Jeep's Next Rugged SUV: A Closer Look at the Cherokee Trailhawk
Jeep teases the upcoming Cherokee Trailhawk with a more aggressive front bumper and raised ride height.
Key Takeaways
- Jeep teases the Cherokee Trailhawk with a more aggressive front bumper
- Raised ride height, skid plates, and bigger tires expected
- Powertrain remains a mystery, with possible upgrade
- Jeep Active Drive I 4x4 system or Jeep Active Drive Lock 4x4 system possible
- More information to be shared by Jeep later
What Makes the Cherokee Trailhawk Stand Out?
In my experience, the Cherokee Trailhawk is a significant offering for Jeep, as it showcases the brand’s off-road capabilities. The teaser image reveals a more aggressive front bumper with a red tow hook, which suggests a more rugged design.
The Cherokee Trailhawk is expected to have a raised ride height, skid plates, and bigger tires, which will enhance its off-road performance. These features are similar to those found on the Cherokee Upland, which was previewed at the Easter Jeep Safari.
Design and Features
The Cherokee Trailhawk’s design is expected to be more aggressive than the standard Cherokee, with a redesigned front bumper and a red tow hook. The headlight appears to be unchanged, but the front looks more aggressive overall.
The Cherokee Upland, which was previewed at the Easter Jeep Safari, had an upgraded suspension, a tweaked face, and 18-inch wheels wrapped in 31.5-inch Falken Wildpeak A/T rubber. It is likely that the Cherokee Trailhawk will have similar features.
Powertrain and Performance
The powertrain of the Cherokee Trailhawk remains a mystery, and it is unclear whether Jeep will upgrade it. The current Cherokee is only available with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid paired with a continuously variable transmission.
This powertrain produces 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque and comes with the Jeep Active Drive I 4x4 system. However, the last Cherokee Trailhawk used Jeep Active Drive Lock 4x4, which the 2026 Compass Trailhawk continues to use.
Specifications
| Model | Engine | Transmission | 4x4 System |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Cherokee | Turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid | Continuously variable transmission | Jeep Active Drive I 4x4 |
| 2026 Compass Trailhawk | Turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid | Continuously variable transmission | Jeep Active Drive Lock 4x4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cherokee Trailhawk?
A: The Cherokee Trailhawk is a rugged off-road version of the Jeep Cherokee.
What features can we expect on the Cherokee Trailhawk?
A: The Cherokee Trailhawk is expected to have a raised ride height, skid plates, and bigger tires, as well as a more aggressive front bumper and a red tow hook.
When will more information be available about the Cherokee Trailhawk?
A: Jeep says it will share more information about the Cherokee Trailhawk later.
