The Jeep Cherokee is back, and it's completely transformed. After reimagining what today's compact SUV buyers want, Jeep has delivered a Cherokee that addresses every concern from the previous generation. From hybrid efficiency to bold styling, this isn't just a refresh—it's a complete redesign.
Here are the seven most important updates that make the 2026 Cherokee a strong contender in Canada's competitive compact SUV market.
The biggest change is under the hood. The 2026 Cherokee introduces Jeep's first hybrid system in North America—a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. This setup produces 210 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque while achieving an estimated fuel economy as low as 6.4 L/100km combined.
More importantly for Canadian drivers, this hybrid system provides up to 800 kilometres of range on a single tank—the 1.08-kWh battery charges through brake regeneration, so you never plug it in. The system seamlessly switches between electric and gas power depending on driving conditions.
Gone is the controversial rounded styling. The 2026 Cherokee looks back to classic models from the 1980s and 1990s with sharp, squared-off edges and an upright stance. The design team focused on creating big, bold shapes that immediately say "Jeep."
Key design features include boxy LED headlights with distinctive U-shaped daytime running lights, Jeep's iconic seven-slot grille, and jerrican-inspired taillights. The Cherokee is also longer, taller, and wider than before, giving it more presence on the road.
Every Cherokee comes standard with impressive technology that many competitors charge extra for. The centrepiece is a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen running Uconnect 5 with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
You also get a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, heated front seats, passive entry, and rain-sensing wipers—all standard. The interior layout uses a rotary gear selector to free up space for storage, and sustainable materials like recycled floor carpets show Jeep's environmental focus.
One of the most practical improvements is cargo capacity. The 2026 Cherokee offers 952 litres behind the second row and an impressive 1,935 litres with seats folded—that's 30% more space than the previous Cherokee.
To put this in perspective, you can now fit an additional large dog crate in the rear cargo area with the seats down. The larger interior dimensions also mean more passenger room throughout the cabin.
Safety technology that used to cost extra is now standard across all Cherokee trims. Every model includes Active Driving Assist (Level 2 semi-autonomous driving), Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection, and Intersection Collision Assist.
Additional standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, drowsy driver detection, and rear park assistance with automatic emergency braking. Jeep counts 140 total standard and available safety features.
Like all modern Jeep SUVs, the Cherokee comes standard with capable four-wheel drive. The Jeep Active Drive I system includes a rear axle disconnect for improved fuel economy during highway driving.
Selec-Terrain traction management offers four modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud. The Cherokee also delivers impressive approach and departure angles of 19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively, with 204 mm of ground clearance for light off-road adventures.
Despite all these upgrades, the Cherokee remains competitively priced. The entry-level Cherokee starts at $42,390, which includes destination fees. Higher trims include Laredo ($47,390), Limited ($52,390), and range-topping Overland ($56,390).
For context, this positions the Cherokee right in the heart of the compact SUV market, competing directly with popular models like the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester.
|
Update |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Hybrid Power |
1.6L turbo + electric, 210 hp, 6.4 L/100km |
|
Design |
Bold, boxy styling inspired by classic models |
|
Technology |
Standard 12.3" screen, wireless connectivity |
|
Cargo Space |
952L/1,935L, 30% increase over the previous |
|
Safety |
140 standard/available features, Level 2 assist |
|
Capability |
Standard AWD, Selec-Terrain, 1,587 kg towing |
|
Value |
Starting at $42,390, arrives late 2025 |
The completely redesigned Cherokee will arrive at our Mississauga showroom in late 2025, starting with Limited and Overland trims. The entry-level Cherokee and Laredo models will follow in early 2026. Stop by to learn more about how this all-new SUV addresses everything Canadian families want in a compact vehicle.
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