The Refreshed 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee L – More Power, More Screen, Same Grand Ambition

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a nameplate synonymous with a blend of rugged capability and upscale refinement. The current generation, which debuted a few years ago, was already a massive step forward, particularly with the introduction of the extended three-row Grand Cherokee L. For the 2026 model year, Jeep has delivered a substantial mid-cycle refresh that focuses on more power, more sophisticated technology, and subtle but effective design tweaks, ensuring the Grand Cherokee L remains a powerhouse contender in the fiercely competitive three-row SUV segment.

 

A Hurricane Under the Hood: New Power for the L

The most significant update for 2026 is the introduction of a new engine option that fundamentally changes the driving character of the Grand Cherokee L. The tried-and-true 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 remains the base engine (293 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque) for the entry-level trims. However, the true story is the new Hurricane 4 Turbo engine, a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that becomes standard on Laredo Altitude trims and higher.

This new engine is a revelation. It delivers a stout 324 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, a substantial increase over the V6. This is a crucial addition for the Grand Cherokee L, whose extended length and added weight benefit immensely from the turbo-four's low-end torque. The immediate throttle response and stronger acceleration make the L feel more agile and effortless, especially when merging onto a highway or carrying a full complement of seven passengers. Jeep estimates this new powertrain can achieve a best-in-class driving range of up to 529 miles and maintain the impressive 6,200-pound maximum towing capacity (with the proper equipment).

For the efficiency-minded, the 4xe plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system carries over, pairing a different 2.0-liter turbo-four with electric motors for a formidable 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It offers an all-electric driving range (estimated to be around 26 miles) and makes the 4xe the quickest option in the lineup.

Family First: The Grand Cherokee L Experience

The L in Grand Cherokee L signifies its extended body, offering three rows of seating and room for up to seven. This focus on family and cargo hauling is where the L model shines. The elongated wheelbase translates into Best-in-Class second-row legroom, making long journeys comfortable for teenagers and adults alike. Access to the third row is manageable, and while best suited for children, the three-row configuration significantly enhances the SUV's versatility.

Cargo capacity is highly flexible. With the available power-folding third-row bench seat and 60/40 split second-row, the Grand Cherokee L transforms from a people-hauler to a massive cargo vessel, boasting 46.9 cubic feet of space with the third row folded and a maximum of 84.6 cubic feet with all rear seats down. New for 2026, Laredo Altitude models and above add third-row USB chargers, a small but appreciated convenience for rear passengers.

Tech-Forward Cabin Refresh

Jeep has made significant strides in modernizing the cabin's technology. The centerpiece is the new, larger 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 NAV touchscreen, which is now standard on most trims. This system is bright, responsive, and intuitive, integrating wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly. The update also brings a slight rework of the dashboard design to accommodate the larger screen, though thankfully, some crucial physical controls for audio and climate remain, striking a good balance between digital modernity and tactile functionality.

The Grand Cherokee L continues to offer a host of advanced features that cement its premium feel:

• Available 10.25-inch Passenger Interactive Touchscreen Display

• Class-Exclusive Available Interior FamCAM™ for monitoring the rear rows.

• Optional Rear Seat Entertainment with Amazon Fire TV.

• Premium McIntosh Audio System (19 speakers/950 watts) on Summit trims.

On the safety front, the 2026 Laredo Altitude and above trims receive new standard features like traffic sign recognition and intersection collision assist, enhancing the already comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Higher trims offer the Active Driving Assist System, a semi-autonomous Level 2 feature that provides hands-on assistance for a more relaxed highway commute.

Design and Trim Simplification

The exterior receives a subtle but effective facelift, including a refreshed front fascia, a streamlined seven-slot grille, and new headlamps, giving the Grand Cherokee L a slightly more sophisticated and contemporary look. New colors like Steel Blue and Copper Shino freshen up the palette.

Jeep has also simplified the core trim lineup for the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L to Laredo, Limited, and Summit, with various Altitude and Reserve packages. This is designed to streamline the buying process, but even with the simplification, the available features list can still be dizzying. The Summit and Summit Reserve models remain the pinnacle of luxury, offering Palermo leather, a suede headliner, and massaging front seats, blurring the line between mainstream and luxury SUVs.

Capability Remains Uncompromised

As expected from a Jeep, the Grand Cherokee L’s capability remains a core strength. It offers three distinct Quadra-Trac 4x4 systems. The air suspension available on higher trims provides a plush highway ride while also allowing for increased ground clearance for off-road excursions. The Selec-Terrain Traction Management System is now included on more accessible trims, offering drivers selectable modes (Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, Mud/Sand) to optimize performance for various conditions. While the longer wheelbase of the L makes it less ideal for extreme rock-crawling than its two-row sibling, its inherent capability far surpasses the typical three-row crossover.

Final Verdict

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee L refresh is a decisive move. It addresses the main area where the previous model was lagging engine performance with the potent new Hurricane 4 Turbo. Combined with a significant technological upgrade in the cabin and the continued versatility of its three-row configuration, the Grand Cherokee L stands out as a luxurious, powerful, and genuinely capable family SUV. It continues to successfully occupy the unique space between mainstream and true luxury, offering a blend of features and off-road chops few rivals can match. For buyers who need three rows and refuse to compromise on either premium feel or adventurous spirit, the 2026 Grand Cherokee L is a compelling, and frankly, grand choice.