Jeep C-SUV (Project 551) Spied In Brazil

Codenamed the Project 551, Jeep’s C-SUV prototype has been spotted by Autos Segredos while it was being test driven in Brazil.

The Cherokee is set to be the successor of both the Jeep Compass and Patriot because production for these models are set to end this December. Once released, the C-SUV will be positioned above the Renegade in Jeeps’ SUV lineup and below the Cherokee.

According to the Brazilian publication, Jeep is basing the C-SUV on the Fiat 500X and the Renegade platform so we can expect to see a 2.0-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel engine under the hood. More specifically, the South American-spec C-SUV will be offered with a 2.0-litre Tigershark flex-fuel engine capable of pushing out 159hp in the petrol variant or 164 hp with the ethanol version. Also offered is a 2.0-litre MultiJet II diesel engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Top of the line version will offered with a 4×4 system.

Even though most of the vehicle is under camouflage, we can still make out the general boxy shape known to Jeeps and the iconic grille with vertical slots. Besides its shape, we can clearly see the mule’s projector headlamps with integrated daytime running lights and LED taillights.

Expected to be unveiled at the Sao Paulo Motor Show in October this year, production of the new C-SUV will take place at FCA’s new Pernambuco assembly plant in Brazil and at the Fiat-Tata JV plant at Ranjangaon which will, be expanded for the new model.