We got a chance to drive the latest small SUV from Jeep, the Renegade – a model being seriously considered for the Indian market.
Is it India-bound?
In light of the small SUV craze that’s really taken India by storm, the Jeep Renegade's launch would make perfect sense here. It certainly has what it takes to give other small SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster a good run for their money, if priced competitively. However, according to Jeep’s plan for the country, the first few models to hit our market will be the iconic Wrangler and the larger Grand Cherokee, both in CBU form. As mentioned earlier, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is setting up a plant in the country to make India a production and export hub for select Jeep models, including the upcoming Compass replacement (C-SUV). In that regard, there’s a good chance that even the Renegade will make its way into this plan. In addition, the Renegade for Europe is offered with a host of diesel engines, like the 2.0 diesel that delivers 142hp. It’s a car that has a lot to offer both in terms of capability as well as charm, and should easily appeal to not just Jeep lovers, but to those who aspire to own SUVs as well. Prices for the Renegade are likely to start at around Rs 11 lakh.