Jeep Grand Cherokee 2026: New Hurricane 4, 324 horsepower

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets a mid-life update that highlights a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine called the Hurricane 4, rated at 324 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. It adds a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, a 3D-pattern seven-slot grille, and aerodynamic tweaks to the front fascia for improved cooling. The lineup is simplified around the Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, and Summit trims, while the Grand Cherokee L (long wheelbase, three-row) continues to be sold.

Notable changes in version 2026

2.0L Hurricane 4 turbocharged engine, 324 horsepower; 332 lb-ft (≈ 450 Nm) of torque.
The entertainment screen now has a maximum of 12.3 inches (previously the largest was 10.1 inches).
3D seven-slot grille, “hockey stick” daytime running lights, front bumper for optimal cooling.
Trailhawk 4xe changes tow hooks and hood decal to red.
The lineup revolves around Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Summit; the Altitude/Reserve package adds equipment.

Hurricane 4: 2.0 l turbocharged, power-dense

As many manufacturers move from V6s to turbocharged four-cylinders, Jeep adds the Hurricane 4 to the Grand Cherokee without dropping the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. The new engine features an aluminum alloy block, DOHC construction, forged components, and a variable-geometry turbo. Its 324 horsepower puts it near the top of the segment's non-electrified four-cylinder options.

Torque is available at 3,000–4,500 rpm, with Jeep claiming 80 percent of it is available as early as 2,300 rpm. Notably, these numbers are on 87-octane regular gas. All power is routed through the familiar eight-speed automatic, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds.

The secret to efficient combustion lies in the Turbulent Jet Ignition technology, which was first seen in the Maserati MC20's 621-horsepower Nettuno V6: a small pre-combustion chamber on each cylinder burns some of the fuel, which is then injected into the main combustion chamber, resulting in cleaner, more efficient combustion. Jeep hasn't released fuel economy figures yet; they'll be updated when they become available.

In terms of production, the Hurricane 4 is assembled at the plant in Dundee, Michigan; the Pentastar V6 and four-cylinder 4xe powertrain come from Mexico and Italy, respectively.

Refining the design for cooling

Jeep hasn’t radically changed its appearance, but the details are intentional. The seven-slot grille now creates a distinct sculptural effect, the LED positioning lights are designed in a “hockey stick” style, and the layout of the lower front bumper has been optimized to increase airflow to cool the engine compartment. On the Trailhawk 4xe, the two front rescue hooks and the hood decal are red, creating a unique identity.

2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe — front three quarter view of white suv with black roof, amber daytime running lights, and red tow hooks in studio setting.

Cabin and technology: 12.3-inch screen, high-end equipment

The upgrade brings a 12.3-inch entertainment screen instead of the previous maximum 10.1-inch configuration, for a more spacious and modern display experience. In the high-end Summit Reserve configuration, the Grand Cherokee is equipped with Palermo leather, oak wood paneling and a 19-speaker McIntosh sound system, aimed at customers who value convenience.

The Laredo Altitude comes standard with the Hurricane 4 engine and a 12.3-inch display. Those who need three rows of seating can opt for the long-wheelbase Grand Cherokee L, which shares the same features and options as the non-hybrid five-passenger.

New trim levels, packages and paint colors

The 2026 Grand Cherokee lineup is simplified with four main trims: Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, and Summit. The Altitude or Reserve packages unlock additional amenities. Additionally, three new colors are available: Steel Blue, Fathom Blue, and Copper Shino.

Jeep hasn't announced pricing yet; information will be available before the 2026 Grand Cherokee arrives at dealerships in the coming months.

Quick Specs Table (as originally published)

Category	Information
Engine options	Pentastar V6 3.6 l; Hurricane 4 2.0 l turbocharged; 4xe plug-in hybrid (four-cylinder)
Hurricane 4 Power	324 horsepower
Hurricane 4 Torque	332 lb-ft (≈ 450 Nm), 3,000–4,500 rpm; 80% at 2,300 rpm
Gear	8-speed automatic
Maximum traction	6,200 pounds (≈ 2,812 kg)
Center screen	Up to 12.3 inches
Version	Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Summit; Grand Cherokee L (3-row) continues
Notable equipment	Summit Reserve: Palermo leather, oak wood trim, 19-speaker McIntosh audio
Engine assembly site	Hurricane 4: Dundee, Michigan; V6: Mexico; 4xe: Italy
New paint color	Steel Blue; Fathom Blue; Copper Shino

Conclude

With the Hurricane 4, the 2026 Grand Cherokee joins the trend of high-output turbocharged four-cylinders, while retaining the Pentastar V6 and 4xe powertrain options to meet a variety of needs. Updates to the front-end cooling, 12.3-inch display interface, and streamlined equipment configurations show that Jeep prioritizes efficiency and practicality. Pricing and detailed performance specifications (including consumption) will be the missing pieces of the puzzle when the car officially goes on sale.