US-based Jeep is planning to enter the mid-size SUV segment in the Indian automobile market. Jeep, which currently sells only expensive SUV models in India, is expected to launch this new mid-size SUV in 2025, which is slightly cheaper.
Jeep currently sells four SUV models in India namely Compass, Meridian, Wrangler and Grand Cherokee. The cheapest of these, the Compass model, starts at an ex-showroom price of Rs 20.69 lakh. Therefore, Jeep is planning to launch the newly developed mid-size SUV model at a price between Rs 15 lakh and Rs 18 lakh.
In the highly competitive midsize SUV segment in India, Jeep’s new midsize SUV will take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushak, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos and Volkswagen Ticoon.
Jeep has teamed up with Citroen to develop this new midsize SUV. Jeep plans to build its new midsize SUV on the same CMP platform that underpins Citroen’s C3 Aircross model. This platform is owned by Stellandis. It is noteworthy that both Jeep and Citron are operating under Stellandis.
In 5-seater and 7-seater options, Jeep is planning to build this midsize SUV with the look of a full-fledged SUV in Jeep’s flagship boxy design, with high ground clearance and a commanding driving position. It looks like the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine found in the Citroen C3 Aircross will also be offered in Jeep’s new midsize SUV. It is also expected to be an engine capable of churning out 109hp of power and 205Nm of torque. Both manual and automatic gearbox options are available.
Jeep is expected to make an official announcement about this new midsize SUV soon. The only thing that is certain is that the launch of this new car will not happen before 2025.