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Super compact SUV on Jeep’s wish list

Jeep's comprehensive SUV range includes cars from small all the way through to large, but is yet to enter the super compact segment, which is something the brand is looking to change.


Speaking at the Los Angeles motor show, Mike Manley, head of Jeep, RAM and COO of the Asia Pacific region, spoke to journalists about the brand's ambitions for the coming years, detailing what he thinks is missing from the range.

"The Grand Cherokee doesn't suit every market, but there are two key markets around the world. The final area for me, for Jeep, is something we're looking at now — in some markets we're seeing strong emergence of an 'A' or a super compact SUV."

"Europe is one with all of the German and French manufacturers piling into it," Manley said.

The popularity of small SUVs in Europe has exploded and Jeep wants a slice of the pie. Small and compact SUVs in Europe are up by 28 per cent with over 150,000 additional sales during the first half of 2016.

Sales are split at the top between the Renault Captur, Opel Mokka (similar to the Holden Trax) and Peugeot 2008, meaning that Jeep could potentially swoop in with a compact SUV that also offers tangible off-road capability.

While Manley wouldn't commit to any targets or figures, Jeep now has manufacturing facilities in Brazil, Mexico, China and India, meaning that access to cheap production facilities with access to the European market is available.

On the larger side of SUVs, Manley also confirmed that the decision on a right-hand drive version of the Grand Wagoneer, which is due for release at the end of 2019, is imminent. Manley also expressed interest in a three-row version of the Grand Cherokee.

CarAdvice will keep you posted as more information comes to hand on a subcompact Jeep SUV.

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