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The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been doing its thing since the early ’90s in balancing everyday comfort with real off-road chops, and it’s still one of the most familiar SUVs on the road. It’s rugged, it’s capable, and it’s never really gone out of style. Let's break down what we know so far about the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee midsize SUV.
Key Takeaways
- The tried-and-true 3.6-liter V6 will likely return as the base engine.
- A refresh could include updated styling and upgraded interior tech.
- Fuel economy should stay around 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
A Refreshed Grand Cherokee Is (Probably) on the Way
Jeep hasn’t spilled all the beans just yet, but it sounds like the 2026 Grand Cherokee is getting a mid-cycle update. Nothing dramatic—think revised exterior touches, newer screens inside, and maybe even the Hurricane inline-six we’ve all been hearing about. If that makes it under the hood, you can expect a nice bump in both power and efficiency over the aging V6 that’s been holding down the base spot for years.
As for electric options, the Grand Cherokee 4xe is still the closest you’re going to get to a plug-in version. It blends gas and electric power for better efficiency without ditching the Jeep capability. If you’re itching for a fully electric Jeep, the new Wagoneer S might be more your speed—but fair warning, it’s more of a pavement cruiser than a trail machine.
What’s Under the Grand Cherokee Hood?
Unless Jeep throws a curveball, the standard engine will still be the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. It makes 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive should come standard, with four-wheel drive available—or standard—on higher trims.
Want to skip the gas station a little more often? Stick with the 4xe. It offers about 25 miles of all-electric range before the gas engine takes over.
Fuel economy numbers for the V6 should stick around 19 mpg in the city and 26 on the highway, with over 500 miles of range if you fill the tank. But if you’re really looking to save on fuel, the plug-in is still your best bet.
What’s Going on Inside the Grand Cherokee?
Even without big changes, the Grand Cherokee’s interior still looks solid, refined, functional, and clean. That said, Jeep might swap the current 10.1-inch touchscreen for the Wagoneer S’s larger 12.3-inch unit in the 2026 update. The usual stuff should still be there: wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, digital driver display, and USB ports in both rows. The optional passenger-side screen should stick around, too.
Cargo space stays competitive, with 37.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 70.8 cubic feet if you fold them down. That’s decent, though some rivals do offer more. Need a third row? The Grand Cherokee L is your answer. It stretches the wheelbase and adds seating for up to seven, but otherwise keeps the same overall vibe.
Should You Consider the 2026 Grand Cherokee?
The 2026 Grand Cherokee doesn’t need to reinvent itself. What it does need—and what Jeep might deliver—is a refresh that keeps it competitive without messing with the formula. If you’re even remotely interested in what the next model year brings, keep in touch! Once the 2026 models hit the lot, they won’t be around for long.