Indian car buyers are now opting for sub-4 meter SUVs over the premium hatchbacks and sub-4 meter sedans. Most of the auto makers are offering a product in this segment; however, Jeep and Honda are not having any presence in the fast growing sub-4 meter SUV segment. Things are expected to change, as Jeep and Honda are developing new SUVs measuring under 4 meters.
Jeep Compact SUV
American SUV maker, Jeep has confirmed that an all-new sub-4 meter SUV for the growing markets including India. The new model is reportedly to be based on the Groupe PSA’s CMP (Common Modular Platform), which will also underpin the upcoming Citroen C21 sub-4 meter SUV. The new model is expected to be introduced in the mid-2022. Not just platform, the upcoming Jeep compact SUV could also use locally sourced engine from Citroen. It is expected to be equipped with a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that will debut in the Citroen C21. This engine is expected to produce around 130bhp.
Both manual and automatic version will be on offer. It could be the smallest and the only SUV in its category to offer AWD (All-Wheel-Drive) system in India. The Jeep compact SUV will be produced at FCA’s Ranjangaon based plant, which currently produces the Compass. This plant will also serve as production hub for the new Jeep small SUV.
Honda ZR-V
Japanese automaker, Honda is also working on a new sub-4 meter SUV for the Indian market. Rumoured to be called the Honda ZR-V, the new model is expected to be launched by June 2022. The compact SUV is most likely to be based on the new Amaze platform, which is versatile enough to accommodate different body styles and engines.
The small SUV will be launched in India to rival the Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and the Mahindra XUV300. The new Honda ZR-V is reportedly to be powered by a new 1.0-litre VTEC turbocharged petrol engine that also powers the 5th generation City in Thailand and Civic in Europe. This engine is capable of producing 129PS of power and 180Nm of torque. The City’s unit offers 121bhp and 180Nm of torque. Both manual and CVT automatic gearbox options will be on offer.
