Fiat to build new compact Jeep SUV in India

Fiat intends to manufacture the smaller Jeep SUV in India for the right-hand drive markets. Codenamed ‘C SUV’, the vehicle is a sub-Rs 15 lakh model that will be launched here by mid-2017.

While our guess is that FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) may consider building the Jeep Renegade in India, the officials say that this will be an all-new right-hand-drive vehicle. The vehicle will ideally be based on the Fiat 500x platform with five seats and will compete with the Hyundai Creta and Renault Duster in India.

Fiat may consider getting the 1.6-litre multijet diesel engine, which has a power output of 120bhp and 300Nm, for the new SUV. India will be the manufacturing hub for this Jeep and it will be exported to RHD countries like South Africa, UK and Australia among others.

FCA will introduce the Jeep brand in India at the coming Auto Expo in February. The company will start operations with Grand Cherokee and Wrangler SUVs, which will be imported to India as CBUs from the United States.