2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2026 Mazda CX-90
Choosing between the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2026 Mazda CX-90 means comparing 2 SUVs with very different strengths. Mazda CX-90 focuses on premium 3-row family comfort, standard AWD, and smooth inline-6 power, while Grand Cherokee brings a refreshed design, available 2-row or 3-row Grand Cherokee L layouts, strong towing capability, and more trail-ready confidence. Both models offer upscale cabins, modern displays, and available electrified powertrains, but their personalities are not the same.
Design & Style
Refreshed styling gives the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee a stronger visual presence, with a revised front fascia, updated grille, redesigned LED headlamps, and a cleaner cabin layout built around a new 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 NAV touchscreen. Shoppers can choose the 2-row Grand Cherokee for a more personal midsize SUV feel or the 3-row Grand Cherokee L for seating up to 7. Interior highlights include available heated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging, a front passenger interactive screen, available Interior FamCAM, and Summit-level McIntosh audio with 19 speakers, a 17-channel amplifier, 950 watts, and a 10-inch subwoofer.
Mazda CX-90 takes a more sleek and premium approach, with a longer 201.6-inch body, a 122.8-inch wheelbase, and seating for 7 or 8 depending on the second-row setup. Cargo space reaches up to 74.2 cu ft with the second and third rows folded on models with the 3-person third-row bench. Its design feels elegant and road-focused, while the Grand Cherokee feels more rugged, upright, and versatile for buyers who want everyday comfort with added capability.
Technology & Safety
Modern tech is a major part of the 2026 Grand Cherokee update. Its new 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 NAV screen gives the cabin a more advanced center stack, while available features such as a 10.25-inch front passenger display, wireless charging, navigation, SiriusXM trial, and premium audio create a high-end experience. Safety features include Active Lane Management, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path Detection, Rear Park Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking, and available Hands-Free Active Driving Assist.
Mazda CX-90 also offers an impressive technology package, especially on higher trims with an available 12.3-inch full-color center display, available 12.3-inch digital meter display, Mazda Online Navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and standard Alexa voice command technology for 2026. Safety features include Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane-keep Assist, and other driver-assistance systems. Mazda’s setup feels polished and premium, but Grand Cherokee stands out with its available passenger screen, off-road-focused systems, and family-friendly camera technology.
Performance
Powertrain variety gives the 2026 Grand Cherokee a strong advantage for shoppers who care about capability. Available engines include the 3.6L Pentastar V6 with about 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, plus the new 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo with about 324 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. Jeep states the Hurricane 4 Turbo can deliver about 23 mpg combined, up to 529 miles of driving range, and towing up to 6,200 lb when properly equipped. Grand Cherokee 4xe models continue with plug-in hybrid strength, offering around 375 hp, 470 lb-ft of torque, about 25 miles of electric-only range, and up to 6,000 lb of towing.
Mazda CX-90 delivers strong on-road performance with a 3.3L turbocharged inline-6 rated up to 280 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, while Turbo S models produce up to 340 hp and 369 lb-ft when using recommended premium fuel. Its PHEV pairs a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor and 17.8 kWh battery for 323 hp, 369 lb-ft, and about 27 miles of EV range. Gas CX-90 models can tow up to 5,000 lb, while PHEV models tow up to 3,500 lb. Mazda feels smooth and athletic, but Grand Cherokee offers the stronger maximum towing figure and a broader capability profile.
The Bottom Line
Both SUVs make sense for different priorities. Mazda CX-90 is a smart pick for shoppers who want a refined 3-row SUV with standard AWD, premium styling, efficient mild-hybrid performance, and an available plug-in hybrid option. Its cabin design, inline-6 power, and available 8-passenger layout make it a strong family SUV for daily driving.
Grand Cherokee is the more flexible choice for shoppers who want stronger capability, available 2-row or 3-row configurations, higher towing potential, advanced 4x4 hardware, and a cabin that balances comfort with adventure-ready features. Available Selec-Terrain modes, Quadra-Lift air suspension, Quadra-Trac I, and Quadra-Drive II with rear electronic limited-slip differential give it a wider range of confidence beyond paved roads. For drivers who want comfort, technology, and capability in one SUV, Grand Cherokee has the stronger all-around appeal.
Schedule a Test Drive Today
Ready to experience the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee in person? We invite you to contact Manahawkin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to schedule a test drive and explore the trims, features, powertrains, and available 4x4 systems that match your needs. Our team can walk you through Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L options, explain available towing and technology features, and help you compare configurations with confidence.
Located at 188 NJ-72 in Manahawkin, NJ, we serve shoppers across the Jersey Shore area with new Jeep vehicles, used inventory, financing support, certified service, Mopar parts, express service lanes, and online shopping tools. Visit us to see how the Grand Cherokee fits your daily drive, weekend plans, and family needs.
FAQS
Is the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-90?
Mazda CX-90 is longer overall and built as a dedicated 3-row SUV. Grand Cherokee offers a 2-row model, while Grand Cherokee L adds 3-row seating for families needing more passenger space.
Which SUV has more towing capability?
Properly equipped 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee models can tow up to 6,200 lb with the Hurricane 4 Turbo. Mazda CX-90 gas models tow up to 5,000 lb, while CX-90 PHEV models tow up to 3,500 lb.
Does the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee offer better off-road capability?
Grand Cherokee has the stronger off-road focus with available Selec-Terrain modes, Quadra-Lift air suspension, Quadra-Trac systems, and Quadra-Drive II. Mazda CX-90 includes standard AWD but is more road-focused.