Jeep entry-level model to receive Laredo nameplate - report

2015 Jeep entry-level crossover spy photo [22nd Jan, 2014] / SB-Medien

To be the first Jeep built outside U.S.

Two industry sources cited by Automotive News Europe have revealed Jeep's upcoming entry-level model will receive the "Laredo" moniker.

Up until now we referred to Jeep's new model as the "Jeepster" and "Junior" but it seems in the end the car will be sold with the "Laredo" nameplate and will be the company's first ever model to be produced outside United States. The vehicle will be assembled at Fiat's Melfi factory in Italy where its 500X cousin will also be manufactured.

The boxy-shaped Jeep Laredo will allegedly make its public debut next month at the 84^th edition of the Geneva Motor Show and is slated to go on sale in Europe this summer while United States will get it later this year. The same report mentions Fiat's 500X will be unveiled in October at the Paris Motor Show and will go on sale in Europe late this year and early 2015 for the U.S. market.

Jeep's Laredo will be approximately 4250mm (167 inches) long and will be available exclusively with a four-wheel drive layout. Power will come from a variety of gasoline and diesel engines and there will also be a trail-rated variant. The Fiat 500X will have roughly the same size and will be offered in a more affordable version with front-wheel drive.

It is believed Fiat will publish the first images of the 500X on July 4 when the company will celebrate the 57^th anniversary of the original 500 launch. This model will serve as a replacement for the unpopular Sedici built in Hungary by Suzuki.