Jeep Cherokee 2026 vs 2025: Full Comparison Guide
The car market is continuously witnessing a shift in customer preferences, especially with significant developments in the 4×4 sector and the rise of modern technology-equipped vehicles, particularly in the family and adventure SUV segments that combine luxury, reliability, and spaciousness. The Jeep Cherokee is one of the shining names that has cemented its place among the best SUVs for decades and continues to attract the attention of strong driving and practical reliability enthusiasts. With the launch of the completely new sixth generation of the Jeep Cherokee for 2026, questions arise about how the new generation compares to its predecessor for 2025, and what qualitative differences exist between them in terms of design, performance, technology, space, and prices. In this professional comparison, we take you on an analytical tour that clarifies all the critical aspects of making the right decision when considering purchasing the new generation Jeep Cherokee or retaining ownership of the previous generation.
Browse Jeep Cherokee offers in Saudi Arabia
Exterior Design
The exterior design is one of the most distinguishing aspects between the Jeep Cherokee 2026 and its predecessor, 2025, as Jeep has adopted a more streamlined and modern design language in the new model, blending bold lines with thoughtful details to enhance the vehicle’s character and street appeal. The front of the Cherokee 2026 features a wider grille with chrome accents and slim LED headlights that accentuate its futuristic look, while the previous generation is characterized by a more conservative style with traditional design elements such as larger headlights and a classic grille.
| Design Element | Jeep Cherokee 2026 | Jeep Cherokee 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Facade | Thin LED headlights, wider grille, and chrome accents | Larger headlights and traditional grille |
| Aerodynamics | Improved aerodynamics, reduced drag coefficient | Traditional design with higher drag coefficient |
| Wheels | 18–20 inches, modern designs | 17–20 inches, traditional pattern |
| Rear Lights | Thin design with a unified light strip | Separate traditional lights |
These improvements in aerodynamics and external appearance translate into reduced air resistance and, therefore, higher fuel efficiency, in addition to a modern look that competes strongly in the luxury SUV sector.
Dimensions
The changes in the Jeep Cherokee 2026 are not limited to shape alone, as they also include a significant increase in dimensions to meet the needs of families and long-trip enthusiasts. The increase is evident in both length and width, alongside the lengthening of the wheelbase compared to the previous generation, which positively impacts seating comfort and the size of the interior and storage space.
| Specification | Jeep Cherokee 2026 | Jeep Cherokee 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Length (mm) | 4,778 | Shorter by 119 mm |
| Width (mm) | 2,123 | Narrower by 25 mm |
| Height (mm) | 1,715 | Shorter by 50 mm |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,870 | Shorter by 163 mm |
Despite this increase in overall dimensions, some interior spaces such as rear legroom have seen a slight decrease in the new generation. This is a result of smarter space distribution, with a clear compensation in shoulder and hip width and improved storage areas.
Comparison of Interior Space and Storage
| Space | Cherokee 2026 | Cherokee 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Legroom (second row) | 977 mm | 1,023 mm |
| Shoulder Space | +64 mm from previous | Less |
| Hip Space | +132 mm from previous | Less |
| Storage Capacity (behind second row) | 952 liters | About 1,067 liters |
| Storage Capacity with Folded Seats | 1,934 liters | About 2,005 liters |
The wheelbase expansion reflects on the vehicle’s stability in corners, and passengers may notice increased comfort while sitting, especially during long travels, along with flexible storage for families or large loads.
Interior Luxury and Digital Technologies
The Jeep Cherokee 2026 excels in its class regarding interior details and level of comfort, with a complete redesign of materials, dashboard, and digital instrument display to provide a driving experience closer to luxury vehicles than to conventional daily-use cars.
- Cabin Materials: Use of high-quality leathers and metallic touches enhancing the luxurious feel inside the cabin.
- Instrument Display Design: A 10.25-inch digital instrument screen creating an interactive futuristic experience with the driver.
- Curved Central Dashboard: Modern, user-friendly design enhancing the vehicle’s elegance and experience.
- Front Seats: The Jeep Cherokee 2026 features heated and ventilated front seats with multiple electric adjustments, providing maximum comfort in all climates, making it suitable for the hot conditions in the Gulf region, while these features in the previous generation were limited to higher trims without ventilation.
- Interior Lighting: Multi-color ambient lighting creates a distinguished atmosphere inside the cabin, enhancing enjoyment during night journeys or long drives.
Comparison of Interior Digital Innovations and Equipment
| Element | Jeep Cherokee 2026 | Jeep Cherokee 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Central Screen | 12.3 inches (Uconnect 5) | 8.4 – 10.1 inches |
| Instrument Screen | Fully digital 10.25 inches | 10.25 inches (only higher trims) |
| Connectivity Systems | Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly | Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly |
| Front Seats | Heated and ventilated with comprehensive electrical adjustment | Heated only in selected trims |
| Interior Lighting | Smart multi-color ambient lighting | Limited traditional lighting |
| Interior Materials | Luxury leathers and advanced metallic touches | Good materials with classic design |
These features are not just luxuries but also enhance the quality of the digital interaction for the driver and passengers through a larger central screen operating on the latest Uconnect 5 system, with an entertainment system supporting the latest phone technologies, navigation, and wireless connectivity features.
Mechanical and Technical Transformation in Drive and Performance Systems
One of the biggest turning points in the Jeep Cherokee 2026 is the adoption of the modern STLA Large platform, which supports advanced hybrid systems, offering a smarter and more sustainable driving experience, alongside considerable horsepower and higher fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor with traditional engines.
- The new model relies entirely on a 1.6-liter turbo engine supported by two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery, achieving horsepower levels of 270–300 with expected better performance in acceleration and towing.
- The old engines 3.6-liter V6 and 2.0-liter turbo gasoline provide traditional power (293 hp for V6 and 270 hp for the turbo), but lack electric support or intelligent torque distribution control.
- The hybrid system leads to a fuel consumption reduction of up to 20–30% compared to the previous model, making the Cherokee 2026 a practical and economical choice in the long run, while also reducing emissions.
- The smart all-wheel drive platform with new driving modes enhances the vehicle’s capabilities to handle various terrains, whereas previous models were limited to conventional four-wheel drive.
Performance and Engine Comparison Table
| Performance Element | Cherokee 2026 (completely new) | Cherokee 2025 (previous generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | STLA Large (Hybrid) | Traditional (Gasoline Engines) |
| Main Engine | 1.6-liter turbo hybrid + two electric motors | 3.6-liter V6 gasoline / 2.0-liter turbo |
| Horsepower | 270–300 hp (cumulative) | 293 hp (V6) / 270 hp (2.0) |
| Torque | Higher thanks to battery support | 348 Nm |
| Fuel Efficiency | 15.7 km/l (improvement of 20–30%) | Relatively higher consumption |
| Drive Systems | Smart all-wheel drive + multiple driving modes | Conventional rear or all-wheel drive |
This pivotal development in hybrid systems places the Cherokee in advanced ranks with industry trends toward more environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles, especially in light of changing fuel circumstances in the Saudi and Gulf markets.
Prices
The price element is crucial in selecting the most suitable vehicle, especially within the mid to high-cost SUV category. It is surprising that the new generation of the Cherokee 2026 has seen a noticeable drop in prices – at least in the American market – compared to the previous generation, thanks to the new platform and the shift to hybrid technologies that are less costly in the long run.
| Model | Price in USD | Price in Saudi Riyals (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee 2026 | 36,995 | 138,800 |
| Jeep Cherokee 2025 | 55,076 | 206,675 |
This price differential is expected to enhance the appeal of the new generation over its competitors, especially considering the technological and design advancements, taking into account that final prices in the Saudi market depend on the availability of local dealers and special offers.
Choosing Between New and Used
The decision to acquire a new car or rely on a used car remains a choice determined by chronic user needs and personal preferences. With the significant shift in features of the Cherokee 2026 and declining prices, it now represents high value relative to specifications compared to the used 2025 generation, which may offer price flexibility but lacks the latest technological innovations, digital comfort, and more economical engines. The historical reliability of the Cherokee model encourages the selection of certified used models for budget-conscious buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent advantages of the hybrid STLA Large platform in the Cherokee 2026?
The STLA Large platform provides the Jeep Cherokee 2026 with advanced technical support for hybrid drive systems, reflecting an increase in efficiency and fuel savings of up to 30%, along with better dynamic performance and varied driving modes that enhance vehicle performance in all environments.
Does the Cherokee 2026 provide more space than the previous generation inside?
Despite a slight decrease in legroom in the second row, the Cherokee 2026 offers greater shoulder and hip space, along with generous storage spaces that make it more practical for family use and long adventures.
How do the new digital features affect the driving experience of the Cherokee 2026?
Digital features like the 10.25-inch instrument display and the 12.3-inch central screen support the latest communication systems, providing the driver with an advanced driving experience, with easier interaction interfaces and seamless integration with smartphones, enhancing both safety and comfort.
Does the shift to hybrid engines reduce the fun of driving or horsepower?
On the contrary, the hybrid engines of the Cherokee 2026 provide horsepower comparable to or exceeding that of the previous generation supported by traditional engines, with faster torque response and more efficient energy use, without compromising off-road performance or driving enjoyment.
What is the expected fuel consumption in the Cherokee 2026 compared to the previous model?
The Cherokee 2026 is capable of achieving fuel consumption of about 15.7 km/l, with improvements of up to 30% compared to its predecessor Cherokee 2025, which reduces operational costs and minimizes the need for frequent refueling.
Is the hybrid Cherokee suitable for desert environments and climatic challenges in Saudi Arabia?
The smart drive technologies and hybrid engines of the Cherokee have been tested in diverse conditions and are designed to handle high temperatures and desert terrains, with battery cooling systems ensuring continuous performance and safety.
Will the official prices of the Cherokee 2026 change when launched in Saudi Arabia?
The announced prices are based on the American market and may change based on local customs, taxes, and distribution agents’ margins, but the price appeal relative to equipment for 2026 is expected to remain.
What are the new seating and storage options in the Cherokee 2026?
The new generation provides front seats with heating and ventilation features, with storage capacity reaching 1,934 liters when the rear seats are fully folded, meeting the needs for commuting and travel for all family members.
Are modern safety features fully available in the new generation?
Yes, the sixth generation of the Cherokee supports an expanded suite of active safety technologies such as collision warning, intelligent speed control, lane-keeping assistance, and surround view cameras, providing safer and more reassuring driving.
Comprehensive Summary
When looking at the fine details in the comparison between the Jeep Cherokee 2026 and the previous generation of 2025, we find a radical transformation reflected in all aspects of the vehicle. The new generation embodies Jeep’s advanced philosophy with a modern hybrid platform that ensures much higher power and efficiency, a contemporary exterior and interior design that competes strongly in the advanced SUV market. The interior spaciousness and materials used have improved to become closer to luxury vehicles, and the digital equipment has become dominant, preparing a complete safe and comfortable driving experience.
On the prices front, the sixth generation has gained high appeal due to its lower initial price – according to the American market – compared to the previous generation, enhancing its value. The shift to hybrid engines does not only mean fuel economy but also entails better performance suitable for the Saudi environment in terms of climate and terrain. Meanwhile, the previous generation remains a viable option for those looking for a tried-and-tested model at a lower price for used cars. The final decision depends on user preferences between absolute modernity or the benefit of lower costs in older models.
If you are looking for an SUV that combines luxury, technology, performance, and efficiency, the all-new Jeep Cherokee 2026 is your best choice for the future, while the previous generation remains a practical option for traditional and reliable enthusiasts on any budget.
