Filed under: Concept Cars, SUV, Geneva Motor Show, Jeep, Rumormill

Jeep CEO Mike Manley let word slip at Geneva that his company is looking at building a subcompact-sized B-segment SUV by 2013.

Manley said that Chrylser's partnership with Fiat would be critical to building the new car, as Jeep is looking at using Fiat's 1.6-liter and 1.3-liter JDTm diesels, as well as the 1.4-liter Multiair gasoline mill.

The package would likely be based on the Fiat Grande Punto, and most models would be front-wheel drive. Since this is a Jeep product, at least the top-of-the-line trim level would get four-wheel drive.

Expect the subcompact Jeep to be aimed at the Mini Cooper and the Audi A1, with a premium options list in a supermini. Despite targeting the premium hatchback market, the Jeep will carry at least a passing resemblance to the Wrangler, and won't totally abandon its rugged off-road ethos.

[Source: Autocar]Report: Jeep to build subcompact by 2013? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Mar 2011 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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