Jeep has made a big decision to develop a new generation SUV, which should be available in India by 2027. This new vehicle, expected to be a revamped version of the Jeep Renegade, will be built on Citroen’s Common Modular Platform (CMP). The shift to the CMP aims to offer a cost-effective solution for the Indian market, with prices estimated to range between Rs 15-20 lakh.
New Platform for Cost Efficiency
During a recent investor presentation, Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, confirmed the development of this new model. The decision to utilize Citroen’s CMP marks a strategic change from the previously planned STLA Small platform. Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares highlighted the benefits of the CMP, noting its global sourcing capabilities and cost competitiveness, particularly advantageous in markets like India.
The CMP platform, already used in the Citroen C3 range in India, supports simpler and more economical solutions. This change aligns with the company's goal to offer an affordable yet robust SUV to Indian consumers.
Electric 4x4 Model on the Horizon
In addition to the traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) models, Jeep is also planning an all-electric 4x4 variant of the new Renegade. Priced under USD 25,000 (approximately Rs 20.8 lakh), this electric model reflects the brand's commitment to maintaining its off-road capabilities while adapting to modern, eco-friendly technologies.
The CMP platform, initially not designed for ICE 4x4 configurations, has been modified into what Stellantis calls the Smart Car Platform. This adaptation allows the platform to support electric 4x4 variants, ensuring that Jeep’s legacy of rugged, all-terrain vehicles continues.
Benefits of a Common Platform
Adopting the CMP brings several advantages, primarily in terms of cost savings. The shared platform will enable both Jeep and Citroen to benefit from economies of scale, reducing the costs of key components like powertrains, electronics, and suspension systems. This cost-efficiency is crucial for pricing the new SUV competitively in the Indian market, with an expected starting price of around Rs 15 lakh.
The upgraded E/E (electrical/electronic) architecture is another significant benefit. This system, which manages the vehicle's electronics and onboard technology, is likely to support advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that are increasingly popular in India.
Powertrain Options for the New Renegade
The new Renegade is expected to feature a more powerful engine than the Citroen C3 models. While the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine used in the C3 is considered underpowered for a Jeep, the Renegade will likely utilize the EP6DT 1.6-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine. Developed jointly by BMW and PSA, this engine offers multiple power outputs. The most probable option for the Renegade is a 150hp unit, although a more potent 180hp version might also be considered.
India Launch Plans
Initially, there were plans to introduce the current Renegade in India, given its similarities to the Compass in terms of platform and size. However, this was deemed impractical due to overlapping price points with the Compass. The new Renegade, built on the CMP, offers a fresh opportunity to capture the Indian market without these constraints.
While Stellantis has not made an official announcement regarding the launch, their statement emphasized a strong commitment to the Indian market. India remains the only country outside the USA where Jeep assembles and produces four nameplates locally, highlighting the strategic importance of this market to the brand.
In Conclusion, Jeep’s decision to develop a new SUV based on Citroen’s CMP is a strategic move to offer a competitively priced, feature-rich vehicle in India. With an all-electric 4x4 variant and advanced technologies, the new Renegade aims to cater to the evolving preferences of Indian consumers. The anticipated launch in 2027 could mark a significant milestone for Jeep in India, leveraging cost efficiencies and modern engineering to deliver a compelling product in the mid-range SUV segment.
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