Jeep Launch In India Pushed Back Again

2013 was supposed to be the year the iconic Jeep brand would make its appearance in India, but that never happened due to various reasons. We did not even get to see the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler SUVs at the Auto Expo last month, which was a real disappointment.

It was later told that the Jeep brand would finally be launched here towards the end of the first quarter of 2014. But once again, the dates have been postponed and it is now being said the launch will take place towards end of this year. Likely during the festive season, if it is launched that is.

It is likely that the recent formation of Fiat-Chrysler could be one of the reason for the delay. Nagesh Basavanhalli, President and MD, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles for India has also told ET that the market is not favourable for the launch of an important product such as the Jeep. He added that a decision will be made post the elections.

The first Jeep vehicles that are waiting to be launched in India are the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, which will be locally assembled. The new Jeep Renegade compact SUV will also make it to India, thought that will take another year at the very least.