3 New Jeep SUVs For India Detailed

Jeep is working towards updating its product portfolio in India. MD and CEO of Stellantis India, Shailesh Hazela, recently disclosed Jeep’s plans of updating its product range more frequently, to fight dropping sales. The upcoming Jeep launches include updates of the current Compass and Meridian SUVs and an all-new sub-20 lakh SUV. Here is everything to know about these:

Updated Jeep Compass

The Compass is an important model for Jeep in India. It is slated for an update in September. No confirmed details of changes are known yet. However, considering the segment benchmarks and market demands, Jeep could add more features and tech to the updated Compass. Recent spy shots suggest that the upcoming SUV could get redesigned bumpers, slightly different fog lamps, and possibly new wheels.

The new Compass will retain the current 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, which delivers 170 bhp and 350 Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include manual and automatic gearboxes. The Compass used to have a 1.4L petrol engine that was discontinued during the BS6 phase 2 transition. Jeep is rumoured to be working on a new 1.3-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, able to produce 150bhp and 270Nm. This engine is currently used in models like the Renegade in many international markets.

Jeep Meridian Facelift

Following the Compass, Jeep will introduce the facelifted Meridian in October 2024. The Meridian facelift (or the Meridian 2.0 as Jeep calls it) will share the same engine options as the updated Compass but will feature a nine-speed automatic gearbox and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The facelift will retain the moniker’s core design and shape. Spy shots suggest that it could get subtle updates including a slightly revised grille, upgraded LED headlamps and DRLs, a new front bumper with silver accents, new tail lamps, redesigned alloy wheels, and a radar module on the bumper. This hints at the possibility of Jeep adding an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite to the new Meridian.

Spy pictures of the interior suggest minimal visual changes incoming. The cabin will continue to feature a 10.1-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. It will also have dual-zone climate control, a 360-degree camera, and selectable drive modes. Although the pictures concealed the upholstery, it’s likely that Jeep will update the colour scheme to bring about a refreshed look. Rumour has it that features like front and rear dashcams and an air purifier could be introduced on the facelift.

New Jeep SUV Under Rs 20 Lakh

Jeep is also planning to enter the sub-20 lakh segment in India with a new SUV, in 2026. This upcoming product is expected to be built on the Common Modular Platform (CMP) that underpins the Citroen C3 Aircross and Basalt coupe. It will likely compete with Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos,  and Tata Curvv.

Jeep’s new SUV will likely compete with popular midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Tata Curvv. Despite its lower price point, the SUV is expected to retain Jeep’s signature features, possibly including AWD or 4×4 technology. The new model is anticipated to be a global product, not just limited to the Indian market, with multiple variations being considered based on the Citroen platform.

Jeep’s Proposed Plan For Sales Revival

The decline in sales for Jeep is primarily attributed to the absence of regular updates within its product lineup. Having realised this, Shailesh Hazela said in a statement “You will see [updated] models starting next month with Compass. We will introduce Meridian 2.0 in October. We’ve learned that the Indian market demands frequent updates. Unlike the European market, where updates occur every 18-24 months, in India, we need to introduce new features every six months.”

This shift towards more frequent product updates will be specifically tailored to meet Indian consumer preferences and will be realised through Stellantis’ local research and development network. Jeep’s strategy for reviving sales is heavily centred on the Compass and Meridian. The brand also seems to be eyeing good numbers during the forthcoming festive season.