New compact Jeep to launch in 2015 with all-wheel drive and SUV-like styling
The upcoming baby Jeep model has entered its final stages of development ahead of its reveal at next week's Geneva motor show.
Developed alongside the Fiat 500X crossover, and sharing its underpinnings with that model, the baby Jeep is expected to go on sale in 2015. The new model was previously thought to use the Jeepster name, but Fiat-Chrysler boss Sergio Marchionne has now confirmed that won't be the case.
The new model gets a traditional Jeep front-end, and will use the firm's prominent bar grille; the new car is also set to get boxy, SUV-like proportions and large, square tail lights. Our first look at the interior of the new model reveals a large central screen for both infotainment and navigation functions.
Based on the SCCS platform, which also underpins the Vauxhall Corsa and Fiat Punto, the baby Jeep will get all-wheel drive and at least one version of the new car will be badged as "Trail Rated", suggesting significant off-road capabilities.
It's likely that both the new Jeep and the Fiat 500X will share their engine ranges. While any powertrain options have yet to be confirmed; reports suggest the two will use Fiat's 1.3-litre turbodiesel engine in Europe, possibly alongside a 0.9-litre turbocharged petrol unit. It'll face competition from established compact crossover models like the Nissan Juke when it goes on sale.
Fiat-Chrysler has high hopes for an expanded Jeep brand, forecasting annual sales of one million units this year. The brand is by far the most successful of the three marques making up Fiat-Chrysler's premium offerings, with Alfa Romeo and Maserati selling in far fewer numbers.
Both models will be built at Fiat's Melfi factory in Spain.
Read more Geneva motor show news. Reported by Autocar 4 hours ago.
The upcoming baby Jeep model has entered its final stages of development ahead of its reveal at next week's Geneva motor show.
Developed alongside the Fiat 500X crossover, and sharing its underpinnings with that model, the baby Jeep is expected to go on sale in 2015. The new model was previously thought to use the Jeepster name, but Fiat-Chrysler boss Sergio Marchionne has now confirmed that won't be the case.
The new model gets a traditional Jeep front-end, and will use the firm's prominent bar grille; the new car is also set to get boxy, SUV-like proportions and large, square tail lights. Our first look at the interior of the new model reveals a large central screen for both infotainment and navigation functions.
Based on the SCCS platform, which also underpins the Vauxhall Corsa and Fiat Punto, the baby Jeep will get all-wheel drive and at least one version of the new car will be badged as "Trail Rated", suggesting significant off-road capabilities.
It's likely that both the new Jeep and the Fiat 500X will share their engine ranges. While any powertrain options have yet to be confirmed; reports suggest the two will use Fiat's 1.3-litre turbodiesel engine in Europe, possibly alongside a 0.9-litre turbocharged petrol unit. It'll face competition from established compact crossover models like the Nissan Juke when it goes on sale.
Fiat-Chrysler has high hopes for an expanded Jeep brand, forecasting annual sales of one million units this year. The brand is by far the most successful of the three marques making up Fiat-Chrysler's premium offerings, with Alfa Romeo and Maserati selling in far fewer numbers.
Both models will be built at Fiat's Melfi factory in Spain.
Read more Geneva motor show news. Reported by Autocar 4 hours ago.
