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Jeep® Unveils Refreshed 2026 Grand Cherokee Lineup

New Hurricane4 Engine, Updated Design, and Enhanced Tech Lead the Way

For 2026, the Jeep® Grand Cherokee lineup (WL) has been given a fresh dose of refinement and innovation. Launched in 2021, the fifth-generation model has proven to be one of the brand’s most versatile and capable SUVs to date. Now, halfway through its life cycle, Jeep has pulled the covers off an updated Grand Cherokee that adds a new powertrain option, new interior tech, and design updates to help it stay ahead of the competition in the midsize SUV segment.

Refined Lineup for 2026 –

2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Summit. (Jeep).

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup remains as comprehensive as ever, offering three distinct configurations — the two-row Grand Cherokee, the three-row Grand Cherokee L, and the two-row Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Each variant has been refined to better suit customers, from off-road enthusiasts to families to luxury-minded buyers.

While the lineup strategy remains familiar, the powertrain department gets its biggest shake-up yet. The award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 returns as standard power for the Laredo trims. Producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, the Pentastar continues to be a reliable, smooth performer paired with the proven 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission. Jeep confirmed that customer demand played a major role in retaining the V6, proving that traditional power still has a strong following.

However, the biggest news is the debut of Jeep’s all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged Hurricane4 I4 engine — a compact powerhouse designed to deliver impressive performance and fuel efficiency.

Introducing the Hurricane4 Engine – 

The all-new turbocharged 2.0-liter Hurricane4 I4. (Jeep).

The all-new Hurricane4 engine is a completely re-engineered turbocharged I4 designed to replace and surpass the outgoing GME-T4 found in several Stellantis vehicles. Delivering 324 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. of torque, it stands out with an incredible 162 horsepower per liter — making it one of the most potent engines in its class.

But numbers only tell part of the story. The Hurricane4 employs Stellantis’ cutting-edge Turbulent Jet Ignition (TJI) combustion technology for the first time in a high-volume vehicle. TJI uses a small pre-chamber above each cylinder to ignite a richer fuel mixture, which then jets into the main combustion chamber to ignite the leaner mixture more efficiently. The result? Faster, cleaner combustion that delivers more power while consuming less fuel and producing fewer emissions.

Backing the new engine is a newly developed 880RE 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission, a Stellantis-built unit based on ZF’s fourth-generation 8-speed architecture. Together, this pairing helps the Grand Cherokee achieve 21 MPG city, 23 MPG combined, and 27 MPG highway — impressive for a vehicle of its size and capability. Even better, Jeep claims a best-in-class driving range of 506 miles from its 23-gallon fuel tank.

Despite being smaller in displacement, the Hurricane4 doesn’t compromise on performance. It delivers 80% of its peak torque at 2,300 rpm, with full torque available from 3,000 to 4,500 rpm. And when it comes to work duty, it’s just as capable as the V6 — boasting a 6,200-pound towing capacity.

Modernized Design and Technology – 

2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Summit. (Jeep).

Visually, the 2026 Grand Cherokee lineup receives a freshened appearance that keeps it modern yet unmistakably Jeep. Up front, a revised seven-slot grille integrates more seamlessly with slimmer LED headlights featuring new daytime running light (DRL) signatures. Non-Trailhawk models receive more aggressive front and rear fascia designs that enhance the SUV’s stance without compromising its premium appeal.

Inside, Jeep focused on ergonomics and technology. A new 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment display is now standard across most models, offering a faster, more intuitive interface. The system supports over-the-air updates, Alexa integration, and simultaneous wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ connectivity.

The push-to-start button has been relocated to a more ergonomic position — now centered at the base of the instrument panel, with a button similar to the one in the all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee (KM). New haptic climate-control buttons are positioned just above it for cleaner operation, while the center stack receives subtle design refinements.

The passenger side gets its own optional 10.25-inch interactive display, allowing front passengers to control media and navigation and view the rear camera. For audiophiles, Jeep continues to offer the McIntosh® MX950 premium sound system, with a 17-channel amplifier producing up to 950 watts through 19 speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer.

Simplified Trim Lineup – 

2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Summit. (Jeep).

Jeep has streamlined the Grand Cherokee lineup into four main trims for 2026: Laredo (exclusive to gas models), Limited, Summit, and Trailhawk (exclusive to 4xe models).

Laredo

The Laredo remains the entry point, powered by the Pentastar V6 and featuring a solid foundation of comfort and safety. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, and a suite of driver-assist technologies, including Active Lane Management, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path Detection, and Automatic Emergency Braking.

The Laredo X builds on this with additional convenience features, including heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power liftgate, a sunroof, and a wireless charging pad.

The new Laredo Altitude trim marks a significant step up — bringing the Hurricane4 engine into the mix. It also introduces Jeep’s Selec-Terrain 4×4 system to the Laredo family, along with advanced driver-assist features like Traffic Sign Recognition and Intersection Collision Assist. 

Limited

The Limited trim continues to serve as the heart of the lineup and is available with two appearance and equipment packages — Limited Reserve and Limited Altitude.

  • Limited Reserve adds 20-inch black wheels, body-color lower fascias, Nappa leather seats, ventilated front seats, a dual-pane sunroof, and darkened exterior accents. It also includes premium tech, such as a digital rearview mirror and an integrated off-road camera.

  • Limited Altitude offers a sportier appearance, dark exterior trim, and 20-inch black wheels with a panoramic sunroof.

Optional add-ons for the Limited include Jeep’s Night Vision system, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a digital rearview mirror for enhanced visibility and safety.

Summit

At the top sits the Summit, Jeep’s most luxurious Grand Cherokee trim. Inside, it introduces Oak and Liquid Chrome accents, Palermo leather upholstery, a suede headliner, and massaging front seats. The Summit also features the Quadra-Trac II 4×4 system with air suspension, delivering superior ride comfort and off-road capability.

Grand Cherokee L: Space and Versatility – 

2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve. (Jeep).

The three-row Grand Cherokee L returns for 2026 with the same simplified trim structure. It offers best-in-class second-row legroom, a spacious third row, and generous cargo capacity. Jeep also added new USB charging ports for the third row, along with optional 60/40 split-folding second-row seating to maximize flexibility.

As before, the L shares most of its powertrain lineup with the two-row model, offering both the Pentastar V6 and Hurricane4 engines depending on trim level.

Grand Cherokee 4xe: Electrified Capability – 

2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe. (Jeep).

The Grand Cherokee 4xe PHEV continues to lead Jeep’s electrified efforts. Available in Limited, Summit, and Trailhawk trims, it pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged GME-T4 engine with two electric motors for a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. It remains one of the top-selling PHEVs in the U.S., offering a 470-mile total range and impressive off-road prowess.

For 2026, the Trailhawk 4xe — the most capable Grand Cherokee of all — adopts new red tow hooks in place of the previous Surf Blue design and returns to a more rugged look reminiscent of the gas-powered Trailhawk from 2022.

With a class-leading departure angle, off-road range, and torque, the Trailhawk continues to represent Jeep’s legendary off-road DNA.

Made in Detroit – 

2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe. (Jeep).

Production of the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup will continue at the Detroit Assembly Complex – Jefferson and Mack facilities, maintaining Jeep’s deep connection to its Motor City roots.

The updated 2026 Grand Cherokee lineup reflects a perfect blend of traditional Jeep capability, modern efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. With the introduction of the Hurricane4 engine and refreshed styling, Jeep ensures its flagship SUV remains one of the most well-rounded choices in the midsize SUV segment.

2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Image Gallery:

 

Robert S. Miller

Robert S. Miller is a diehard Mopar enthusiast who lives and breathes all that is Mopar. The Michigander is not only the Editor for MoparInsiders.com, 5thGenRams.com, and HDRams.com but an automotive photographer. He is an avid fan of offshore powerboat racing, which he travels the country to take part in.

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I was excited when I saw the Trailhawk with red recovery hooks and thought they brought back the ICE Trailhawk, but apparently not.

I didn't see anything about the batteries in the PHEV being updated, are they the same batteries as before? A PHEV Trailhawk would be my preferred replacement for my KL, (or even a hybrid one) but I'm not sure after seeing past problems with them, and the warranty goofiness that is happening.

Also, sad to see the climate buttons are gone, replaced with the goofy haptic touch panel.

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I am expecting the new Battery and ZF the Wrangler received. Samsung fixed the separator issue about what a year ago, but looking forward to higher capacity battery.

Cars are going be like computers... there will always be a newer better battery if you wait... just got to pull the trigger.

I have to say mine has had little integration issues since the Samsung fix. First the washer pump wouldn't pump. Then the 73C now the washer pump work but he memory seat does not. Bring the old integration programmers back.

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