The 2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee (WL) has been spotted once again, this time showing off more of its refreshed look and upgraded features. KGP Photography captured the two-row Grand Cherokee Summit High Altitude testing, giving us the clearest view yet of what’s to come.
The High Altitude Package ups the visual ante with sleek blacked-out elements, including the grille, roof rails, and a fresh set of 21-inch gloss black wheels. The front fascia is getting a mild but meaningful revision with a reshaped bumper and a newly designed grille that closely resembles what we’ve already seen on the upcoming 2026 Jeep Cherokee (KM). This unified design direction helps align the Grand Cherokee lineup with Jeep’s future look.
More Premium Inside and Out –
While the outside is getting a sportier edge, the interior of the 2026 Grand Cherokee focuses on comfort and technology. Expect high-end materials like soft leather, ambient lighting, and updated wood trim, making the cabin feel as refined as it is rugged.
At the heart of the interior will be Jeep’s 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system, though top-tier trims like the Summit High Altitude appear to get an even larger square-style touchscreen similar to what’s found in the Grand Wagoneer. Spy photos show physical knobs at the base of the screen, paired with haptic touch buttons around the edge—giving drivers a mix of tactile and digital controls.
The climate controls have been moved to allow for more usable space in the center console, while new tech features include improved connectivity, built-in navigation, and a high-end sound system.
New GME-T4 EVO Engine Debuts –
The most important update for 2026 is under the hood. Jeep is replacing both the long-running 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and the 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 with an all-new turbocharged 2.0-liter GME-T4 EVO inline-four-cylinder engine.
This new standard-output (S/O) powerplant is expected to deliver around 300 horsepower, putting it right in line with midsize SUV competitors like the Ford Explorer ST, which is known for its strong performance from a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. The new GME-T4 EVO should provide a similar punch while also helping Jeep meet tougher fuel economy and emissions rules.
The two-row Grand Cherokee will continue to offer a 4xe plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version for buyers wanting even more efficiency. However, the Grand Cherokee L will only be offered with the GME-T4 EVO, streamlining engine choices and simplifying the buying process.
Plant Rework Pauses Production Temporarily –
Stellantis has announced temporary pauses at the Detroit Assembly Complex – Mack and Jefferson North plants to prepare for this update. Production will stop the week of April 28, with Mack going offline again the week of May 19 to finalize changes for the 2026 model year. Production of the current 2025 models will be extended slightly to smooth the transition.
Sources say the engineering team has been working through final bugs tied to the vehicle’s new electrical system—similar issues have cropped up during the development of the new Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer S. The extra time should give the team enough breathing room to get everything dialed in before launch.
2025 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Summit High Altitude 4×4 Image Gallery:
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