Jeep® Prepares to Unveil the All-New 2026 Cherokee Tonight

The wait is finally over—Jeep® is about to reintroduce one of its most recognizable nameplates back into the lineup. The all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee (KM) will make its world debut tonight, marking the brand’s return to the highly competitive midsize SUV segment in North America.

A Long-Awaited Comeback – 

The Cherokee has been absent from Jeep’s U.S. portfolio since February 2023, when the last-generation Cherokee (KL) was discontinued. Its departure left Jeep without a true player in the D-SUV category, the second-largest segment in North America behind full-size pickups. Jeep is aiming to correct that with a bold new model that blends heritage-inspired styling with modern performance and technology.

A Name with History – 

First launched in 1974, the Cherokee quickly became one of Jeep’s most important vehicles. The second-generation Cherokee (XJ), sold from 1984 to 2001, is still widely considered one of the brand’s most iconic products, often ranked just behind the original Willys MB and the Wagoneer in significance. With its boxy design, off-road capability, and affordable pricing, the XJ defined what an SUV should be and became a staple of American driveways for nearly two decades.

From Liberty to Revival – 

Following the September 11, 2001, attacks, Jeep shifted the Cherokee name to international markets and renamed its U.S. successor the Liberty. Two generations of Liberty carried the Cherokee badge overseas, but it wasn’t until 2013 that Jeep brought the name back home with the fifth-generation Cherokee. Built on the Compact U.S. Wide platform, the KL gave Jeep a fresh entry into the midsize SUV space but struggled in its final years due to supply chain issues and internal competition from the Compass.

The Future Starts Tonight – 

Now, Jeep is ready to reset the Cherokee story with a clean-sheet design. 

Fans can follow the action tonight starting at 7:30 p.m. EDT on MoparInsiders.com, with full coverage of the debut. Then, at 7:45 p.m. EDT, our very own Robert Miller will host a livestream watch party on The Mopar Junkie YouTube channel to break down all the details as Jeep pulls the wraps off its newest SUV.

After two years away, the Cherokee is back—and Jeep is hoping it will once again be the SUV that redefines the segment.