On July 16, 2026, Stellantis officially announced that remote engine start and stop via the mobile app has been added to the standard 10-year Connect One plan for most 2027 model year Jeep vehicles in the United States. Remote engine start/stop via the mobile app is included at no extra charge in the standard 10-year Connect One plan on most eligible 2027 vehicles, after enrollment. For buyers who were paying for remote start separately or doing without it entirely, this is a real change worth understanding before deciding between a 2026 and 2027 model.
Here's exactly what Stellantis confirmed, what it costs, and how to think through the buy-now-vs-wait decision for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
What Stellantis Officially Announced?
Per Stellantis's July 16, 2026 press release published on jeep.com, remote engine start/stop via the brand mobile app has been added to the standard Connect One plan for most 2027 model year Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo brand vehicles.
Connect One provides 10 years of connected features at no extra cost, buyers simply need to enroll. For 2027 model year vehicles, the standard Connect One plan includes:
Remote engine start/stop via the mobile app
Remote lock/unlock via the app
Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
Monthly vehicle health reports
Vehicle health and recall alerts
Service scheduling
Automatic SOS calls
Remotely clear personal data
In-vehicle games via the App Market
This is what changes for 2027. Prior to the 2027 model year, remote start via the app was not included in the standard Connect One plan and required the Connect Wi-Fi Plus subscription for most vehicles.
Important exception confirmed by Stellantis: The 2027 Jeep Compass and Dodge Durango use the SiriusXM Guardian platform rather than standard Connect One, and receive a different package, 10 years of Safety and Security and Vehicle Performance services with a three-month trial of Assistance and Navigation packages. The remote start structure for Compass and Durango is different from the standard Connect One announcement.
What the Optional Connect Wi-Fi Plus Plan Costs for 2027
For buyers who want additional connected features beyond the standard Connect One plan, Stellantis reduced the Connect Wi-Fi Plus subscription to $15.99 per month for 2027, a $2 per month reduction from the previous price. Buyers who enroll within 30 days of vehicle purchase receive a free three-month trial.
Connect Wi-Fi Plus adds:
Unlimited Wi-Fi data for up to eight devices via the vehicle-mounted hotspot
Remote honk horn and flashing lights
Stolen vehicle assistance, vehicle theft alarm alert, and vehicle finder
Connected navigation including drive alerts, routing send and go, last mile navigation, fuel finder, parking finder, dynamic range mapping, and speed camera alert
How Does This Affect the Buy Now vs. Wait Decision?
The Connect One change is one connectivity update for 2027, but the Grand Cherokee also receives significant lineup, powertrain and technology changes.
If remote start via the app is a feature you genuinely want
The 2027 model year is when it becomes standard at no extra cost on Connect One. For properly equipped 2026 Grand Cherokee models using the earlier plan structure, app-based remote operation was generally part of Connect Wi-Fi Plus. Stellantis says the 2027 package price was reduced by $2 to $15.99 per month. Over a 10-year ownership period, that adds up to approximately $2,158 in subscription costs, or $1,079 over five years.
If remote start is not a priority for you
Remote start is only one difference between the model years. The 2027 Grand Cherokee also receives powertrain, trim and technology updates, so buyers should compare the complete 2026 and 2027 specifications. A 2026 model at a potentially lower transaction price may represent better overall value for buyers for whom connectivity features are secondary.
On 2027 model year timing
Stellantis announced the Connect One update on July 16, 2026, which means 2027 models are already appearing in Sansone CDJR inventory. Sansone currently lists 2027 Ram 1500 units, including vehicles in stock/in transit, and a 2027 Grand Cherokee Limited being built. However, exact US on-sale dates and pricing for 2027 Grand Cherokee configurations have not been published by Stellantis at the time of this writing. Buyers interested in a 2027 model should confirm availability and pricing directly with the dealership.
On 2026 inventory and pricing
With 2027 models arriving, 2026 Grand Cherokee may be available with manufacturer incentives. The practical question is whether the remote start subscription cost over your expected ownership period is larger or smaller than any discount achievable on a 2026 model. That calculation depends on transaction prices at the time of purchase, which vary.
Check Current Inventory at Sansone Chrysler Jeep Dodge
Check the latest Grand Cherokee inventory at Sansone CDJR in Woodbridge, NJ to see current 2026 configurations in stock alongside any arriving 2027 models. Our team can verify Connect One enrollment details, pricing and any incentives that may be available for both model years prior to your arrival.
FAQs
Is remote start now free on 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Yes, per Stellantis's official July 16, 2026 announcement, remote engine start/stop via the mobile app is now included in the standard 10-year Connect One plan for most 2027 Jeep vehicles at no extra charge. Buyers must enroll in Connect One to activate the feature.
Did 2026 Grand Cherokee models include remote start for free?
No. On 2026 models, remote start via the app required the Connect Wi-Fi Plus subscription, a separate paid plan. This is the key change for 2027.
How much does Connect Wi-Fi Plus cost for 2027?
$15.99 per month, reduced from $17.99 for previous model years. Get a 3-month free trial when you sign up within 30 days of purchase.
Does the 2027 Jeep Compass get the same Connect One remote start?
No. Per Stellantis's official announcement, the 2027 Jeep Compass uses the SiriusXM Guardian platform and receives a different connected services package, not the standard Connect One remote start update.
Does Sansone CDJR have 2027 Grand Cherokee models listed?
Sansone CDJR currently lists 2027 Grand Cherokee inventory, with availability subject to change. Check the live inventory or contact the dealership before visiting.
