Jeep Cherokee is Back With Hybrid Power for 2026
About this episode
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee is making a comeback with a hybrid powertrain that promises 37 mpg and over 500 miles of range. Built on the versatile Stella platform, it features a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with electric motors, delivering 210 horsepower. The new design is more rugged and spacious, boasting a 30% increase in cargo capacity. Inside, it offers modern amenities like Uconnect 5 and a range of safety features. Pricing starts at $37,000, with fancier models available by late 2025.
It's been a few years since Cherokee cast a shadow in Jeep showrooms. Coming in late 2025, the 6th generation rights that wrong. Powered by a turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid making 210 horsepower, it should average 37 miles on a gallon of gas. Bigger and roomier (30% more cargo room for starters) it gets a square-jawed design for those that loved the original look. Tom Voelk previews the 2026 Cherokee that looks to take on RAV4, CR-V, Tucson, and Sportage.
Jeep Cherokee
"...line for the end of 2025. First up, the new 2026 Cherokee. Let's get to it. Welcome to my preview of the 2..."
The Jeep Cherokee is a type of vehicle called an SUV, which is designed to be good for both driving on regular roads and off-road adventures. It's known for being tough and able to handle rough terrain, and the new version coming out in 2026 will likely have some exciting new features. People talk about it because it's a popular choice for those who want a versatile car.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that has been a staple in the Jeep lineup since its introduction in 1974. Known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design, the Cherokee has evolved over the years to include modern technology and comfort features, making it a popular choice for both adventure seekers and families. The mention of the new 2026 Cherokee indicates an upcoming model that may showcase updated features and design elements.
hybrid
"...but it is all new and the big news is it's a hybrid and should average about 37 miles per gallon according to the EPA..."
A hybrid car uses both gas and electricity to run. This helps it save fuel and produce less pollution than cars that only use gas.
A hybrid vehicle uses two or more types of power, typically a gasoline engine combined with an electric motor. This combination allows for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional gasoline-only vehicles.
turbocharged
"...it's a 400-volt system with a new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder plus two elective motors..."
Turbocharged means the engine has a special device that helps it produce more power without being bigger. This makes the car faster and more efficient with fuel.
Turbocharging is a technology that uses a turbine to force more air into the engine, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power without increasing the engine size. This results in better performance and efficiency.
horsepower
"...total output is 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque to move 4,400 pounds of vehicle."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster and perform better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, specifically how much work an engine can do over time. In vehicles, higher horsepower typically means better acceleration and performance.
torque
"...total output is 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque to move 4,400 pounds of vehicle."
Torque is a measure of how much twisting force an engine has. It's important for how quickly a car can start moving and how well it can pull heavy things.
Torque measures the twisting force an engine produces, which is crucial for acceleration and the ability to move heavy loads. It is often more important than horsepower for off-road and towing capabilities.
4x4 system
"...the Jeep ActiveDrive 1 4x4 system with rear axle disconnect is standard."
A 4x4 system means that all four wheels of the car can get power from the engine. This helps the car grip the road better, especially on rough or slippery surfaces.
A 4x4 system, or four-wheel drive, allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously. This enhances traction and control, especially in off-road conditions or slippery surfaces.
traction management
"Select terrain traction management gets four driving modes."
Traction management is a system that helps the car keep its grip on the road. It makes sure the wheels don’t spin out, especially when driving on slippery or rough surfaces.
Traction management refers to systems that help control the amount of power sent to the wheels to prevent slipping and maintain grip on various surfaces. This is particularly useful in off-road driving or in adverse weather conditions.
ECVT
"...the transmission is an ECVT. If you're a car nerd like me you'll want to know that this is built on the Stella large platform..."
ECVT is a type of transmission that changes gears smoothly without the usual steps of a regular transmission. It helps the car run more efficiently.
ECVT stands for Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission. It allows for a smooth and efficient power delivery by varying the gear ratio seamlessly without traditional shifting.
Stella large platform
"...this is built on the Stella large platform which is very versatile. It can accommodate a lot of different powertrains..."
The Stella large platform is like a base that car makers use to build different types of vehicles. It can fit different engines and designs, making it flexible for various models.
The Stella large platform is a versatile vehicle architecture that can support various powertrains and body styles, allowing manufacturers to create different models based on the same underlying structure.
cargo room
"...the engineers are especially proud of the cargo room. It grows significantly by some 30 percent..."
Cargo room is the space inside a car where you can put your stuff, like bags or equipment. More cargo room means you can carry more things.
Cargo room refers to the amount of space available in a vehicle for storing items. An increase in cargo room means more capacity for luggage, groceries, or other belongings.
surround view camera system
"...options include a dual pane sunroof, kicked to open tailgate, surround view camera system..."
A surround view camera system gives you a bird's-eye view of your car's surroundings using cameras all around the vehicle. It helps you see what's around you when parking.
A surround view camera system uses multiple cameras placed around the vehicle to provide a 360-degree view of the surroundings, aiding in parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
Uconnect 5
"...The user interface is Uconnect 5 with over-the-air updates..."
Uconnect 5 is a technology system in some cars that helps you connect your phone, use navigation, and control music. It can update itself without needing to go to a shop.
Uconnect 5 is the latest version of Chrysler's infotainment system, featuring over-the-air updates, improved graphics, and enhanced connectivity options for users.
Hofmeister kink
"...there is a little bit for lack of a better term, Hofmeister kink in the decolor..."
The Hofmeister kink is a small design detail on some cars that makes the back window area look unique. It's named after a famous car designer and is often found on BMWs.
The Hofmeister kink is a design feature in automotive styling, characterized by a distinctive curve in the C-pillar of a vehicle, often seen in BMW models.
Volkswagen Golf
"...this looks like a taller version of the old Volkswagen Golf Alltrack that my new neighbor has, just more rugged looking..."
The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is a version of the Golf that is built to handle rougher roads and weather. It has a higher stance and special features for better traction.
The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is a rugged variant of the Golf, designed for light off-road use with increased ground clearance and all-wheel drive capabilities.
active driving assist
"...though active driving assist is standard. So there you go..."
Active driving assist is a technology that helps you drive by keeping the car in its lane and adjusting speed automatically. It makes driving safer and easier.
Active driving assist is a safety feature that helps drivers maintain control of the vehicle by providing steering assistance, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping capabilities. It enhances safety by reducing the risk of collisions.
destination fees
"...all that pricing information includes destination because you can't get a vehicle without it..."
Destination fees are extra costs added to the price of a car to pay for getting it to the dealership. You usually have to pay this fee when buying a car.
Destination fees are charges that cover the cost of transporting a vehicle from the manufacturer to the dealership. These fees are typically included in the vehicle's total price and are necessary for the purchase process.
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