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LOS ANGELES – Stellantis

is counting on the return of the Jeep Cherokee to help lead a U.S. turnaround for the SUV brand and embattled automaker.

The Cherokee returns after a three-year hiatus, rejoining the compact and midsize vehicle markets, which represent the largest segments in the U.S. It also marks Jeep’s first traditional hybrid model and its most fuel-efficient, gas-powered vehicle ever in the U.S.

“This is a critical vehicle for us,” Richard Cox, Jeep senior vice president of brand operations, told CNBC during a media event for the 2026 Cherokee. “I think this expands our reach with this level of powertrain, with this level of fuel efficiency and capability.”