Jeep's small models to soldier on

Jeep will extend production of the Compass and Patriot into the 2017 model year as it prepares to build a successor in Mexico in early 2017, Automotive News has learned.

Output of the current Compass and Patriot at Fiat Chrysler’s Belvidere, Ill., plant is to end Dec. 23, according to sources. Meanwhile, North American production of the replacement for both models — the name of which hasn’t been announced — is to begin Jan. 30, 2017, in Toluca, Mexico, the sources said.

A spokesman for FCA declined to comment on future product plans.

The new model is to be revealed this summer in Brazil, where it will also be made.

Plans call for Belvidere to shut down for the annual holiday break and remain closed for retooling through May 14, 2017, sources said. On May 15, Belvidere will begin producing the Jeep Cherokee, which is moving from Toledo, Ohio, to make room for expanded production of the next-generation Jeep Wrangler and derivatives.

The moves are part of a broader FCA production shuffle set to continue through 2017 to increase the number of Jeep SUVs and Ram pickups produced and to decrease car output. FCA continues to seek a partner to build the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart.