Jeep is set to overhaul its European product lineup with the launch of three new models in the next four years, including two small crossovers developed specifically for the region and a new large SUV co-developed with Chinese firm Dongfeng. The three new cars, which will all be multi-energy models and have a four-wheel drive option, will sit alongside the existing Avenger compact crossover and mid-sized Compass, with the goal of helping the American brand substantially grow its European sales.
Jeep is part of the Stellantis empire and one of its four designated ‘global’ brands, which means it will take priority in terms of product investment. But while Jeep’s European strategy has previously focused on models taken from its core American range (joined by the occasional regional addition such as the Avenger), it will now develop a largely bespoke line-up – potentially with the Compass as its only model also sold in the US.
Fabio Catone, Jeep’s European boss, said that the three new arrivals would all build on the brand’s existing design pillars of capability, protection, and versatility, and offer 4x4 ability. He vowed they would represent what “makes a Jeep a Jeep, so the values, the product formula, the off-road heritage and our unique design language – at the end of the day, our identity”.
Jeep’s two new B-segment SUVs will sit above the existing Avenger, with one being described as "compact" and the other as "large". Catone said that while the Avenger is positioned to win over buyers of B-segment hatchbacks, the compact B-SUV will be “wider, much more SUV-style”, while the larger B-SUV will be closer in size to the C-segment, which means it will sit just below the existing Compass.
Both will sit on the new STLA One platform that Stellantis is introducing across its brands and both will be manufactured in Europe. Jeep has traditionally had mixed fortunes developing cars specifically for Europe: the Renegade compact SUV sold well but lacked the authentic off-road capability the brand was known for, while the Avenger is currently its best-seller and a former Car of the Year award winner.
“Jeep is a global brand with values that are shared all over the world,” said Catone. “The product formula is the same all over the world, but we are a global company with strong regional tools, and so we are developing a line-up that is strongly oriented to European customers’ needs.”
Source: autocar.co.uk
