Jeep Cherokee vs 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 iconic 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. Across its trim levels, from base to Overland, the Cherokee maintained a consistent appearance, with the Overland featuring larger 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Cherokee offered a mix of cloth and leatherette upholstery, with recycled materials used in the interior. The dashboard design was praised for its style, avoiding smudge-prone finishes and incorporating a rotary shifter reminiscent of the Grand Wagoneer.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of trim levels, with the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid each providing distinct options. The 550h+ stood out with its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. Most models featured 20-inch wheels, while the 550h+ boasted 22-inch wheels. The TX retained a large grille, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. Roof rails added practicality for additional storage. Inside, the TX provided a choice of interior colors, with the PHEV offering a unique dark brown option. Ambient lighting and suede trim enhanced the cabin's ambiance, though some materials fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles offered a novel approach, but some might have preferred more attention to cabin details. Overall, the TX's design and features catered to those seeking a blend of style and functionality.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee's performance specs initially seemed uncharacteristic for a Jeep. It featured a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system, delivering 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. This positioned it between the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 hybrids in terms of power. The standard all-wheel drive system, while basic by Jeep standards, offered a clutch-based rear-axle disconnect system for improved fuel economy. Jeep's Selec-Terrain drive modes and impressive approach and departure angles contributed to its off-road capabilities, though the planned off-roading test was hindered by weather conditions. The hybrid system was praised for its smooth power transitions, and the Cherokee provided a quiet and comfortable ride. However, the steering lacked precision, requiring adjustments through the touchscreen. Regenerative braking was also limited, with a "low mode" offering some improvement.

The 2026 Lexus TX, particularly the plug-in hybrid model, delivered impressive performance with its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system generating 404 horsepower. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours. The TX offered versatile drive options, including electric-only, hybrid, and gasoline-only modes, catering to various driving needs. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom allowed for further customization. The 550h+ provided a smooth and quiet ride, with a well-tuned suspension and firm brakes. The AWD system offered flexibility in power distribution, and a Trail Mode enhanced traction on slippery surfaces. Overall, the TX excelled in providing a comfortable and adaptable driving experience.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee offered competitive interior space, with headroom and legroom comparable to rivals like the Subaru Forester and Kia Sportage hybrids. However, forward visibility was slightly hindered by the deep dashboard and steeply raked windshield. The seats were comfortable, though wedged between a wide center console and door pockets. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed similar headroom, but competitors provided more legroom. Cargo space was limited, with 33.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 68.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Cherokee's towing capacity of 3,500 pounds was impressive, matching certain Toyota RAV4 Hybrid versions. The dashboard maintained important analog controls, though some buttons were hard to locate, and touch sensors for climate controls lacked feedback.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, accommodating full-sized adults comfortably. A one-touch button facilitated entry to the third row, though folding the second row flat was more complicated. The front seats were roomy but could benefit from more thigh support. The climate controls were mostly on the screen, with physical dials for temperature adjustments. The TX provided excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with the second row folded. All TX models could tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a practical choice for those needing ample cargo capacity.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee came equipped 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, along with USB-C ports for both front and rear rows. Wireless device charging was available on higher trims. The Uconnect 5 system was stable and upgradable via over-the-air updates, with 10 years of support. However, the digital instrument cluster's graphics were plain, and vehicle settings were split between the touchscreen and dashboard buttons, causing some confusion. The native navigation system was laggy compared to Android Auto, and the audio system showed little difference between trim levels.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch color touchscreen that was user-friendly and responsive. However, some features lacked polish, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were multi-functional and unlabeled, leading to confusion. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. A subscription was required for in-dash navigation and other features like a voice assistant and digital key. The back-up camera offered a clear view, and the available Advanced Park system handled parking duties. The TX provided ample USB ports and wireless charging, with an available 120-volt outlet for larger devices.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee offered standard driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. Active Driving Assist, combining automated lane centering with adaptive cruise control, was also standard. Traffic-sign recognition was included on the Overland model, and a surround-view camera system was available. Crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of writing.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with the Safety System+ 3.0 as standard, featuring forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane centering, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and Proactive Driving Assist. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though the steering wheel controls were confusing. The NHTSA had not released safety ratings for the 550h+, but the TX 350 and 500h received five-star ratings. The IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" score for the small overlap front crash test on the driver's side and a "Good" score for the passenger's side.