Jeep plans to slot Stellantis's new Hurricane inline-six engine into the Grand Cherokee starting in 2028, according to reporting from Car and Driver. The move represents a mid-cycle refresh strategy that adds power and capability without requiring a full redesign of the fourth-generation Grand Cherokee, which launched for 2022.
The Hurricane inline-six delivers more output than both the current 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 and the turbocharged 2.0-liter Hurricane four-cylinder currently available in the Grand Cherokee lineup. Jeep hasn't announced final specifications for the six-cylinder Hurricane variant, but the engine family already exists in various forms across Stellantis brands. The 3.0-liter Hurricane six-cylinder produces 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque in other applications, positioning it as a meaningful step up from the Pentastar's 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet.
Towing capacity represents the key selling point for buyers in the segment. The Grand Cherokee currently tops out at 6,200 pounds with the Pentastar V-6. Adding the Hurricane six would increase that capability considerably, directly competing with rivals like the Ford Explorer Limited (up to 5,600 pounds) and the Toyota 4Runner (up to 5,000 pounds on most trims). Dodge Ram 1500 buyers who cross-shop three-row SUVs expect towing numbers in the 8,000 to 12,000-pound range, creating real pressure for Jeep to boost Grand Cherokee capability.
The timing suggests Jeep follows Stellantis's broader electrification roadmap while also extracting maximum value from existing platforms. The Grand Cherokee platform remains fundamentally sound after its 2022 redesign, and adding a larger, more powerful engine option costs less than a ground-up redesign. Mid-cycle refreshes typically include interior updates, new trim packages, and revised exterior styling, making 2028 a logical moment for the three-row SUV to receive its visual and mechanical updates.
This also aligns with Stellantis's strategy of offering multiple powertrain options through the decade. The four-cylinder Hurricane continues serving cost-conscious buyers seeking fuel efficiency, while the V-6 Pentastar serves the base market. The new inline-six targets buyers prioritizing performance and hauling capability without waiting for hybrid or electric variants that will arrive later in the product cycle.
The Hurricane inline-six signals Jeep's confidence in the Grand Cherokee's market position. The SUV consistently ranks among America's best-selling three-row vehicles, competing directly with the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Mazda CX-9. Adding horsepower and towing capacity addresses the one area where the Grand Cherokee lags some Japanese competitors in raw capability metrics.
Jeep hasn't confirmed a 2028 debut date, but Stellantis typically previews major changes six months to a year before launch. Expect official announcements in 2027. The change will require no major powertrain bay modifications, as the Hurricane inline-six fits within existing engine compartment parameters across Stellantis's midsize SUV platform.