Jeep Cherokee vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, offering both single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with two battery size options. The larger battery, which was standard on the Limited trim, provided enhanced power, performance, and range, albeit at a higher cost. Prices ranged from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The total MSRP, including options like Heavy Metal paint and various mats, was $40,468. The 2026 bZ's design improvements, such as body-color trim, were well-received, although some colors retained the black overfender trim. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, with a 14-inch center touchscreen and integrated climate controls. However, the digital driver display's placement and size remained a concern.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee, compared to its predecessor, adopted a less polarizing, boxy design reminiscent of the classic XJ Cherokee. Despite its rugged appearance, it risked blending in with other crossovers. The rear design was more successful, combining an XJ-like profile with modern aerodynamic elements. The Cherokee shared the Stellantis STLA Large platform with other models, offering consistent appearance across its base, Laredo, Limited, and Overland trims. The Overland trim featured 20-inch wheels, while others had 18-inch wheels. Interior materials included cloth for lower trims and leatherette for higher trims, with recycled materials used for environmental reasons. The dashboard design exceeded expectations, avoiding smudge-prone finishes and incorporating a rotary shifter reminiscent of the Grand Wagoneer.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of powertrain options. The XLE FWD model with a 57.7-kWh battery delivered 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, achieving an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles with an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. Upgrading to the 74.7-kWh battery increased horsepower to 224 and extended the range to 314 miles, though the Limited trim's range dropped to 299 miles with slightly reduced efficiency. Dual-motor AWD models, equipped with the 74.7-kWh battery, produced 338 horsepower and offered ranges of 288 miles for the XLE AWD and 278 miles for the Limited. The bZ supported fast charging, compatible with Tesla Superchargers, and offered efficient home charging options. In real-world tests, the XLE Plus exceeded EPA efficiency estimates, though it lacked one-pedal driving capability. The bZ excelled in urban environments but struggled with highway passing power and handling on winding roads.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee's powertrain consisted of a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system, producing 210 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. The standard AWD system featured a clutch-based rear-axle disconnect for improved fuel economy but lacked the off-road capabilities of traditional 4WD systems. Jeep's Selec-Terrain drive modes and favorable approach and departure angles enhanced its versatility, though ground clearance was slightly less than some competitors. The hybrid system delivered smooth transitions between gasoline and electric power, and the Cherokee offered a quiet and comfortable ride. However, steering response was less precise, and regenerative braking was limited. The Cherokee's performance was more suited to comfort than sporty driving.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on a skateboard-style EV platform, offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making entry and exit easy. Both front seats featured standard height adjustment, with eight-way power adjustment available in XLE and Limited trims. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated seats in the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage options. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed generous legroom, though foot space was limited. Cargo space measured 27.7 cubic feet, or 25.8 cubic feet in the Limited trim, with a maximum of 56.9 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee provided comparable headroom and legroom to competitors, though forward visibility was slightly hindered by the dashboard design. Power-adjustable seats were available in higher trims, with heated front seats standard in the Laredo trim. Rear-seat headroom was competitive, but legroom was less than some rivals. Cargo space measured 33.6 cubic feet, expanding to 68.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The Cherokee's towing capacity of 3,500 pounds was impressive. The dashboard design balanced analog controls with touch sensors, though some buttons were hard to locate.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver display's placement and size were problematic, while the infotainment system lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The voice assistant performed well, though the lack of a tuning knob was noted.

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

The 2026 Toyota bZ included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, featuring high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, lane-centering assist, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist added subtle braking and steering inputs. Additional features included blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The Limited trim offered Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park Assist. IIHS ratings were mixed, with Good ratings for front-crash avoidance but Poor ratings for headlights.

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee offered 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, with a surround-view camera system available. Crash test ratings were not available at the time of writing.