Jeep has apparently taken its masked seven-seater SUV for Brazil out for a round of tests.
The car comes based on the Compass platform, but sources are reporting that it will feature its own design and name, which will not be “Grand Compass” as expected earlier. Its wheelbase and rear overhang will become longer to accommodate the third row of seats, while the middle row will be foldable and movable in both directions.
The interior will resemble that of the facelifted Compass model that debuted in China not long ago (watch the video for a brief look). It will most likely get the same steering wheel, infotainment system and digital gauge cluster.
As far as powertrains are concerned, the likeliest options include a 2.0-liter Multijet turbo diesel rated at 200 hp (150 kW) and a 1.3-liter gasoline turbo good for 180 hp (134 kW). The former should ship with a nine-speed automatic transmission, while the latter should come bundled with a CVT and only support FWD.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles says the new SUV will count among the company’s most intricately designed vehicles produced in Brazil. It will hit the assembly lines at the same factory where the Jeep Compass and Renegade and the Fiat Toro are currently produced.
The launch is expected in the second half of 2021. India will be the next in line to receive the SUV after South America, while the other markets may or may not get it.