The Jeep lineup could soon be expanding internationally by downsizing the brand's iconic looks and rugged persona for a sub-Renegade offering.
Jeep boss Mike Manley told Automotive News Europe that the brand is looking at the possibility of offering a Jeep smaller than the current Renegade. Jeep will sell the vehicle in markets that are more open to compact crossovers outside the US as such vehicles rarely sell well.
ANE reports suppliers for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles have been talking about producing such a vehicle since early 2017, specifically at the company's Pomigliano plant near Naples, Italy where the Fiat produces the Panda. Production for the next-generation Panda is moving from Pomigliano to Poland near the end of the decade.
FCA could build the small Jeep on its Mini platform, which also underpins the Panda, Fiat 500, and Lancia Ypsilon. The move of the Panda is making a case for a sub-Renegade Jeep offering along with Europe's growing demand for such vehicles. Before such a Jeep goes on sale, FCA will have to decide how to produce a capable SUV wrapped in such a small package that meets the brand's high standards for off-road capability. It will also have to fall in line with the Jeep's design ethos.
A decision from FCA on building such a Jeep could come as soon as June of this year when the automaker presents its 2018 to 2022 plan.
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