A Cherokee That Parks Itself? Testing the Jeep ParkSense
About this episode
Tom Bult puts the all-new sixth-generation Jeep Cherokee Overland hybrid to the test, focusing on its ParkSense self-parking technology. Before diving into the tech, he shares quick impressions of the SUV, praising its styling and driving dynamics while noting concerns over Stellantis reliability and the lack of a spare tire. The highlight is a real-time demonstration of the self-parking system. While slightly slow, the feature proves impressively accurate at avoiding wheel rash and navigating tight spaces, making it a genuine help for drivers who struggle with parallel parking.
The new 2026 Jeep Cherokee has a lot tech in it. For starters, a hybrid powertrain comes standard. And ParkSense self-parking technology is available in the top trim Overland version as an option. Self-parking systems are not new, but the Jeep tech is especially easy to figure out. It works when parallel plus forward and backward perpendicular parking. You may not need it on the trail but, for the spatially challenged, it could be handy in urban situations. We've all wished this tech on those who hold up traffic while they try to wedge their vehicle into a slot. Awkwardly. Tom Voelk gives it a try without looking at the owner's manual, because that would be cheating.
2026 Jeep Cherokee Overland
"I've done a full review of the all-new 6th generation Jeep Cherokee, the top trim overland. It's strictly a hybrid now with 210 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive."
This is a brand-new version of Jeep's popular mid-sized family SUV. It runs on a mix of gas and electricity (a hybrid) and this specific 'Overland' version is the fancy, high-end model.
The sixth-generation Jeep Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that transitioned to an all-hybrid powertrain lineup. The Overland trim represents the luxury-oriented version of this family hauler, featuring standard all-wheel drive and premium interior appointments.
Toyota RAV4
"This is a hybrid and the fuel economy is pretty good, but not as lofty as the Toyota RAV4."
A very popular, reliable compact SUV made by Toyota that is famous for getting great gas mileage, especially the hybrid version.
The Toyota RAV4 is a highly popular compact crossover SUV known for its exceptional fuel efficiency, particularly in its hybrid and plug-in hybrid (Prime) variants. It serves as the industry benchmark for reliability and economy in its segment.
Stellantis
"And then there's the Stalantis reputation for reliability. Not exactly top of the heap."
A massive global car company that owns many famous brands, including Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed in 2021 by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and the French PSA Group. It owns a massive portfolio of brands including Jeep, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati.
ParkSense
"Press and hold the active park sense button for the entire maneuver."
An automatic parking system in Jeep vehicles that can steer and park the car into a spot by itself while the driver holds down a button.
ParkSense is Jeep's proprietary active parking assist system. It uses ultrasonic sensors and cameras to identify suitable parallel or perpendicular parking spaces and automatically steers, brakes, and shifts the vehicle into the spot.
wheel rash
"These systems are great for avoiding wheel rash. I'm impressed with how close this comes to the curb."
Scratches and scrapes on a car's metal wheels caused by accidentally rubbing them against a concrete curb while parking.
Also known as curb rash, this refers to the cosmetic damage, scratches, or gouges caused when a car's wheel scrapes against a concrete curb, typically during parking maneuvers.
Subaru Trailseeker
"...f these systems are this good. I tried the Subaru Trailseekers Tech or Toyota Beezie Woodland, if you prefer. It..."
This is a misheard name for the Subaru Solterra, which is a fully electric SUV made by Subaru. It is a quiet, battery-powered family car designed to handle light off-roading and bad weather. It was created as a joint project with Toyota, which sells a nearly identical version.
This is a transcription error for the Subaru Solterra, the brand's first all-electric SUV developed in partnership with Toyota. It shares its platform, electric drivetrain, and onboard technology with the Toyota bZ4X while retaining Subaru's signature focus on off-road capability. It is typically discussed in comparisons of electric vehicle platforms and all-wheel-drive systems.
Toyota bZ4X
"I tried the Subaru Trailseekers Tech or Toyota Beezie Woodland, if you prefer."
Toyota's first all-electric SUV, which was designed in partnership with Subaru.
The Toyota bZ4X is Toyota's first fully electric SUV, co-developed with Subaru. It features a modern, tech-forward cabin but has faced criticism for slower DC fast-charging speeds compared to rivals.
Subaru Solterra
"I tried the Subaru Trailseekers Tech or Toyota Beezie Woodland, if you prefer."
Subaru's first fully electric SUV, which is almost identical to the Toyota bZ4X under the skin.
The Subaru Solterra is Subaru's first all-electric SUV, built on a platform shared with the Toyota bZ4X. It features standard dual-motor all-wheel drive and Subaru's signature off-road assist systems.
Tom Voelk
"That's Driven. I'm Tom Bult."
A well-known car reviewer who hosts the 'Driven Car Reviews' show, famous for his high-quality videos and straightforward reviews.
Tom Voelk is an award-winning automotive journalist, video producer, and host of 'Driven Car Reviews'. He is known for his detailed, high-production-value reviews and was previously a contributor to The New York Times.
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