Jeep 551 (Jeep C-SUV) spied by an IAB Reader in Michigan - Spied

Could launch at the 2016 New York International Auto Show.

Jeep will be introducing a new compact crossover this year as the second generation model of the Jeep Compass or Jeep Patriot. Weeks ahead of its expected world debut at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, the crossover has been spied testing outside FCA US headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan by IAB reader Daryl.

Developed under the codename 'Jeep 551' and commonly referred to as the 'Jeep C-SUV', the sub-Cherokee model will have a design and styling similar to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, as previewed in the below rendering. The Jeep 551 will be based on a modified version of the Jeep Renegade’s small-wide front-wheel drive platform.

The Jeep 551 will be available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive layouts. Engine choices are expected to be the ~164 hp 2.0-liter Tigershark petrol and ~170 hp 2.0-liter MultiJet II diesel. Transmission choices should include 6-speed manual and 9-speed automatic.

The Jeep C-SUV will be built in at least three different locations globally, one in the Americas which will roll-out the very first units, one in China for domestic consumption and one in India at the Tata-FIAT JV plant in Ranjangaon, Maharashtra for RHD markets. The Jeep 551 will likely go on sale in first markets in late 2016 as a 2017 model, and will reportedly be christened either Compass or Patriot.