Jeep Compass and Patriot become single, Fiat-based model in 2014

By John LeBlanc How small can a Jeep be before it’s not a Jeep? That’s the question that will be asked when a new, subcompact Jeep that’s due to replace both the current Compass and Patriot models arrives in 2014. According to a report from Edmunds, Fiat’s Jeep brand will launch a new, global crossover in 2014. The as-yet-unnamed model will be smaller than the new-for-2014 compact Cherokee that is replacing the Liberty. As as a subcompact crossover, the new Jeep will be entering one of the fastest-growing new car segments in the world. When it goes on-sale some time in 2014, the new Jeep will compete against a large range of rivals globally, including the Chevrolet Trax/Buick Encore, Mini Countryman, Mitsubishi RVR, Nissan Juke and Subaru XV Crostrek here in Canada. (As well, Ford is seriously considering its subcompact Fiesta-based EcoSport crossover for sale in the U.S. and Canada, and Honda is likely to launch a small crossover based on the next-generation Fit subcompact.) While the new mini-Jeep will surely be a sales hit in foreign markets, it may meet some resistance in North America. The Jeep brand is heavily based on its American heritage, dating back to the original Willys models used by the U.S. armed forces in World War II. Like the new Cherokee, the smaller subcompact model will be based on Fiat mechanicals, likely the same, Fiat Panda platform that also underpins the just launched 2014 Fiat 500L.But while the Cherokee is being built in the U.S., the smaller subcompact model will be made in Italy. Moreover, unlike the rest of the Jeep lineup, the new cute-ute will be targeted at urban drivers, not Rubicon Trail-ready off-roaders. So how much of a chance is Jeep taking with its Italian-inspired mini-Jeep? Good question. Because while the current Jeep Compass/Patriot have been rightly criticised for their lack of quality and rough-hewn driving characteristics, they still sell reasonably well. In Canada last year, the pair of compact Jeeps accounted for 12,670 in sales— more than the Juke and RVR combined. What do you think? Do you feel North American buyers will go for an Italian-made mini-Jeep that’s better suited for a Starbucks drive-thru than a mud bog? Or are today’s buyers looking for the Jeep badge and nothing else? Source: Edmunds

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