India-bound Jeep C-SUV (Jeep 551) snapped minutes before boarding aircraft - Spied

11/12/2015 - 12:18 Jeep 551, Spy pictures, Jeep Anjan Ravi

Reported to be based on the Renegade's platform.

A reader of Autos Segredos snapped this image of the Jeep C-SUV (codenamed Jeep 551) while it was being loaded onto an aircraft somewhere in South America. The report states that the prototype is being shipped overseas for testing purposes.

Jeep 551 Jeep C-SUV snapped air cargo — The powertrain configuration will include a 9-speed AT and a 4WD system as standard, reportedly.

The Jeep 551 is the replacement for the Jeep Patriot and Compass models. Reported to be based on the Renegade's platform, the SUV is significant for FCA India which plans to manufacture and export the model from the Ranjangaon plant. According to reports, FCA India will manufacture the 551 for right-hand drive markets like Australia, South Africa and Asian markets.

Under the hood, the Jeep 551 is expected to be powered by four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The petrol unit from the Tigershark family will produce around 164 hp, whereas the MultiJet diesel 2.0-liter engine will develop close to 170 hp. Paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission, a 4WD system will be standard across the range.

2015 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk front three quarter at the IAA 2015 — Slotting above the Renegade, the C-SUV will replace the Patriot and Compass models in Jeep's portfolio.

Also read: Jeep Renegade ‘Night Eagle’ edition shown at 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show

Reports state that the Jeep 551 will enter production towards early-2017 in India, though its design could be revealed via a concept at one of the major American motorshows next year. Prior to its launch in India, FCA India will introduce the Jeep brand via the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee models.

Jeep Renegade - Image Gallery (Unrelated)