2026 Jeep Cherokee

Northland Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Prince George presents the 2026 Jeep Cherokee, a thoroughly reworked midsize SUV merging hybrid efficiency with traditional off-road competence. The powertrain pairs a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a 1.08-kWh battery pack, producing a unified 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid architecture achieves estimated fuel consumption as low as 6.4 L/100 km in combined scenarios, while the 51.9-litre tank supports theoretical driving distances approaching 800 kilometres between fill-ups. Constructed on the STLA-Large platform, the Cherokee measures 4,778 mm from end to end with a 2,869-mm wheelbase providing structural integrity. Every Cherokee includes Jeep Active Drive I 4x4 featuring rear-axle disconnect, paired with Selec-Terrain management offering Auto, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud programs for varying terrain.

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Your Guide to the new 2026 Jeep Cherokee

Exterior

Defined edges and flat panels characterize the Cherokee's external design, moving away from the curved aesthetics common in many crossover vehicles. Boxy LED headlamp units incorporating U-shaped daytime running signatures bracket the seven-slot grille, establishing instant Jeep identity. The styling approach deliberately references Cherokee iterations from earlier eras while integrating modern lighting technology and refined aerodynamics. Physical dimensions span 4,778 mm in length, 1,898 mm across the body, and 1,715 mm in height to the roof rail--measurements placing this vehicle firmly within midsize parameters.

Clearance beneath the chassis registers 204 mm at the centre measurement point, increasing to 262 mm forward at the front axle and decreasing to 236 mm rearward at the rear axle. Step-in height to the door sill measures 470 mm. Trail capability includes a 19.6-degree approach angle at the front, an 18.8-degree breakover angle at the centre, and a 29.4-degree departure angle at the rear--angles permitting navigation of rough terrain and steep inclines without scraping contact. Rear lighting assemblies take design inspiration from military fuel canister forms, creating recognizable illumination patterns at night. Wheel sizes differ across the lineup: Cherokee, Laredo, and Limited variants mount 18-inch aluminium wheels, while Overland models receive 20-inch units. Despite the upright profile, aerodynamic testing yields a 0.335 drag coefficient.

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Interior

The cabin's focal point consists of a 12.3-inch touchscreen display operating Uconnect 5 software, mounted high in the dashboard for optimal viewing. A 10.25-inch digital display replaces traditional analog instrumentation ahead of the driver, offering configurable information presentations. Both displays appear regardless of trim level selection. A rotary transmission selector replaces conventional shifters, opening console space for storage compartments and wireless charging areas. Front seating delivers 1,050 mm of legroom paired with 1,023 mm of headroom in configurations lacking the optional panoramic sunroof; adding the glass roof reduces headroom to 965 mm. First-row shoulder span measures 1,465 mm across.

Second-row accommodations include 977 mm of legroom and 1,022 mm of headroom in base configuration. Seatback adjustment operates through manual mechanisms spanning 8 to 76 degrees, or power systems ranging from 8 to 55.25 degrees. Storage capacity behind the raised second row measures 952.1 litres, expanding to 1,935.0 litres with rear seats folded forward. The rear hatch opening measures 1,149 mm wide and 713 mm tall, positioned 792 mm above ground level. Interior width between wheel arches spans 1,103 mm, accommodating broader cargo items. Colour schemes default to Global Black, with Arctic available on Laredo, Limited, and Overland specifications. Material selections emphasize sustainability, incorporating recycled content in carpeting and leather alternatives in certain applications.

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Features

Powertrain

The internal combustion component comprises a turbocharged 1.6-litre inline-four engine featuring aluminum block and head construction. Operating independently, this powerplant develops 177 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 221 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 3,500 rpm. Dual overhead camshafts incorporate variable timing mechanisms on intake and exhaust sides, complemented by an 11.3:1 compression ratio optimizing combustion efficiency. Central direct injection delivers fuel under pressure, with calibration for regular 87-octane gasoline. Engine assembly occurs at Dundee Engine Plant in Michigan.

Hybrid components include two electric motors and a 400-volt, 1.08-kWh battery employing NCM-Graphite cell technology. Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy during deceleration, storing it for later deployment. Combined system peaks reach 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque when all sources contribute simultaneously. An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) manages power distribution through a power-split hybrid design in transverse orientation, featuring a 4.518 final drive ratio. Jeep Active Drive I 4x4 incorporates rear-axle disconnect capability, enabling front-wheel-drive operation for efficiency when four-wheel traction isn't required. When conditions demand, the system distributes torque in a 50:50 front-to-rear split, or can route all torque forward if rear wheels lack grip. Selec-Terrain provides four settings: Auto for general use, Sport for enhanced throttle response, Snow for icy surface management, and Sand/Mud for loose terrain optimization. Final vehicle assembly takes place at Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico.

Technology

Uconnect 5 handles infotainment duties through the standard 12.3-inch touchscreen interface. Wireless connectivity supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto without cable requirements. Over-the-air update capability permits remote software improvements without service appointments. AppMarket functionality grants access to applications including Geocaching and The Dyrt for outdoor navigation, plus entertainment content like Sudoku. Connect ONE arrives bundled at no additional cost for 10 years on every Cherokee, incorporating OTA updates, smartphone app vehicle control, and automatic emergency calling.

Passive keyless entry recognizes the fob's presence and unlocks doors automatically. Rain-sensing wiper operation adjusts sweep speed based on precipitation detection. The 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster can display hybrid power flow diagrams, navigation guidance, or conventional speed and tachometer readouts according to driver preference. Optional technology additions include surround-view camera coverage spanning 360 degrees, front tire-to-curb visualization for parking accuracy, turn signal-activated blind spot imagery shown in the instrument display, digital rearview mirror functionality, and foot-gesture power liftgate with memory settings. Premium audio systems and Alexa voice assistant integration are also available. Beyond the standard 10-year Connect ONE offering, customers can subscribe to Connect PLUS for expanded connected features.

Available Trim Levels and Configurations

The 2026 Cherokee lineup presents four trim levels, all featuring the hybrid powertrain, standard 4x4 system, and comprehensive safety technologies. Distinctions emerge through wheel styling, interior treatments, and optional equipment availability.

Cherokee 4x4: Foundation model equipped with 18 x 7-inch aluminium wheels, Global Black cloth seating, and complete safety equipment including Active Driving Assist, automatic emergency braking, and Blind-spot Monitoring as standard.
Laredo 4x4: Maintains 18-inch wheel fitment while unlocking options including dual-pane panoramic sunroof, foot-activated power liftgate, and Arctic interior colour choice.
Limited 4x4: Features painted diamond-cut 18 x 7-inch aluminium wheels and expanded luxury options including ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, 360-degree camera system, and digital rearview mirror.
Overland 4x4: Premium trim showcasing painted diamond-cut 20 x 8-inch wheels, 235/50R20XL Pirelli Scorpion tyres, distinctive upholstery perforation design, and access to top-tier features including premium audio, windshield wiper de-icer, and Alexa assistant.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Cherokee handle northern British Columbia winters?

The hybrid powertrain operates reliably in the cold temperatures typical of Prince George winters, though battery performance decreases as temperatures fall well below freezing. The gasoline engine assumes primary propulsion duties during extreme cold while maintaining cabin heating, with electric motors contributing torque assistance for improved traction on snow and ice. Selec-Terrain's Snow mode optimizes throttle response and torque distribution for winter conditions common throughout northern BC. Standard heated front seats provide quick warmth during cold starts. While the 6.4 L/100 km combined fuel consumption estimate reflects moderate temperatures, winter operation typically increases fuel use due to cold starts and reduced battery efficiency.

What cargo space does the Cherokee offer for northern BC activities?

Behind upright second-row seats, cargo volume measures 952.1 litres--sufficient for winter gear, work equipment, or weekly shopping. Folding the rear seats creates 1,935.0 litres of space, accommodating larger items like skis, snowboards, camping gear, or tools. The liftgate opening spans 1,149 mm horizontally and 713 mm vertically. Distance between wheel housings measures 1,103 mm, permitting passage of four-foot-wide items. Maximum payload capacity including all passengers and cargo totals 386 kg (850 lbs). Curb weight registers 1,948 kg with a gross vehicle weight rating of 2,427 kg, providing substantial load-carrying capability.

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The All New 2026

Jeep Cherokee