Jeep Ponders Sub-Renegade Crossover

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV’s Jeep unit is considering a mini-size crossover vehicle that would be positioned below the current Renegade SUV.  

Jeep boss Mike Manley tells Autocar Jeep is building a business case for such a vehicle and is confident that B-segment models will be “viable” for the company in the future. He emphasizes that any entry in the category would be designed and engineered for proper ground clearance and have the ability to meet Jeep’s demanding off-road requirements.

Manley didn't say when a decision would be made about the new vehicle or when it could be launched. Previous media reports have indicated Jeep is developing an entry-level model for India. It isn’t clear if Manley was referring to that program or a new vehicle for global markets.

Jeep introduced the hot-selling Renegade in Europe and the U.S. in late 2014 and early 2015, respectively. That vehicle shares a platform with the Fiat 500X.