2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Returns for Off-Roading

Jeep has confirmed the return of the Trailhawk trim for the Grand Cherokee, with the off-road-ready model expected to rejoin the lineup later in 2026. The move marks a strategic reversal for the brand after it previously canceled its entire 2026 lineup of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which had included the Trailhawk version.

The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk was originally intended to be offered exclusively with the 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain for the 2026 model year. However, following the cancellation of the PHEV offerings, the trim was effectively removed from the production slate until the recent confirmation of its return.

Product Specifications and Market Positioning

While Jeep has not disclosed the exact launch date or specific powertrain details, industry analysts and reporting from Car and Driver suggest the returning Trailhawk will likely be positioned as a 2027 model. The vehicle will retain the brand’s Trail Rated badge, signaling its capability for rugged terrain.

Based on previous iterations and teaser imagery, the new Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is expected to feature several hardware upgrades over the standard models, including:

• Increased ground clearance
• Enhanced suspension articulation
• Knobbier, off-road-oriented tires
• Distinctive red front tow hooks
• A black hood designed to reduce glare during off-roading
• Red decals on the hood

The exact engine configuration remains unconfirmed. It is unclear if the Trailhawk will utilize the standard V-6, the optional turbocharged four-cylinder engine introduced with the 2026 facelift, or both. However, the plug-in hybrid powertrain is not expected to return.

Corporate Strategy and Sales Trends

The decision to revive the Trailhawk trim is driven in part by dealer demand. According to reporting from The Detroit News, dealers have requested more Trailhawk units because they typically sell well and command higher price points than standard trims.

This trend aligns with a broader industry shift where brands are increasingly offering specialized off-road trims featuring durable body cladding and high-performance tires to capture a specific consumer segment.

The Grand Cherokee currently serves as Jeep’s top-selling vehicle. In the first quarter of 2026, Jeep sold 53,000 units of the SUV, representing a 10% year-over-year increase in sales. The model is available in both two- and three-row seating configurations.

Broader Portfolio Developments

The return of the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is part of a wider effort to reinforce the off-road identity across the Cherokee family. Both the larger Grand Cherokee and the compact Cherokee SUV are expected to feature the Trailhawk trim later this year.

The compact Cherokee was re-launched as a 2026 model last year. To support the expansion of the off-road lineup, Jeep showcased a concept for an off-roading iteration of the all-new Cherokee at the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab in early April 2026.

These developments follow the 2026 refresh of the Grand Cherokee, which included a facelift and the introduction of a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine option.