Jeep is exploring the opportunity to launch a new off-road-oriented SUV to rival the likes of Thar in the Indian market. Jeep’s Thar 5-Door Rival.
Jeep has been known for its off-road prowess and is one of the most popular choices in the lifestyle vehicle category worldwide. However, in India, the American SUV maker is surviving with minimal sales figures. This comes down to the fact that it is not playing in a very volume-intensive segment. The entry-level model is the Compass which starts from around Rs. 20 lakh (ex-showroom).
The lifestyle vehicle segment is currently booming in the country and the Thar is leading the segment. Maruti Suzuki Jimny is also a player in the lifestyle category, however, failed to make a significant mark in front of the Thar. The new Jeep’s Thar 5-Door rival SUV will be positioned above the brand’s upcoming Citroen C3-based mid-size SUV in the line-up. Expect it to carry a good price premium over the Thar, courtesy of the Jeep moniker’s brand value.
Also Read: Mahindra XUV300 Facelift Spied: Base, Mid, Top Variants Details
As per the reports, it will target the customers of the Thar with proper body-on-frame construction, 4X4 hardware with a low-range transfer case and a rugged stance. In terms of design, we can expect the design cues from the Wrangler and this is the point where it will hit the Thar. Coupled with the Jeep’s brand value and legacy of SUVs, it could be named Wrangler with a special suffix for the Indian market. This will help the American SUV maker establish a market sentiment for the SUV which is a must for the lifestyle category.
Under the hood, we can expect the familiar Fiat 2.0 litre turbo diesel engine putting out 170 bhp and 350 Nm of peak torque. This engine is currently doing its duty on the Jeep Compass and Meridian.
There are high chances that the Mini-Wrangler could be manufactured locally in India and will also serve as the export hub for other RHD markets.