The Jeep 551 is expected to debut at the 2016 Sao Paulo Auto Show. But its sales will not commence in India anytime before early 2017. This car is known as the C-SUV, the 551. Based on same front wheel drive platform that underpins the Fiat 500X and the Jeep Renegade, the 551 will be the replacement model for the Jeep Compass/Patriot models. The Jeep 551 has a scaled down Grand Cherokee in appearance. It has a soft roader butch looks rather than a hardcore Jeep like-look. According to the report, production of the Jeep 551 will commence on 30th January 2017. The Jeep C-SUV will be first built in Toluca, Mexico. Then the brand has the plans to extend the production to Brazil and China as well as in India, and the Tata-Fiat JV plant will be in Ranjangaon, Maharashtra in India.
This Jeep includes squared off wheel arches, mild body cladding, the signature Jeep grille and a kinked window line. It is expected to be launch with two engine options, powered by a 164 hp strong 2.0-liter petrol engine, along with 2.0-liter Multi Jet II diesel engine for 170 hp. It has a 6-speed manual and a 9-speed automatic transmission. Expect the Jeep 551 to take on the likes of the Ford Endeavour and the Toyota Fortuner when it launches. According to the latest news, FCA has invested $280 million on a line in Ranjangaon for manufacturing the vehicle, and India is likely to serve as a production hub for the RHD version.
