After a three-year hiatus, Jeep is reviving the Cherokee for 2026 as a hybrid-only, AWD-standard compact SUV. The rebooted, boxier Cherokee debuts with four trims—Hybrid ($36,995), Laredo ($39,995), Limited ($42,495), and Overland ($45,995)—putting its base price above much of the segment even before options. Under the hood is a 1.6-liter turbo four paired with electric assistance for 210 hp and 230 lb-ft, with Jeep targeting up to 37 mpg combined and 3,500-lb towing.
What’s New
- Hybrid only, AWD standard. Every Cherokee uses a conventional (non-plug-in) hybrid setup and an e-CVT; AWD is standard with drive modes like Auto, Sport, Snow, and Mud/Sand, plus a rear-axle disconnect for efficiency. A harder-core Trailhawk off-road trim is expected later.
- Bigger, boxier, roomier. The new model grows in wheelbase and overall length, gaining cargo space (Jeep and reviewers cite roughly a 30% bump with seats folded) and a more upright, classic-Jeep stance. Inside, it adds a 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster.
Powertrain & Capability
A 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder teams with electric motors for 210 hp/230 lb-ft. Jeep is aiming for ~37 mpg combined and 500+ miles of range on a tank—numbers designed to close the efficiency gap to Toyota and Honda. Capability remains in the mix: 8.0 inches of ground clearance, approach/breakover/departure angles of 19.6/18.8/29.4 degrees, and 3,500-lb max towing (properly equipped).
Pricing & Trims (2026 Cherokee)
- Hybrid: $36,995
- Laredo Hybrid: $39,995
- Limited Hybrid: $42,495
- Overland Hybrid: $45,995
(Prices as reported; destination and options extra.)
How It Stacks Up on Price
Jeep’s decision to go hybrid-only removes a low-priced entry point that several rivals still offer, which helps explain why the Cherokee looks expensive at first glance.
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2025): Starts around $34,050 (LE), rising into the low-$40Ks in upper trims—~$3K less than the base Cherokee. Toyota has previewed an all-hybrid RAV4 lineup for 2026, but official 2026 pricing isn’t posted yet.
- Kia Sportage Hybrid: Recent tests and first drives cite starting prices in the low $30Ks (e.g., ~$31,735 for 2026 models), typically undercutting the Cherokee by several thousand dollars trim for trim.
- Honda CR-V Hybrid (2026): Honda’s own pricing tool lists a $35,630 starting MSRP for the Sport Hybrid, with upper trims reaching the low-$40Ks bracketing the Cherokee’s mid-trims. (Some outlets list slightly higher figures depending on destination.)
Bottom line: The Cherokee’s base price lands above the typical entry point for hybrid rivals, and its upper trims overlap with top-spec versions of those competitors. In exchange, Jeep emphasizes standard AWD, notable approach/departure angles for the class, and a towing figure many compact hybrids don’t match.
Why It Matters
The Cherokee is one of Jeep’s most recognizable nameplates. Bringing it back as hybrid-only signals where Jeep expects mainstream buyers to be in the next few years: leaning toward fuel-saving tech but not ready to go full EV. It also lines up against the RAV4 and CR-V—the segment’s volume leaders—with a more overtly “Jeep” styling and capability pitch.
When You Can Get One
Reviewers and Jeep communications point to late 2025 initial deliveries, with broader availability into early 2026. Expect additional trims (including Trailhawk) and final EPA numbers closer to on-sale timing.
Quick Answers (User Intent)
How much will the 2026 Jeep Cherokee cost?
From $36,995 for the base Hybrid to $45,995 for the Overland, before destination and options.
Is it worth it versus a RAV4/CR-V/Sportage Hybrid?
On pure price, the Cherokee starts higher than many rivals. If you value standard AWD, class-strong approach/departure angles, and 3,500-lb towing in a compact hybrid, Jeep’s pitch makes sense. If your priority is lowest purchase price or max fuel economy per dollar, Toyota, Honda, and Kia typically open a few thousand dollars lower.
Does Jeep offer a cheaper, non-hybrid Cherokee?
No—the new Cherokee is hybrid-only. That’s a key reason its “entry” price looks higher; competitors often still offer cheaper non-hybrid trims. (Toyota’s next RAV4 is moving hybrid-only, but 2026 pricing hasn’t been published.)
What’s next?
Watch for Trailhawk details (low-range hardware and extra clearance/tires would push capability and price), final EPA mpg, and tow ratings confirmation as production nears.
