Jeep planning a new seven-seater SUV?

As the demand for SUVs globally is increasing, more and more manufacturers are focussing on multiple models of SUVs. Between all this, how can the original SUV maker – Jeep be left behind? Jeep is believed to be currently working on a new seven-seater SUV. As per the patent drawings leaked, this seven-seater SUV will have 3 rows of seats. This new SUV will probably be based on the Jeep Yuntu concept, showcased earlier this year at the Shanghai Auto Show. While Jeep has not confirmed this yet, it is widely believed that this seven-seater SUV will see the light soon.

The new Jeep SUV will be a long one, with a pretty long wheelbase as well. The patent drawings tell some tales about how the design of this new SUV will be. It shows larger overhangs for the vehicle as compared to the Jeep Yuntu concept. The design also reminds one of the Fiat Freemont SUV currently sold in some markets. The Yuntu Concept will be the base for the development of this SUV. It will also have a plug-in hybrid variant.  A few patent drawings were discovered in the database of Office for Harmonisation in Internal Market (OHIM). This is the authority for intellectual property rights in the European Union.

The front portion bears the signature Jeep grille and he headlamps resemble the Grand Cherokee. The front and rear bumpers are large ones. From the drawings, the SUV seems to be a large one, which can easily seat seven adults.

The Jeep Yuntu concept has been designed for the Chinese market and has a a plug-in hybrid as well.

SUVs are fast  growing vehicles in China and Jeep had displayed its prowess with the Yuntu concept, as bein ready for the Chinese market. The Yuntu seems more like a soft roader than a full-fledged SUV. It is focussed on urban buyers rather than off-road enthusiasts, which comprise of Jeep’s major customer base.

The new Jeep seven-seater will be an interesting vehicle and there are also chances of this full size SUV to make it to India.

Large affordable SUVs is what the market here demands and we reckon that Jeep is already thinking on those lines.

Currently FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) is focussing on growing the Jeep brand in India. The company has made heavy investments in its plant at Ranjangaon, Pune.

The Jeep Compass is the first locally produced Jeep in India and is also being exported to other right hand drive markets. There are plans to localize other models of Jeep.