Cars

Jeep's 2026 Cherokee: A Hybridized Return to Midsize Dominance

Jeep's strategy in the fiercely competitive SUV landscape takes a decisive turn with the unveiling of the 2026 Cherokee. After a brief absence, the midsize SUV returns, reimagined from the ground up, to address consumer demands for modern technology, increased efficiency, and ample space, while staying true to its rugged heritage.

The Legendary Cherokee Reborn: Bigger, Smarter, and Electrified

The Resurgence of a Midsize Icon: Addressing a Strategic Gap

After a three-year pause following the discontinuation of the previous model in February 2023, Jeep is re-entering the midsize SUV segment with the completely redesigned 2026 Cherokee. The decision to step away from this crucial market proved costly, leading to a noticeable decline in sales for the brand. Recognizing this missed opportunity, Jeep has committed to delivering a compelling successor that aligns with contemporary automotive expectations.

A Familiar Silhouette, Enhanced for the Future

The sixth-generation Cherokee maintains its iconic upright, boxy profile and the signature seven-slot grille, ensuring instant recognition as a Jeep. However, a closer inspection reveals significant modernizations. The grille is now seamlessly integrated with updated LED lighting, and the overall exterior design has been meticulously refined through extensive wind tunnel testing, enhancing both aesthetics and aerodynamic efficiency.

Revolutionary Platform: The STLA Large Architecture

A pivotal change for the 2026 Cherokee is its adoption of the innovative STLA Large platform from Stellantis. This highly adaptable "multi-energy" architecture is engineered to support a diverse range of vehicles, from electric models like the Jeep Wagoneer S to upcoming Alfa Romeo sedans. This strategic shift allows for greater flexibility in powertrain options and vehicle configurations, future-proofing the Cherokee lineup.

Expanded Dimensions and Enhanced Practicality

The new Cherokee boasts increased dimensions, being 4.7 inches longer, an inch wider, and two inches taller than its predecessor, with a wheelbase stretched by 6.4 inches. These expanded proportions translate directly into a more spacious cabin, offering significantly improved legroom for rear passengers. Furthermore, cargo capacity sees a substantial 30% increase, providing 33.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a generous 68 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Introducing Hybrid Power: Efficiency Meets Performance

Demonstrating its commitment to electrification, Jeep introduces a hybrid powertrain as the sole propulsion system for the 2026 Cherokee at launch. This system combines two electric motors with a 1.6-liter transverse-mounted inline-four gasoline engine. Powered by a 1.0-kWh lithium-ion battery, which recharges through regenerative braking, this setup delivers a combined 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. While specific acceleration figures are yet to be released, the vehicle is rated for a 3,500-pound towing capacity and is projected to achieve an impressive 37 mpg combined, with EPA estimates of 42 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Stellantis has hinted at future powertrain variants, leveraging the STLA Large platform's versatility to potentially include conventional gasoline engines, plug-in hybrids, or range-extended options.

Diverse Trims and Uncompromised Off-Road Prowess

Jeep aims to cater to a wide spectrum of buyers by offering various trim levels, including a base model, Laredo, Limited, and Overland packages, with a "Trail-Rated" version anticipated in the near future. Even the initial trims maintain Jeep's legendary off-road capabilities, boasting eight inches of ground clearance, best-in-class approach and departure angles (19.6 and 29.4 degrees, respectively), and an 18.8-degree breakover angle. All Cherokees will feature the Jeep Active Drive 4x4 system with a fuel-saving rear axle disconnect and a four-mode Selec-Terrain management system for optimizing performance across different terrains like mud, sand, and snow.

Cutting-Edge Technology for a Modern Driving Experience

The 2026 Cherokee integrates a host of advanced technological features, both standard and optional. Drivers will benefit from a 360-degree surround-view monitor and a front tire-to-curb view system, enhancing maneuverability and safety in diverse driving conditions. The cabin is equipped with a new 12.3-inch high-resolution infotainment display and a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. The infotainment system, powered by the latest Uconnect 5 operating system, includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Amazon Alexa voice assistant as an optional add-on. All models will support over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring software remains current and optimized. In total, the new Cherokee will offer over 140 standard and optional safety features, including the Active Drive Assist, a semi-autonomous system comparable to GM's Super Cruise and Ford's BlueCruise.

Anticipated Pricing and Market Debut

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee will debut with a starting price of $36,995 for the base model, $39,995 for the Laredo, $42,495 for the Limited, and $45,995 for the Overland trim, with an additional $1,995 for delivery fees across all packages. Production is slated to begin in the autumn, with the first vehicles expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms by late 2025. Initially, the Cherokee will be exclusively available in North America, with all units assembled at the Stellantis plant in Toluca, Mexico.

Unbeatable Deal: DeWalt Cordless Impact Wrench at Unprecedented Discount on Amazon

An extraordinary sales event on Amazon presents a golden opportunity for professionals and home mechanics to acquire a highly sought-after power tool. This limited-time promotion features a significant price reduction on a DeWalt cordless impact wrench, acclaimed for its exceptional performance and rugged construction. Reviews from satisfied users highlight its capability to effortlessly handle demanding tasks, reinforcing its reputation as a superior choice for various applications.

Exclusive Amazon Offer: DeWalt Cordless Impact Wrench at a Steal

As of August 21, 2025, a remarkable deal has surfaced on Amazon, offering the DeWalt 20V Max Cordless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench at an impressive 38% reduction from its original price, bringing it down to just $215. This formidable tool stands out in the market for its sheer power, delivering up to 1,030 foot-pounds of fastening torque and an astonishing 1,400 foot-pounds of breakaway torque, making quick work of stubborn fasteners like lug nuts and suspension bolts. Its innovative design includes four customizable speed settings, a precision variable speed trigger for enhanced control, and DeWalt's unique Precision Wrench control technology, which actively prevents overtightening. Furthermore, the tool incorporates BatteryGuard to extend battery life and an integrated LED light, ensuring clear visibility in dimly lit environments. The wrench's ergonomic grip and resilient casing guarantee longevity, providing years of dependable service. It is important to note that the battery required for operation is sold separately.

This current offer provides a compelling reason to invest in a high-quality cordless impact wrench. From a consumer perspective, such substantial discounts on leading brands are rare and signify a prime moment to upgrade or equip one's workshop with a reliable, high-performance tool. The glowing testimonials from current owners, who commend its strength, ease of use, and overall durability, underscore the immense value this DeWalt impact wrench offers. It's more than just a tool; it's an investment in efficiency, precision, and the sheer satisfaction of tackling challenging automotive or household repairs with confidence.

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Lexus Leads Automotive Customer Satisfaction, While EVs Lag Behind

A recent comprehensive study by the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) for 2025 has brought to light notable changes in the automotive industry's consumer satisfaction landscape. While overall satisfaction has seen a slight dip, certain brands have defied this trend, showcasing significant improvements, while others have struggled to maintain their standing. This extensive survey, compiled from nearly 10,000 responses, also offers intriguing insights into consumer preferences across different powertrain types: gasoline, hybrid, and electric vehicles.

Among the luxury segment, Lexus has emerged as the clear frontrunner, achieving an impressive 87-point score, marking a substantial 6% increase. This surge is largely attributed to the success of its hybrid offerings, including popular models like the RX, ES, and NX, which have resonated strongly with consumers. In the mass-market category, Subaru has surpassed Toyota, reaching 85 points, demonstrating its enduring appeal based on its reputation for safety and reliability, bolstered by new models such as the redesigned Forester and an enhanced Crosstrek. Hyundai also celebrated a 3% gain, hitting 80 points, indicating that a focus on value and quality continues to yield positive results.

Conversely, some prominent brands faced a more challenging period. BMW recorded the most significant decline among luxury manufacturers, dropping 5% to a score of 75. Audi also saw a 4% decrease to 77, and Tesla, once a leader, slipped to 81. In the mass-market sector, Stellantis brands—Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram—all experienced drops in their satisfaction ratings, falling behind competitors like Subaru and Mazda. This underscores the importance of consistently meeting evolving customer expectations, as past brand loyalty alone is insufficient to sustain high satisfaction levels.

A critical finding from the ACSI study revolves around powertrain preferences. Hybrid vehicles notably lead in customer satisfaction, with both mass-market and luxury buyers rating them highly (80 for mass-market, 83 for luxury). Traditional gasoline-powered cars also performed well (80 for both segments). Electric vehicles, however, trailed significantly, scoring 68 among mass-market brands and 78 for luxury brands. The primary concerns cited by EV owners include range anxiety and uncertainties regarding resale value. Hybrids, by contrast, appear to strike an optimal balance, providing the benefits of both traditional and electric propulsion without the associated drawbacks, making them the preferred choice for many American drivers, particularly those opting for Lexus models.

The 2025 ACSI Automobile Study reinforces the dynamic nature of consumer preferences in the automotive sector. It highlights that while established reputations are valuable, continuous innovation and responsiveness to consumer needs, especially in the evolving landscape of vehicle powertrains, are paramount for maintaining and enhancing customer satisfaction. The ascendance of brands like Lexus and Subaru, coupled with the challenges faced by BMW and the mixed reception of electric vehicles, paints a clear picture of what drives consumer happiness in today's car market.

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