Jeep is ready to expand its SUV portfolio in the Indian market. Speaking to an online media publication, Partha Datta, Managing Director, Jeep India has confirmed that the company will launch four new models in the next 18 months. The plan outlines the Jeep H6 7-seater SUV, new Grand Cherokee, a subcompact SUV and new Renegade. Jeep’s new three-row SUV will debut in late 2021 and its launch will happen in early 2022. The new Grand Cherokee will arrive in 2022, followed by a new sub-4 meter SUV.
The American carmaker recently introduced the updated Compass at a starting price of Rs 16.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The locally-assembled new Jeep Wrangler is slated to hit roads on 15th March 2021. As of now, Jeep has a big focus on localization of its two upcoming SUVs – Wrangler and Grand Cherokee. Both models’ CKD units will be assembled at the carmaker’s Ranjangaon plant. The company aims to assemble engines and axles fully at its local facility.
Localization will help the carmaker price its vehicles more competitively and reduce tax to bring down the cost of acquisition. With the portfolio expansion, Jeep expects to regain market share to its 2018 level by the end of 2022. The company will also expand its sales and service network by double folds over the next two year years.
Talking about the upcoming new Jeep subcompact SUV, the model is likely to be based on PSA’s CMP (Common Modular Platform) architecture. Citroen’s upcoming compact SUV will also underpin the same platform. One must note that PSA’s CMP architecture doesn’t support 4X4 drivetrain system. Powering the new compact Jeep SUV could be a 1.2L turbo petrol engine that will also be used in the Citroen C21.
More details on the new Jeep compact SUV are likely to be revealed in near future. Stay tuned to IndiaCarNews.
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