Jeep has launched the 6th-generation Cherokee, its mid-size SUV for the US, built in Mexico. The all-new model adopts the new retro-modern design language of the brand and gets a hybrid drivetrain. While its platform is suited for fully-electric powertrains, Jeep has opted to wait it out.
Every one of Stellantis’s new platforms is suited for full electrification, from the STLA Small architecture for city cars (such as the next-gen Opel Corsa) to the STLA Frame chassis for electric pickup trucks, like the RAM 1500 REV. However, these platforms are also ‘multi-energy,’ meaning they support both combustion and hybrid powertrains.
Hybrid only
And while the new Jeep Cherokee is built on the STLA Large platform, also used on the all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S and the upcoming Alfa Romeo Stelvio, which will be both hybrid and electric, the Cherokee is only available as a hybrid for now.
And it’s not even a plug-in hybrid: the sixth-gen Cherokee relies on a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine (a variant of Peugeot-Citroën’s PureTech engine) and two electric motors, delivering 210 horsepower and 312 Newton-meters of torque.
A small 1.08 kWh battery recovers braking energy, reducing fuel consumption to 37 mpg (6.4 l/100 km). Jeep promises a driving range of over 500 miles (800 km) on a full tank of gas.
4×4 as standard and a roomy interior
The Jeep Cherokee’s hybrid drivetrain powers all four wheels as standard (with automatic coupling and decoupling of the rear wheels) through a CVT transmission. Thanks to 8 inches of ground clearance and best-in-class approach and departure angles of 19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively, it should perform decently off-road, too.
Inside, Jeep promises loads of space. The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is significantly larger than its predecessor (4,778 mm long, 1,898 mm wide, and 1,715 mm tall on a 2,869 mm wheelbase). The trunk is 30% bigger and now stows up to 1,935 liters behind the front seats.
Also for Europe?
The 2026 Cherokee will arrive at dealerships in late 2025, with a starting price of $36,995 (€31,629). Production will take place at Stellantis’ Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico.
When the Cherokee will arrive in Europe is not yet clear. However, an electric version may not be feasible, as the Jeep Wagoneer S already competes in the same segment.
