2026 Jeep Update

Upcoming Changes

The Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to evolve as it rolls into 2026 with a polished look. Recently, spy shots have surfaced of the updated models, the Grand Cherokee and its larger sibling, the Grand Cherokee L, both showing off their refreshed exterior while undergoing some testing runs. The changes aren’t radical but certainly give a fresh touch to the familiar face.

New Front-End Design

The most noticeable changes are upfront, where the Grand Cherokee now flaunts a more squared-off grille reminiscent of what has been seen on the Recon EV. Even though the headlights are carried over, the surrounding trims have had a bit of a makeover, and the bumper is redesigned with a mid-mounted intake plus a smaller lower opening. The fog lights have been repositioned too, making room for a central sensor. There are these boxy air intakes, although mostly enclosed for aerodynamic efficiency.

Interior Updates

On the inside, there’s not much deviation from the past, with that luxury vibe staying intact. The significant change is a wider, possibly more intuitive infotainment screen replacing the old one. This comes at the cost of physical controls, as most buttons have transitioned to digital. However, some things like volume knobs and a few other controls remain to provide tactile feedback. The new display also seems to incorporate virtual buttons for front seat heating.

Powertrain Speculations

Jeep hasn’t been forthcoming about the powertrain details yet. The outgoing models saw the departure of the beloved 5.7-liter Hemi V8, and there’s speculation on whether the current 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 might follow suit, potentially giving way to a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The Grand Cherokee 4xe, a popular plug-in hybrid variant, is expected to continue and might come with an improved electric-only range, beyond its current 26 miles per charge.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel of the Grand Cherokee, this SUV’s driving dynamics strike a harmonious balance between comfort and off-road capability. It’s called a Grand Cherokee for a reason—it can tackle a rugged trail just as smoothly as it cruises a highway. Compared to other SUVs like the Ford Explorer or the Toyota 4Runner, the Jeep feels more robust, still maintaining refinement. The handling is agreeable, and while it may not be the sportiest, it delivers a reliable performance that fits its adventure-ready image.