2027 Jeep CherokeeMotorTrend - MotorTrend (MotorTrend - MotorTrend)Modern yet recognizable designHybrid AWD powertrain standardAppealing infotainment and safety techClear enough differentiation from rivals?Unproven off-road capabilityPricey starting pointThe Jeep Cherokee just got what could be its most radical reinvention ever for the 2026 model year. Equipped with hybrid AWD across the entire model range, the Cherokee is more efficient than ever, but its off-road capability has never been this deemphasized. Fitting more generically into the highly competitive compact SUV segment than ever, the Cherokee's rivals include the Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester.What's NewJeep just introduced the sixth-generation Cherokee for the 2026 model year, so we aren't expecting a radical reinvention for 2027. Minor updates, likely cosmetic or refining the Cherokee's trim structure, are anticipated.AdvertisementAdvertisementThis page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.What We ThinkJeep discontinued the last Cherokee after 2023 and waited until the 2026 model year to introduce a successor. The new model didn't impress us right out of the gate when it competed in our 2026 SUV of the Year contest in preproduction guise. The rebooted Cherokee looked the part, was designed with a spacious interior, and supplied a comfortable ride. However, it was underpowered and unimpressive off-road.We revisited the sixth-generation Cherokee in final-production form, and it was evident Jeep massively improved its compact SUV. The powertrain now feels quicker, and the electric motor masks turbo lag. Passing power on the highway is in step with the competition, though the engine gets loud at full chat. Steering feel is nearly nonexistent, but ride quality and braking are both strong points. We've yet to test the production Cherokee off-road, though it doesn't appear Jeep has made any advancements in this area.Consider the Jeep Cherokee if its nicely appointed cabin, upscale design, and standard all-wheel-drive hybrid powertrain strike your fancy. Check out its rivals, which have made strides in catching up to Jeep's off-road capability, for even better efficiency and on-road poise.Top-Ranked Competitors:Nissan RogueToyota RAV4Subaru ForesterKia SportagePerformanceWhile past versions of the Jeep Cherokee received myriad engine options, the 2027 model is expected to return with just one powertrain. A 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine works with an electric motor to produce 210 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque. That setup is mated to a CVT and standard all-wheel drive in all instances of the Cherokee.AdvertisementAdvertisementIn our testing, the pre-production Jeep Cherokee needed 9.4 seconds to get from 0-60 mph, but we suspect the fully finished SUV will drop that time to an estimated 8.8 seconds.The gas-only Nissan Rogue takes 8.4 seconds to get from 0 to 60 mph with all-wheel drive. If acceleration is of utmost importance, the hybrid-only Toyota RAV4 needs just 7.0 seconds to get the job done.MPGs and RangeThe 2027 Jeep Cherokee is expected to be efficient, though rivals even better at sipping fuel exist. Every 2026 Jeep Cherokee is rated at 39/35 mpg city/highway and 507 miles of range.That's more efficient than the AWD-only Subaru Forester, which returns 35/34 mpg. However, the Subie can drive 581 miles on a single tank. AWD versions of Toyota RAV4 are more efficient than the Jeep Cherokee. The Toyota gets 41–45/35–39 mpg and 551–609 miles of range.Safety FeaturesThe 2027 Cherokee should come with a robust suite of active safety tech. All models are expected to receive the following standard features:AdvertisementAdvertisementFront and rear automatic emergency brakingFront, side, and rear cross-traffic alertRoad sign recognitionAutomatic high-beamsBlind-spot monitoringLane keep assistAdaptive cruise controlCargo Space and Interior RoomThe 2027 Jeep Cherokee will carry over with the same exterior dimensions as the prior model year, placing it squarely in between the compact and midsize SUV segments. However, its interior space is a better match for compact rivals.TechnologyInfotainmentJeep is expected to equip every 2027 Cherokee with a 10.3-inch digital driver's display and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. All models are anticipated to return with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Jeep should continue to equip the base model with dual USB-C ports up front.Sound SystemAs before, the lowest three trims should receive a six-speaker sound system. Higher trims should continue to receive a nine-speaker sound system from Alpine.Available UpgradesHigher-end models are offered with rear USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. We anticipate other optional tech upgrades will include a head-up display and a 360-degree camera.ValueStandard FeaturesThe base 2027 Jeep Cherokee gets a standard hybrid powertrain, all-wheel drive, and 18-inch wheels. Inside the cabin, there's cloth seating. Jeep equips a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Cherokee should continue to receive a strong suite of active safety tech, LED headlights, and LED DRLs. Pricing for the base model is expected to begin around $37,000.Recommended TrimUnless Jeep adds an off-road Trailhawk model to the lineup, the 2027 Cherokee should be back with four trims: base, Laredo, Limited, and Overland. Before options, pricing for the Overland is expected to swell to about $45,000, so the more modestly priced Limited model is a better deal. This model gets heated leatherette seating, a heated steering wheel, a wireless charging pad, a power liftgate, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The 2026 Jeep Cherokee Limited begins at approximately $42,000, making it a more recommendable choice.