2026 Jeep Cherokee vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee, with its new KM model, aimed to evoke nostalgia by adopting a boxy shape reminiscent of the classic XJ Cherokee from the 1980s and 1990s. However, in a market saturated with rugged-looking crossovers, the Cherokee's design came across as somewhat generic. The signature seven-slot grille, a hallmark of Jeep's identity, seemed to lack its usual authenticity. The rear design was more successful, blending an XJ-like profile with aerodynamic elements and distinctive taillights. The Cherokee's proportions were well-suited for a compact SUV, sharing the Stellantis STLA Large platform with other models like the Dodge Charger and Jeep Wagoneer S.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of packages tailored to different powertrains, with the TX 350 featuring the Luxury package and options for Ultra Luxury, Executive, and F Sport 3 packages. The TX 500h hybrid started with the F Sport Performance 2 package. The TX's design retained a large grille reminiscent of the older spindle grille shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights. The rear featured LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width, topped with a small roof spoiler. The interior offered three colour options and ambient lighting, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. Lexus redesigned the door handles, opting for pressure-reactive exteriors and push-to-open interiors, which some found unnecessary.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee featured a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system, delivering 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. Its AWD system, while basic by Jeep standards, included a clutch-based rear-axle disconnect system for improved fuel economy. The Cherokee's Selec-Terrain drive modes and best-in-class approach and departure angles enhanced its off-road capabilities. Despite some steering issues, the hybrid system impressed with smooth power transitions, and the vehicle offered a quiet ride.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 came with a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid boosted output to 366 hp. The gas model featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid used a six-speed automatic. The TX 350 had full-time AWD, while the TX 500h employed Lexus's Direct4 AWD system. Drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. The TX 500h offered adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee provided ample headroom and legroom for front-seat passengers, comparable to competitors like the Subaru Forester and Kia Sportage hybrids. However, rear-seat legroom was less generous than rivals. Cargo space was limited, with 951 litres behind the rear seats and 1,934 litres with seats folded. The Cherokee's towing capacity of 1,587 kilograms was impressive. The dashboard maintained important analog controls, though some buttons were hard to locate.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row with a recline function. The second row featured captain's chairs with a removable centre console. Cargo space was generous, with 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,747 litres with all seats folded. The TX could tow up to 2,268 kilograms. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support, and the centre console's dual-opening lid limited access.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, running the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on higher trims. The system was stable and upgradable via OTA updates. However, the digital instrument cluster's graphics were plain, and the native navigation system was laggy.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with quick response times, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled adaptive cruise control and volume but were multi-functional and unlabeled. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but connectivity issues arose. The TX offered a back-up camera with a bird’s-eye view and an Advanced Park system. Seven USB ports and wireless charging ensured devices stayed powered.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee included standard driver assistance features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Active Driving Assist and traffic sign recognition were standard on the Overland model. Crash test ratings were unavailable at the time of writing.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Adaptive cruise control worked well, though setup was confusing. The TX received five-star crash safety ratings from the NHTSA and "Good" scores from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap front crash test on the driver’s side.