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All-New 2026 Jeep® Cherokee (KM) Prepares for Debut Late 2025

Jeep’s First-Ever North American Hybrid-Only SUV Breaks Cover This Year

Jeep® fans, the wait is almost over. The all-new 2026 Jeep Cherokee (KM) is on its way, and it’s bringing a big change with it: it’s going hybrid-only. That’s right—this will be the first North American Jeep vehicle offered exclusively with a hybrid powertrain. No gas-only or plug-in (PHEV) options—just one smart, fuel-saving setup built for adventure.

2026 Jeep® Cherokee (KM) Teaser. (Jeep).

Jeep confirmed today that the completely reimagined Cherokee will make its official debut later this year and land in dealerships in late 2025. The new model will slot perfectly between the Compass and Grand Cherokee in Jeep’s lineup, giving midsize SUV shoppers something fresh, capable, and more efficient.

Under the hood, the new Cherokee it said to feature a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a three-speed hybrid automatic transmission. Built in Michigan at the Dundee Engine Plant, the new powertrain is expected to deliver solid power while boosting fuel economy. And yes, 4×4 capability will remain standard—because this is still a Jeep.

2026 Jeep® Cherokee (KM) Teaser Shot. (Jeep).

Design-wise, this Cherokee doesn’t try to be something it’s not. It ditches the sloping coupe-like rooflines and aggressive spoilers found on some crossovers and instead leans into its rugged SUV roots. Think strong lines, squared-off proportions, and a proper upright stance. The iconic seven-slot grille returns, and bold new LED headlights give it a modern touch without losing its Jeep identity.

Inside, early spy shots reveal a clean and upscale interior with a tech-forward layout. While full details are still under wraps, expect Jeep to pack it with new infotainment features, advanced safety tech, and a comfortable cabin that’s road-trip ready.

2026 Jeep® Cherokee (KM) Latitude 4×4. (KGP Photography).

“The all-new Jeep Cherokee headlines our efforts to deliver more product, innovation, choice and standard content to customers than ever before,” said Bob Broderdorf, Jeep CEO. “Jeep Cherokee will boast competitive pricing that strikes at the core of the largest vehicle segment and sits perfectly between Jeep Compass and Jeep Grand Cherokee to bolster our winning mainstream lineup.”

If this early look is any indication, Jeep is giving us a true midsize SUV with the performance, space, and efficiency drivers need—without watering down the brand’s off-road heritage. The new KM is shaping up to be a big deal for Jeep, and for anyone looking to drive something new, capable, and green without going full EV.

2026 Jeep® Cherokee (KM) Latitude 4×4 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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If it’s hybrid only I’m not biting yet. Perhaps there is a Pentastar V-6 lurking. Ten years in two wonderful current generation Cherokees has me sold on this Jeep, but I’m just not there on a hybrid. I’ll test one for sure but is there any chance us old school gas engine guys get something, you know, old school?

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If no ICE only option they have lost a potential customer in me. Hopefully they’ll eventually offer the Pentastar V6 or a 4 cylinder 2.0 litre turbo as in the Hornet. With the shrinking of interest in EVs one would think they should know better than to offer only hybrid power.

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It will be hybrid only at launch

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Hybrid is not EV. Hybrid is the right powertrain for the majority of customers - no range anxiety but improved efficiency. Plus it removes the dreaded start stop feature since car can move while the engine is off. When done right, many people will not be able to tell a difference in drivability.

Really enjoy the hybrid powertrain in my Camry.

Reply 7 likes

If no ICE only option they have lost a potential customer in me. Hopefully they’ll eventually offer the Pentastar V6 or a 4 cylinder 2.0 litre turbo as in the Hornet. With the shrinking of interest in EVs one would think they should know better than to offer only hybrid power.

Why then is Toyota is moving all Hybrids? People do not equate EVs with Hybrids at all, and EV interesting is not shrinking it just not growing as fast the product planner envisioned.

Many model now, sales are being limited not because of Hybrids but because for the lack of capacity in hybrids. They in general, unless you get a PHEV behave in way that is invisible to the users. Fill Gas and push the go pedal, PHEV give you the same experience with a start up boast.

I am no longer interested in any vehicle that doesn't have hybrid after owning 2, even the Hurricane Charger likely needs at least a mild boast, to remove the torque converter for me to buy it.

And please let the Pentastar rest in peace, what a wonderful engine for its time, for its time.

Edit: Despite what Forbes said, it looks like we will Get the Punch.... I would prefer a 2.0 with ZF like JGC... Maybe we will get a updated model.

I will wait a few year to see how the Punch does.

Reply 4 likes

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