India is an important market for Jeep. Last month, the company launched its 7-seater Meridian SUV, which makes India the first right-hand-drive market to get the all-new SUV. In addition to this, given there is a rising demand for compact SUVs in the market.
As of now, the South Korean twins Creta and Seltos dominate the segment in terms of sales. However, the segment is seeing an increase in the number of launches, such as the Volkswagen Taigun and the Skoda Kushaq. Maruti Suzuki and Toyota will also bring a new model to enter the lucrative segment.
We also know Jeep has a compact SUV in the pipeline made specifically for developing markets such as India. However, we now have new spy shots of a Jeep compact SUV that will use a modified version of the Renegade platform.
The single spy shot of the compact SUV has heavy camouflage. Hence, not much of the design is visible. However, one can see the squared-wheel arches and the upright stance of the car. The silhouette can’t be mistaken for anything but a Jeep. In fact, the compact SUV does look like a shrunken Jeep Compass.
As mentioned before, the new compact SUV will use the Renegade as its base platform. Last year, the Global Head of Jeep Design admitted that the upcoming compact SUV could come with an AWD drivetrain. He further added that they would not make a soft-roader SUV, as it isn’t in the Jeep’s tradition to do so. Jeep will instead engineer an off-road capable version, even if it means increasing input and research costs. If it does, it will most likely be the first compact SUV in its segment to get an AWD setup.
According to sources, there is a chance that Jeep could use an electrified powertrain. An electrified powertrain will also allow it to have an e-AWD system. Jeep already has such a setup on its Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe. Both these SUVs are Plug-in Hybrid SUVs. They use a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine powering the front wheels. They also feature an electric motor mounted on the rear axles. With the rear motor running, it provides AWD functionality. Depending on the variant, the engine and electric motor have a combined output of 190 HP or 240 HP.
Also Read: 2022 Jeep Meridian SUV launched in India at INR 29.9 lakh