Jeep Grand Cherokee 2026: 324 hp from a 4-cylinder turbo

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee trades its traditional V6 for a new Hurricane 4 Turbo engine: 2.0 liters, 324 horsepower, and 332 lb-ft of torque. This turbocharged four-cylinder progressively replaces the Pentastar V6 across multiple trims, marking a technological pivot for the American SUV. The 4xe plug-in hybrid variant disappears from the lineup, streamlining the range.

"324 horsepower from a 2.0 turbo—that's more than some V8s had a decade ago." — Stellantis Engineer

A Hurricane 4 that packs a punch

The big change for this 2026 model year is the arrival of the Hurricane 4 Turbo engine. This powerplant delivers 324 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque—more than the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 it replaces, which produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. The new four-cylinder now powers the Laredo Altitude, Limited, and Summit trims, while base Laredo and Laredo X models keep the V6.

This engine shares only three characteristics with its six-cylinder Hurricane cousin: bore, stroke, and name. Everything else was engineered specifically for this block, including the oil filter, which differs from other Jeep four-cylinders. The engine runs on regular gasoline and can tow up to 6,200 pounds.

Performance that surprises

On paper, the numbers impress. With 35 psi of boost pressure, this small-displacement engine delivers more power than many V8s of yesteryear. Early road testers were pleasantly caught off guard by the performance, though some noted slight turbo lag and more noticeable vibration than the V6 would produce.

The transmission remains an eight-speed automatic that sends power to either the rear wheels or all four depending on configuration. The 2026 Grand Cherokee maintains its proven off-road credentials, with multiple driving modes tailored to challenging terrain.

When will it arrive?

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee is already available at U.S. dealerships as of February 2026. First deliveries began with a starting price around $40,000 for the two-wheel-drive Laredo. Top-tier Summit versions can exceed $60,000.

Farewell to the 4xe plug-in hybrid

Jeep has made the decision to drop the 4xe plug-in hybrid from the 2026 lineup. This technology—combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged V6 with two electric motors for 375 total horsepower—suffered from persistent reliability issues. The brand prefers to focus on conventional powertrains while awaiting new electrified models.

This lineup simplification comes with a trim restructuring. Jeep announces three main levels: Laredo, Limited, and Summit, though variants like the Laredo X and Limited Reserve add some complexity to the offer.

Subtle aesthetic refinements

Visually, changes are restrained. The grille has been lightly reworked, and the cabin benefits from a new 12.3-inch touchscreen at the center of the dashboard, replacing the old 10.1-inch setup. Materials and overall finish improve, particularly on higher trims.

The exterior preserves the familiar Grand Cherokee lines, with a few new colors and fresh wheel designs depending on trim. The approach remains conservative—Jeep prioritizes stylistic continuity on this flagship model.

Up against the competition

With 324 horsepower, the Grand Cherokee sits favorably against direct rivals. The Ford Explorer ST brings 400 horsepower but with a thirstier bi-turbo V6, while the Chevrolet Traverse settles for 310 horsepower from its naturally aspirated V6.

On the premium European SUV side, the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE also offer turbocharged four-cylinders in their entry lineups, though with higher refinement standards.