The Jeep Grand Cherokee requires a Hemi… or a Hurricane. For 2026, it receives the latter, but it isn’t the 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six we’re familiar with. Instead, it features a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating 324 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, with 35 pounds of boost. Such numbers would excite anyone for a new hot hatch, but this is a large SUV intended to transport families and tow boats. Before taking it for a spin, my question was: Will it perform as expected?
Nearly everything else about the Grand Cherokee remains unchanged from last year, aside from a selection of new colors. This meant my only task in driving the 2026 model was to assess the Hurricane 4 engine. I took it for a short drive through the rain-soaked Santa Monica Mountains in SoCal to gauge its performance, and I can confirm that it’s precisely what I anticipated: A bit peculiar, remarkably quick, and somewhat laggy.
While the Laredo and Laredo X versions still utilize the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, the turbo 2.0-liter engine is standard on the Laredo Altitude and higher. The vehicle I tested was a luxurious Summit model priced above $60,000. I must confess that it feels odd stepping into a premium full-size SUV knowing that the four-cylinder is the top choice, even though the power is impressive.
However, there’s good news if you opt for the most expensive model merely to keep up appearances: Most people aren’t aware of what lies beneath their car’s hood, let alone yours. All the non-Jeep enthusiasts at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu simply noticed a shiny SUV rolling on 21s. I can almost assure you they never thought, “Wow, that doesn’t even have a V8.”
I departed from the classy gathering with the gas pedal firmly pressed to the floor. The Grand Cherokee responded to my request with more speed than a 5.7-liter Hemi could aim to reach, but without the familiar growl. Instead, this engine produces a more droning hum. This isn’t a criticism of the engineers who labored on this power source; most 2.0-liter engines sound similar, and hardly any of them sound pleasing. Those are just the facts.
I’ve gone through the press materials and listened to that morning’s presentation regarding the Hurricane 4 achieving 90% of its peak torque from 2,600 rpm. Still, I found myself waiting for the boost to kick in before swiftly accelerating away. Some of that lag is masked by the Grand Cherokee’s approximately 5,000-pound curb weight, but genuinely, it just softened the punch that typically accompanies boost hitting hard at higher RPMs. It definitely doesn’t feel diesel-like; then again, neither does the six-cylinder it shares bore and stroke dimensions with.
What alleviated that issue was switching the Jeep’s eight-speed transmission into manual mode. Many automatics nowadays kick you out of manual mode after a certain period without shifting, but this one remains in the selected gear. That’s a bonus for towing, and also for an energetic drive. Do Grand Cherokee owners engage in spirited driving? I’m uncertain, but I certainly did, and I got so carried away while enjoying the Macintosh sound system that I didn’t realize the engine was revved to 5,000 rpm. For what it’s worth, it redlines at 6,500 rpm, so I still had some headroom.
I believe anyone driving this Jeep normally will be more than satisfied with the Hurricane 4 engine. It’s not as if you’ll struggle to keep pace with traffic or even surpass them when necessary. I only wish I could have towed with it, but for that, you’ll need to wait for my colleague Joel’s review.
And if you’re concerned about reliability, I understand. Jeep isn’t synonymous with that trait like Toyota is (or, arguably, used to be). My confidence wasn’t exactly bolstered when they raved about its Turbulent Jet Ignition system being inspired by the Maserati Nettuno V6. But the Hurricane 4’s chief engineer, Ashish Dubey, assures that they considered durability, even as they pushed the boundaries of specific output.
Dubey elaborated, explaining they learned from the high-output Hurricane inline-six and applied those insights to the Hurricane 4, given its extraordinary power density. “On Hurricane 6 H.O., they feature a stiffer crankshaft, larger main bearings, and larger rod bearings. We implemented all those findings on Hurricane 4,” he stated.
In case that doesn’t alleviate your anxiety, you can also delve into our engineering detailed analysis on the engine here.
Ultimately, we can only wait to see how it performs in the long run. I suspect it’s just a matter of time before this engine is featured in other Stellantis products, particularly the Jeep Wrangler. (That 4×4 currently has a turbo 2.0-liter option, but it’s a completely different design from the Hurricane 4.) I would argue it makes even more sense in the new Cherokee, and Mike Cockell, director of small Jeep vehicles at Stellantis, mentioned that the vehicle might not remain hybrid-only indefinitely.
If I were spending my own funds, I’d likely bypass a Grand Cherokee with the Hurricane 4—not due to its poor performance, but because it’s a high-strung unit in a hefty vehicle. I would prefer something less stressed instead. Fortunately for new car buyers who share the same sentiment, the Hemi seems to be making a comeback in the lineup.
Jeep provided The Drive with travel and accommodations, along with the use of a vehicle for the purpose of writing this review.
| 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Hurricane 4 specifications | |
|---|---|
| Base Price on Laredo Altitude (Summit as tested) | $45,850 ($62,190 as tested) |
| Powertrain | 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder | eight-speed automatic | four-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 324 @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 332 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Curb Weight | 4,784 pounds |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 19 mpg city | 26 highway | 22 combined |
| Rating | 7/10 |
Quick Overview
It’s a significant improvement over the V6 in terms of power, and most buyers won’t mind that it’s a four-cylinder, but you might.
**2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Initial Driving Review: Assessing the Performance of the Four-Cylinder Engine**
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee has made an impact with a significant change in its engine offerings, introducing a four-cylinder engine option that aims to merge efficiency with the rugged performance anticipated from the brand. This review explores the first driving experience of the Grand Cherokee outfitted with this new engine, evaluating its performance, handling, and overall driving experience.
**Engine Details and Performance**
The 2026 Grand Cherokee’s four-cylinder engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter unit, delivering approximately 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine is coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifts and dynamic acceleration. Throughout our initial drive, the Grand Cherokee exhibited a noteworthy balance between power and efficiency, making it ideal for both urban driving and off-road excursions.
Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph happens in roughly 6.5 seconds, which is competitive for a midsize SUV. The turbocharged nature of the engine guarantees that power delivery is immediate, allowing for confident merging onto highways and overtaking slower vehicles. The engine’s torque is especially advantageous in off-road situations, supplying the necessary power to navigate challenging terrains.
**Fuel Efficiency**
One of the remarkable aspects of the four-cylinder engine is its fuel efficiency. The Grand Cherokee is rated at around 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, positioning it as a more economical alternative compared to its V6 and V8 competitors. This efficiency is a crucial selling point for buyers seeking a versatile SUV that maintains performance while being mindful of fuel expenses.
**Driving Dynamics and Handling**
The driving dynamics of the 2026 Grand Cherokee benefit from its well-calibrated suspension system, which finds a balance between comfort and sportiness. The four-cylinder version feels nimble and responsive, with minimal body roll during cornering. The steering is precise, instilling confidence whether navigating tight urban streets or winding country roads.
Off-road capabilities remain a key feature of the Grand Cherokee, and the four-cylinder engine doesn’t fall short. Equipped with Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II 4WD system, the vehicle excels in various terrains, from rocky trails to muddy paths. The engine’s torque facilitates effective climbing over obstacles, while the vehicle’s ground clearance and approach angles enhance its off-road capabilities.
**Interior Comfort and Technology**
Inside, the 2026 Grand Cherokee continues to impress with a roomy and well-appointed cabin. Premium materials and a contemporary design create a comfortable atmosphere for both drivers and passengers. The infotainment system showcases a large touchscreen with user-friendly controls, accommodating both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety features abound, with advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, making the Grand Cherokee a comprehensive choice for families and adventurers alike.
**Conclusion**
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the four-cylinder engine delivers a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, and off-road capability. While some traditionalists may still favor the conventional V6 or V8 options, the four-cylinder model demonstrates that it can compete in a dynamic market. With its impressive fuel economy, agile handling, and robust features, the 2026 Grand Cherokee is set to attract a new generation of buyers searching for a versatile and competent SUV.