Jeep Revitalizes Cherokee Lineup with First-Ever Hybrid Model
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Detroit, MI - In a strategic move to combat six consecutive years of declining sales, Jeep unveiled the redesigned 2026 Cherokee on Thursday. This launch marks a pivotal moment for the automaker, introducing its inaugural hybrid powertrain and signaling a renewed commitment to innovation and market share recovery.
A New Chapter for the Iconic Cherokee
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is designed to recapture the spirit of the historically significant Cherokee SUV, a model that has been a cornerstone of the Jeep brand for decades. Jeep previously discontinued the model in 2023 as part of broader cost-cutting initiatives under former CEO Carlos Tavares .
This redesigned Cherokee debuts Stellantis’ new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine, promising over 500 miles of driving range on a single tank of fuel. The vehicle also features a technologically advanced interior, incorporating Stellantis’ Connect One services package.
The new Cherokee boasts increased dimensions-longer, taller, and wider than its predecessor-and offers 30% more cargo space. “The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is an incredibly capable and competitive midsize SUV that’s ready to reclaim our territory in North America’s largest vehicle segment,” stated Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf in a company release.
The base model of the 2026 Cherokee will start at $36,995, including a $1,995 destination charge. Deliveries to dealerships are anticipated to begin in late 2025 and early 2026, with production taking place at Stellantis’ manufacturing facility in Mexico.
Did You Know?
The Cherokee nameplate first appeared in 1974, initially as a trim level for the Jeep Wagoneer before becoming a distinct model in 1984.
The Cherokee’s relaunch comes as Jeep confronts a prolonged period of sales challenges. Stellantis is also grappling with economic pressures, notably the impact of tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, which are projected to cost the company 1.5 billion euros, or approximately $1.74 billion, for the full year .
Antonio Filosa, the current CEO of Stellantis, who assumed the role earlier this year, has emphasized the importance of revitalizing the Jeep brand and regaining market share. Filosa, previously the CEO of Jeep, has long prioritized a Cherokee revival as a key component of this strategy.
Key Cherokee Specs & Timeline
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6-liter Turbo Four Hybrid |
| Range | 500+ Miles |
| Starting Price | $36,995 (including destination) |
| Production Location | Stellantis Mexico Plant |
| Launch Date | Late 2025 / Early 2026 |
Stellantis reported gradual improvements in its first-half earnings in July, signaling a potential turning point. Filosa stated, “My first weeks as CEO have reconfirmed my strong conviction that we will fix what’s wrong in Stellantis by capitalizing on everything that’s right in Stellantis - starting from the strength, energy and ideas of our people, combined with the great new products we are now bringing to market.”
Pro Tip:
Consider the long-term cost benefits of a hybrid vehicle, including potential fuel savings and government incentives, when evaluating the 2026 Jeep Cherokee.
What impact will the new Cherokee have on Jeep’s overall sales figures? And how will Stellantis navigate the ongoing challenges presented by global trade policies?
The automotive industry is undergoing a rapid change, driven by advancements in electric vehicle technology and changing consumer preferences. Jeep’s commitment to hybrid powertrains, as demonstrated by the 2026 Cherokee, positions the brand to compete effectively in this evolving landscape. The shift towards electrification is not merely a technological change but a basic reshaping of the automotive market, with implications for manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers alike. The success of the Cherokee will be a key indicator of Jeep’s ability to adapt and thrive in this new era.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2026 Jeep Cherokee
- What is the starting price of the 2026 Jeep Cherokee? The 2026 Jeep Cherokee starts at $36,995, including a $1,995 destination charge.
- What type of engine does the 2026 Jeep Cherokee have? It features a new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine.
- When will the 2026 Jeep Cherokee be available in dealerships? deliveries are expected to begin in late 2025 and early 2026.
- where will the 2026 Jeep Cherokee be manufactured? Production will take place at Stellantis’ plant in Mexico.
- What is the fuel range of the 2026 Jeep Cherokee? The hybrid powertrain offers over 500 miles of driving range on a single tank of fuel.
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