2026 Jeep Cherokee Updated with Rugged Design and Hybrid Power

After a three-year hiatus, the Jeep Cherokee is set to return to production, with the American automaker revealing the first official images of the upcoming 2026 model. Described by the company as having been “reimagined from the ground up,” the new Cherokee marks a significant departure from its predecessor, both visually and mechanically. Will it come to India? Well, only time will tell.

The most immediate change is in the styling. The previous Cherokee, known for its relatively conservative design, has been replaced by a more upright, rugged exterior. The front end is notably squared off, aligning more closely with the brand’s off-road heritage and offering a sharper contrast to the rounded lines of the outgoing model, which was discontinued in 2023.

While full technical specifications have not yet been released, Jeep has confirmed that the 2026 Cherokee will offer a hybrid powertrain. However, the company has not specified whether it will be a plug-in hybrid or a conventional hybrid system. The introduction of a hybrid variant could provide the Cherokee with a competitive edge in a segment that has seen growing consumer demand for fuel-efficient and electrified SUVs.

The revived Cherokee is expected to resume its role in the Jeep lineup between the compact Compass and the larger Grand Cherokee. This mid-size positioning suggests it will continue to cater to buyers seeking a balance between urban usability and off-road capability. Production is expected to begin in late 2025, with full pricing, detailed specifications, and additional images to be released closer to launch.