The American SUV manufacturer currently has three offerings in its Indian product portfolio – Jeep Compass, Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Cherokee. While the Wrangler and Cherokee SUVs failed to meet the carmaker’s expectations, the Compass gathered decent volume in its initial phase. With the arrival of Tata Harrier and MG Hector, the competition gets fierce and the Compass started losing its grounds.
Aiming to strengthen its market, the company is now planning to launch three new SUVs in the Indian market. The carmaker will enter into the subcompact SUV, mid-size SUV and 7-seater premium SUV segments. Besides this, Jeep will give a mid-life update to the Compass SUV sometime next year.
1. Jeep Low-D
The Jeep 7-seater SUV (codenamed – Jeep Low-D) will be the first one to hit Indian shores. The model will underpin the Compass’ monocoque platform, but it will be longer in length and has an additional third row of seats. Its wheelbase will also be increased to balance the extra length.
If reports are to be believed, the new Jeep 7-seater SUV will be offered with FCA’s familiar 2.0L diesel engine that also does duty in the Jeep Compass. Though, the carmaker might calibrate the motor for higher state of tune. While a 6-speed manual gearbox will come with 2WD or 4WD, a 9-speed automatic transmission will be available with 4WD system only. The Jeep Low-D will take on the cars like Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour and the upcoming MG Gloster.
2. New Jeep Renegade
The next-generation Jeep Renegade will also make its way to India sometime in 2022. A high degree of localization will help the carmaker achieve competitive pricing and put it up squarely at the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. In India, the Renegade is likely to be offered with a 1.4L turbo petrol and a 2.0L diesel engine. Though, their power outputs might be different. There might be two gearboxes on offer – a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
3. Jeep 526
Jeep India aims to foray into the highly-competitive subcompact SUV space with an all-new model (codenamed – Jeep 526) in 2022. It’s likely to be based on the new-generation Fiat Panda and 500’s platform and will have the brand’s signature SUV-ish design and off-road capabilities. The small Jeep SUV might derive its power from a 1.3L turbo petrol engine delivering two state of tunes – 130bhp and 150bhp. A diesel powertrain might also be on offer.
