2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Engine Power & Performance

The 2026 Jeep® Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L continue to define the midsize SUV segment, offering a versatile mix of refined highway comfort, modern technology, and unyielding 4×4 capability—whether you choose the standard two-row Grand Cherokee or the three-row Grand Cherokee L. If you’re planning daily commutes across town, preparing for weekend road trips, or need extra seating for the whole family, the latest Grand Cherokee lineup delivers advanced powertrains engineered to meet every driving demand. At Sam Leman CDJR of Champaign, we provide complete breakdown details of the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L engine specs, fuel economy ratings, and trailering capacities so you can choose the ideal configuration for your lifestyle.

Take a look at the performance highlights of the latest Grand Cherokee lineup to see how it can change the way you drive around Urbana, and check out our 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee interior guide to explore cabin features and technology.

2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee & Grand Cherokee L Engine Specs

For 2026, both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L offer the same two robust engine choices, each engineered with state-of-the-art Jeep technology to balance responsive power with daily efficiency. Both engine options pair with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission for seamless power delivery on or off the pavement, no matter which Grand Cherokee model you choose.

Standard 3.6L Pentastar® V6 Engine

Proven, smooth, and dependable, the standard 3.6L Pentastar® V6 features Electronic Stop/Start (ESS) technology to reduce fuel consumption during idle city driving. Standard on both the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L.

• Maximum Horsepower: Up to 293 hp
• Maximum Torque: Up to 260 lb-ft

Available 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo Engine

Highlights for 2026 include the available 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo engine. This turbocharged powertrain delivers increased horsepower and low-end torque for sports-car-like acceleration and capable towing power. Available on both the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L.

• Maximum Horsepower: Up to 324 hp
• Maximum Torque: Up to 332 lb-ft

2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee & Grand Cherokee L Gas Mileage

Not only is the latest Grand Cherokee lineup powerful, but it’s also engineered for efficient travel. Either engine option will help you preserve fuel in Decatur, while the 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo hits the ideal sweet spot for optimal highway fuel economy on the standard Grand Cherokee.

• EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Grand Cherokee): Up to 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway*
• EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Grand Cherokee L): Fuel economy runs slightly lower on the three-row Grand Cherokee L due to its larger size and added seating capacity. Ask our team for trim-specific EPA figures, or check the window sticker on any in-stock Grand Cherokee L.

2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee & Grand Cherokee L Towing Capacity

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L can both tow up to 6,200 pounds! The maximum towing capacity reaches 6,200 pounds on either model, regardless of which engine option you choose, when equipped with proper factory trailering gear.

• Maximum Towing Capacity: 6,200 pounds (Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L)
• Grand Cherokee Maximum Payload Capacity: Up to 1,280 pounds
• Grand Cherokee L Maximum Payload Capacity: Up to 1,370 pounds with the 3.6L V6, or up to 1,400 pounds with the 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo

Grand Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee L: Which One Fits Your Family?

Not sure which Grand Cherokee is right for you? The standard Grand Cherokee seats up to 5 passengers across two rows, ideal for couples, small families, or anyone who prioritizes agile handling. The Grand Cherokee L stretches the platform with a longer wheelbase to add a true third row, seating up to 7 passengers depending on your second-row configuration, without sacrificing the engine choices, 4×4 systems, or driver-assist technology available on the standard model. Whichever body style fits your lifestyle, browse our Grand Cherokee inventory to compare trims side by side.

Additional Driving Features of the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee & Grand Cherokee L

The power of the Jeep Grand Cherokee engine is truly something that has to be experienced in person. Beyond raw power, a suite of advanced 4×4 engineering and driver-assist technologies is shared across the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L to improve the way you traverse the roads of Mahomet:

• Three Advanced 4×4 Systems: Choose between Quadra-Trac I®, Quadra-Trac II®, or Quadra-Drive® II featuring a rear electronic limited-slip differential for maximum off-road traction.
• Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension System: Automatically adjusts vehicle height to maximize ground clearance over obstacles or lower the body for aerodynamic highway driving.
• Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System: Features selectable drive modes (Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, and Sand/Mud) to tailor traction performance to current surface conditions.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring: Tracks hard-to-see areas for safe, confident lane changes.
• Forward Collision Mitigation: Alerts you to hazards ahead and can automatically initiate emergency braking support if necessary.
• ParkSense® Parking Sensors: Simplifies tight parking maneuvers with intuitive proximity warnings.

Ready to get behind the wheel? Browse our live new Jeep Grand Cherokee inventory, including both two-row and three-row Grand Cherokee L models, or save time at the showroom when you apply for financing online prior to your visit. Schedule a test drive of the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Grand Cherokee L at Sam Leman CDJR of Champaign today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L?

The Grand Cherokee is a two-row SUV seating up to 5 passengers, while the Grand Cherokee L rides on a longer wheelbase with a third row, seating up to 7 passengers. Both models share the same 3.6L Pentastar® V6 and 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo engine choices, 4×4 systems, and driver-assist technology.

How much can the Grand Cherokee L tow?

Like the standard Grand Cherokee, the Grand Cherokee L can tow up to 6,200 pounds when properly equipped with factory trailering gear.

Does the Grand Cherokee L come with the same engines as the Grand Cherokee?

Yes. Both the standard 3.6L Pentastar® V6 (up to 293 hp) and the available 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo (up to 324 hp) are offered across the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L lineups.

Test-Drive the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Grand Cherokee L in Champaign!

Built to be driven anywhere, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L have everything you need to conquer whatever lies in front of you—with or without a third row. See which one of our Grand Cherokee models is the perfect fit for you, and don’t forget to ask about our current new vehicle specials when you visit us!