is a modern reinterpretation of Jeep’s classic styling:

    Seven-slot grille reminiscent of the Wagoneer S and Compass

    Rectangular headlights and integrated LED indicators

    Bold bumper design with black cladding and silver accents

    New alloy wheels, blacked-out pillars, and contrasting roof

    ‘Cherokee’ badging on the front doors in a redesigned font

Jeep has yet to release images of the rear profile and cabin, but expectations are high for a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and new-age features like a flat-bottomed steering wheel and smart climate control interface.

Jeep CEO Speaks

    “The all-new Jeep Cherokee headlines our efforts to deliver more product, innovation, choice and standard content to customers than ever before,”
    — Bob Broderdorf, CEO of Jeep

He further added that the Cherokee will be competitively priced, appealing to the midsize SUV segment, and will serve as a strategic bridge between the Compass and Grand Cherokee.

Launch Timeline

The full reveal of the 2026 Cherokee is expected in late 2025, with global sales slated to begin in early 2026. While Jeep has made no official announcement regarding an India launch, it may consider expanding availability depending on market demand and regulatory approvals.

A New Chapter for an Old Favorite

With its return, the Jeep Cherokee repositions itself in a rapidly evolving SUV market. Offering electrified mobility, modern aesthetics, and rugged DNA, it promises to carry forward the legacy of a nameplate that once defined adventure on American roads.

Whether it's hybrid, gas, or electric, the Cherokee is back—sharper, tougher, and greener than ever.