The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long balanced on-road comfort with real off-road capability, and the 2026 model year leans into that formula with a few meaningful updates. Jeep focuses its attention on making the lower trims more compelling, putting the spotlight on the Laredo and Laredo X. While both are at the bottom of the lineup, the differences between them are enough to matter if you're deciding how far up the trim ladder you should go.
Key Takeaways:
- Jeep adds an available 324-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine for 2026.
- A 12.3-inch infotainment screen becomes standard across the lineup.
- 2026 Grand Cherokee models are available now.
What Changes Across the Grand Cherokee Range for 2026?
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee receives a light refresh in its styling and technology. Updates to the front and rear give the SUV a slightly revised look, while the interior benefits from a larger center touchscreen included on every trim. Jeep also expands the powertrain lineup with a new turbocharged four-cylinder from Stellantis' Hurricane engine family, offering more output than the standard V-6. Alongside the 12.3-inch center display, Jeep introduces an optional 10.3-inch passenger-side screen across the lineup.
Current pricing for the 2026 Grand Cherokee lineup is as follows:
- Laredo: $40,730
- Laredo X: $45,000 (est)
- Limited: $45,985
- Altitude: $46,025
- Laredo Altitude: $46,135
- Limited Reserve: $53,580
- Limited Altitude: $55,000 (est)
- Summit: $62,585
What Are the Differences between the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo and Laredo X?
The Grand Cherokee Laredo sits above the Laredo A in the lineup and adds a fuller equipment set without moving into the higher trims. Available four-wheel drive and traction features give it more capability when road conditions change, whether those changes are weather-related or due to uneven pavement.
Laredo X builds on that foundation with upgrades aimed at refinement rather than capability. It adds higher-quality interior materials, expanded technology features, and a more finished presentation overall. The result is a trim that feels more upscale without moving into the higher-priced middle trims of the lineup.
| Features | 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo | 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo X |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain Options | Available in both 4x2 and 4x4 | Available in both 4x2 and 4x4 |
| Performance Systems | Quadra-Trac I® Active On-Demand 4x4 and Jeep Selec-Terrain® Traction Management | Quadra-Trac I® Active On-Demand 4x4 and Jeep Selec-Terrain® Traction Management |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 6,200 lbs | -- |
| Extra Features | -- | Heated front and second-row seats |
| Extra Features | -- | Heated steering wheel |
| Extra Features | -- | Power liftgate |
| Extra Features | -- | Sunroof |
| Extra Features | -- | Wireless charging pad |
| Extra Features | -- | 8-way power front passenger seat |
| Extra Features | -- | Memory settings for driver's seat and mirrors |
| Extra Features | -- | Ambient LED interior lighting |
| Extra Features | -- | Active Noise Control |
What is the Standard Engine Found in the 2026 Grand Cherokee?
Most 2026 Grand Cherokee trims come standard with a 3.6-liter V-6 producing 293 horsepower. Jeep also offers a 324-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder as an available alternative. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Rear-wheel drive is standard, while buyers can choose from three available all-wheel-drive systems. These range in capability, with the most advanced setup able to direct all available power to a single wheel if that's the only point of traction.
Does the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Get Good Gas Mileage?
It's rated at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, and those figures remain the same whether the vehicle is equipped with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Towing capacity carries over unchanged as well, with a maximum rating of 6,200 pounds.
Is the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Better than the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo X?
Both the Laredo and Laredo X are strong entry points into the Grand Cherokee lineup. Your choice largely comes down to how much refinement and technology you want. The Laredo keeps it basic, while the Laredo X adds comfort and polish without pushing you into higher trim pricing.
To see how each one feels in person, you can visit the showroom at Alan Jay in Clewiston and take one (or both!) for a test drive. Once you've found your SUV, financing is a breeze with our 100% transparent pricing guarantee. Customers love the Alan Jay Way, that's why they come back to purchase with us again and again. Come and see for yourself.