Following six consecutive years of declining sales, Stellantis NV (STLA.US) has officially launched a redesigned vehicle under its Jeep brand. The automotive group announced the new Jeep Cherokee on Thursday as part of its latest effort to revitalize market sales. This model marks the first time a Jeep vehicle features a hybrid powertrain and represents Stellantis's inaugural hybrid offering in the North American market.

The redesigned 2026 Cherokee aims to reimagine this iconic SUV that has been central to the brand's identity for decades. The model was previously discontinued in 2023 as part of cost-reduction initiatives implemented under former CEO Carlos Tavares.

The new vehicle introduces Stellantis's latest 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid system, delivering over 500 miles of driving range on a single tank of fuel. According to official specifications, the new Cherokee will feature a "technology-rich interior" and the new Connect One service package.

Compared to its predecessor, the new Cherokee has increased dimensions in length, height, and width, while optimized spatial design has enhanced cargo capacity by 30%.

"The 2026 Cherokee is a high-performing, highly competitive midsize SUV that will help us reclaim leadership in North America's largest market segment," stated Jeep Brand CEO Bob Broderdorf.

The vehicle carries a starting price of $36,995 (including $1,995 destination charge) and is expected to arrive at dealer showrooms between late this year and early next year. Production will take place at Stellantis's facility in Mexico.

This launch comes as the Jeep brand attempts to overcome years of sustained sales weakness. Against the backdrop of six years of consecutive sales declines, Stellantis also faces challenges from Trump administration tariff policies, with projected annual impact reaching 1.5 billion euros (approximately $1.74 billion).

Antonio Filosa, who assumed the CEO position this summer, indicated during a July analyst call that the group is actively communicating with the Trump administration. Previously leading the Jeep brand, Filosa has consistently focused on restoring market share through the Cherokee series revival.

When Stellantis released its first-half financial results in July, the company predicted gradual performance improvements in the coming months. In his July statement, Filosa emphasized: "My first weeks as CEO have only strengthened my conviction that we will turn things around leveraging Stellantis's core strengths, driven by our employees' creativity and energy, as well as the excellent new products we are bringing to market."