KGP Photography has captured the first images of a prototype of 2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee L Limited 4×4 testing near the Chrysler Technical Center (CTC) in Auburn Hills, Michigan. This marks the first time a three-row Grand Cherokee L (WL75) for the upcoming model year has been spotted, giving us an exciting look at the potential upgrades and refinements Jeep is working on for its award-winning SUV.
Exterior Refresh and New Technology –
The spy shots show that while the overall shape of the Grand Cherokee L remains consistent with the current model, the 2026 version is expected to feature a refreshed front end. Notable changes include a revised grille and bumper design, giving the SUV a modern yet rugged look. One of the more interesting updates is repositioning sensors higher up in the front fascia, suggesting that enhanced Level 3 autonomous driving features could be part of the package for the new model year.
The prototype in question, a Limited trim, is seen with the familiar 18-inch x 8-inch polished and painted aluminum wheels carried over from the 2024 model. However, as testing continues, Jeep is likely to introduce new wheel designs in the production version.
Powertrain Overhaul: Enter the Hurricane4 –
One of the most significant changes for the 2026 Grand Cherokee L is under the hood. Jeep will introduce an all-new powertrain across the entire lineup, replacing the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and the 5.7-liter HEMI® V8. The new standard engine will be a turbocharged 2.0-liter Hurricane4 four-cylinder, part of Stellantis’ broader strategy to meet stricter Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) regulations. This efficient yet powerful engine is already featured in the current Jeep Wrangler (JL), where it produces 270 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque.
Rumors are circulating that the 2025 Grand Cherokee could receive an enhanced version of this engine, possibly branded the “Hurricane4 EVO,” with power expected to exceed 300 horsepower. This would allow the Grand Cherokee L to compete more directly with midsize SUV rivals like the Ford Explorer, which features a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque.
The two-row Grand Cherokee will continue to offer a 4xe plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option alongside the new turbocharged engine. However, the Grand Cherokee L will exclusively use the Hurricane4 powertrain, simplifying the lineup for buyers.
Interior Upgrades and Technology Advancements –
The 2026 Grand Cherokee L will also receive notable updates inside the cabin. Borrowing technology from Jeep’s larger Wagoneer models, the Grand Cherokee L will feature a 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system. This system will include touch-sensitive controls on either side of the screen and two rotary knobs, promising a more intuitive and user-friendly interface. The capacitive touch climate controls have been relocated, freeing up space in the center console for additional storage.
The dash layout remains largely unchanged from the 2025 model, though Jeep has replaced the piano black buttons above the infotainment system with recessed controls surrounded by a matte-finish bezel featuring grooves for easier handling.
What’s Expected from the 2025 Model –
While we await full details on the 2025 Grand Cherokee L, the features of the 2025 model give us a good idea of what to expect. The current Grand Cherokee L Limited offers high-end features, such as the Selec-Terrain™ traction management system, which provides five driving modes: Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, and Mud/Sand. This ensures optimal performance across various terrains and is expected to remain in the 2026 model.
The 2025 Limited model includes Capri leather seats, an 8-way power driver seat with memory, heated first and second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and advanced tech features like remote start and a power liftgate. Exterior features like LED fog lamps and automatic high-beam headlamps will likely carry over, ensuring the new Grand Cherokee L maintains its premium feel.
The latest spy shots from KGP Photography give a first look at what Jeep has in store for the 2026 Grand Cherokee L Limited 4×4. With refreshed styling, new technology, and an all-new Hurricane4 powertrain, Jeep hopes to continue its grasp on the three-row SUV segment. As the 2026 model year quickly approaches, more details, including performance specs, pricing, and additional features, are expected to be revealed.
2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee L Limited 4×4 Tester Image Gallery:
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