Another day, another piece of news about a new crossover. This time, Jeep takes its turn in the spotlight with plans to launch a new model that would sit below the Renegade, making it Jeep’s new entry-level offering. Word of this development comes from Jeep CEO Mike Manley, who admitted that the prospect of an even smaller car than the Renegade is an appealing proposition, especially in markets like Europe and Latin America.

Jeep CEO Mike Manley wasn't coy or evasive about it. When asked about Jeep’s plans, Manley gave as direct an answer as he could give. “A smaller car than the Renegade is very interesting to us, and we are actively looking at the project now,” he said.

If you’re concerned about Jeep flooding the market with SUVs, don’t be. Manley explained that if a new baby Jeep were to arrive, it would only be sold in specific markets, specifically Europe and Latin America. “We’ve seen the general move in Europe towards smaller SUVs, and there could also be a market in Latin America,” he noted. The observation has weight to it because crossovers have become the rage in those two markets. Having an entry-level Jeep in those places could help bolster Jeep’s brand in places where it doesn’t hold as big of a market sway as it does in the U.S. and China.

Speaking of which, if Jeep decides to give the thumbs-up on the project, don’t expect it to be sold in China, regardless of how big the crossover and SUV market is there. Apparently, a baby Jeep would hold a distinct disadvantage because the demand for crossovers and small SUVs in the country are focused more on local brands and manufacturers that offer strong value and cheaper costs. Previous reports also indicated that a baby Jeep to sit below the Wrangler is out of the question in the U.S.

Regardless of where it ends up, the new entry-level Jeep will more than likely use the same architecture that is used in the next-generation Fiat Panda. Should that be the case, the most likely scenario would see Jeep develop its own body and interior and place on top of the same running gear that the Panda has.

As little as we know now, everything will come to light on June 1, 2018. That's when FCA chief Sergio Marchionne will announce the five-year plans for each of FCA’s brands, including Jeep. Who knows, we might even hear the man talk about the next-generation Patriot.

References

Read our full speculative review on the 2019 Jeep C-Segment CUV.

Read our full review on the 2019 Jeep Renegade.

Read more Jeep news.