2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of trim levels tailored to different powertrains, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ stood out with its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. The exterior design retained the large spindle grille and sharp bi-LED headlights, while the rear featured LED lighting and a small roof spoiler. Inside, the TX provided ambient lighting and suede trim, but the material quality fell short of luxury standards. The redesigned door handles were a unique touch, though some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its handsome SUV appearance with subtle updates to the headlights, grille, and lower front fascia. The thin grille and headlights gave it a wide-track look, complemented by traditional Jeep design elements like trapezoidal wheel arches. The lineup was streamlined to three core trim levels: Laredo, Limited, and Summit, each with distinct wheel options. The interior, while slightly plain, offered smarter materials and more equipment at higher trims. The Grand Cherokee's design emphasized its rugged identity without relying on excessive cladding or grilles.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a base model with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower. The 550h+ plug-in hybrid, however, delivered 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours. The TX offered various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The 550h+ provided a smooth ride with seamless transitions between gas and electric power, and its AWD system offered versatile power distribution.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee introduced the Hurricane 4 Turbo engine, delivering 324 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. This engine was standard in all trims except the base Laredo and Laredo X, which retained the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 with 293 horsepower. Both engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions and offered RWD or optional 4WD. The Hurricane engine provided impressive power across a broad rpm range, making the Grand Cherokee feel quick and capable. The driving experience remained truck-like, but the suspension was well-tuned for comfort.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features like multi-zone climate control and heated and cooled front seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. However, folding the second row flat was a bit complicated. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX boasted excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. All TX models could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided two-row and three-row configurations. The two-row model offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, while the three-row Grand Cherokee L had 17.2 cubic feet with all seats in place. The interior featured competitive headroom but sub-par legroom in the third row. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were available on higher trims. The Grand Cherokee's storage options included a deep center console bin, though the rotary shifter and drive-mode selector were not especially practical.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch color touchscreen with quick responsiveness, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labeled, leading to confusion. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX offered a clear back-up camera with an available bird’s-eye view and Advanced Park system. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, device connectivity was well-supported.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen on higher trims, while lower trims had a 10.2-inch screen. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system provided wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Off-Road Pages display was a useful feature for off-road enthusiasts. The Grand Cherokee also offered a surround-view camera system with night vision and a low-angle off-road camera. A digital rearview mirror and Fam Cam were available on higher trims.

The 2026 Lexus TX came standard with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and traffic sign recognition. The adaptive cruise control worked well, though it was initially confusing to set up. The TX 350 and 500h earned five-star ratings from NHTSA, while the TX received mixed scores from IIHS.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee included standard driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Active Drive Assist was available on higher trims, offering hands-free highway driving. The 2025 model received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but updated ratings for 2026 were not yet available.