Jeep India has recently unveiled an updated lineup of the Compass SUV model, along with the Meridian Overland Edition, in the country. The American SUV manufacturer is now aiming to venture into the electric vehicle space, currently in the process of evaluating various options before finalizing its strategy. Additionally, Jeep is aiming to achieve over 90 percent localization for the Compass SUV within the next three years. It’s worth noting that Jeep operates a 50:50 joint venture manufacturing facility with Tata Motors in Pune’s Ranjangaon.
Aditya Jairaj, Head of Jeep India Operations and Deputy Managing Director at Stellantis India, has disclosed that as part of Jeep’s long-term strategy, the company will place a strong emphasis on exports. Currently, the Jeep Compass and Meridian models are being exported from India to several developed markets, including Australia, Japan, and New Zealand. Jeep India’s product portfolio also features the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee SUVs.
In other developments, Jeep India is reportedly gearing up to enter the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment, challenging the dominance of the Hyundai Creta. Speculation is rife that this new contender could be the Jeep Avenger, equipped with a 110bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol engine paired with a manual gearbox and a front-wheel-drive system. The SUV can also be equipped with a 1.2L turbo petrol engine enhanced with mild hybrid technology, featuring a 54kWh battery pack. This setup delivers a maximum power of 156bhp and 260Nm of torque, and the electric version of the Avenger is expected to offer a range of approximately 400km on a single charge.
The Jeep Avenger will also boast Jeep’s Selec Terrain off-road modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow, and Mud. The SUV is built on the modular CMP platform and is said to offer impressive ground clearance, as well as good breakover and approach angles. In terms of features, it will come equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, rectangular AC vents, a digital driver’s display, adaptive cruise control, and more.
